A Decline in Sensory Responsiveness That Occurs When a Stimulus

question 111

Multiple Choice

A decline in sensory responsiveness that occurs when a stimulus is unchanging or repetitive is called _______________.

• A) the difference threshold
• B) psychophysics
• C) sensory adjustment
• D) sensory adaptation

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Definitions:

Reproductive Success

The degree to which an organism passes on its genes to the next generation, often measured by the number of offspring that survive to reproduce.

Sexual Dimorphism

A difference in form between males and females of a species, including color, body size, and the presence or absence of structures used in courtship displays (elaborate tail plumes, ornaments, pigmented skin patches) or in contests (antlers, tusks, spurs, horns).

Sexual Selection Theory

A concept in evolutionary biology suggesting that certain traits evolve to increase an individual's chances of mating, as opposed to natural selection which focuses on survival.

Mate Guarding

A behavioral strategy used by individuals within species to protect their mating partner from mating with rivals, thus securing paternity.