AUDITORY CONTEXT AND ATTENTION BIAS: A STUDY OF THREATENING INFORMATION

Abstract

The human visual system's inherent limitation in processing resources necessitates the selective prioritization of information for cognitive processing. This selective attention mechanism, orchestrated by the brain's attention control system, enables individuals to sift through and integrate pertinent information while suppressing irrelevant stimuli. However, the intriguing phenomenon of uncontrolled attention bias towards certain stimuli, particularly those perceived as threatening, has captured the interest of researchers due to its early emergence in infancy and heightened manifestation when individuals encounter menacing information.

Threatening information, with its capacity to evoke negative emotions like anxiety and fear, has been a fundamental component of human survival and evolutionary development. The rapid detection and response to threats have conferred adaptive advantages, prompting individuals to exhibit a preference for processing such stimuli across various contexts. This preference for threat information processing has deep roots in human evolution.

While previous research has extensively explored the intrinsic and personal traits contributing to attention bias, situational factors, and the influence of external stimuli have received comparatively less attention. The role of auditory information, particularly music, in modulating attention has been a subject of investigation, with evidence suggesting that it significantly impacts attentional processes. However, the specific influence of different types of auditory backgrounds on attention bias towards threatening information remains an understudied area.

The present study aims to investigate how distinct categories of background sounds affect individuals' attention bias towards threatening information. By combining visual and auditory stimuli, participants will be exposed to various scenarios while concurrently being subjected to three types of background sounds: threatening, peaceful, and no sound. Unlike previous research, this study employs eye-tracking technology to obtain precise and quantitative measurements of participants' visual attention. This innovative methodological approach promises a more comprehensive understanding of participants' attention patterns and their responses to threatening information in diverse auditory contexts.

The study's primary objective is to unravel the intricate interplay between auditory stimuli and visual stimuli in shaping attention biases. By examining this interplay, the research offers the potential to yield valuable insights into the field of attention research. Furthermore, the findings may have practical applications in multiple domains, such as optimizing the design of engaging and effective multimedia experiences.