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How to Create and Use Binocular Rivalry
Published on: November 10, 2010
Wishful seeing: more desired objects are seen as closer.
Emily Balcetis1, David Dunning
1Ohio University, USA. emilybalcetis@nyu.edu
Psychological Science
|April 29, 2010
Summary
Our perception of the environment is not objective. We tend to perceive desirable objects, like a water bottle when thirsty, as closer to us than less desirable ones.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Environmental Psychology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- People generally believe their perception of the environment is objective.
- Internal states may influence how individuals perceive their surroundings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if internal goal states affect the perception of environmental objects.
- To determine if desirable objects are perceived as closer than less desirable objects.
Main Methods:
- Five experiments were conducted.
- Participants' perception of object distance was measured through verbal reports and behavioral tasks (e.g., beanbag throwing).
- Objects varied in desirability based on immediate goals (thirst, monetary gain, favorable feedback).
Main Results:
- Perceivers consistently judged desirable objects as physically closer than less desirable objects.
- This biased distance perception was evident in both self-reports and actions.
- Behavioral data, such as underthrowing a beanbag, supported the biased perception.
Conclusions:
- Perception of the natural environment is influenced by an individual's internal goal states.
- Perceiving desirable objects as closer may serve a self-regulatory function.
- This mechanism energizes individuals to approach objects that meet their needs and goals.
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