Automatic/Control Processing and Attention

Automatic/controlled processing theory is reviewed with emphasis on applications to research on attention. Automatic/controlled processing theory assumes that human performance is the result of two qualitatively different processes; automatic and controlled processing. Automatic processing is a fast, parallel process not limited by short term memory. Automatic processing uses little subject effort, permits little direct subject control, but requires extensive and consistent training to develop. Controlled processing is a comparatively slow, serial process limited by short term memory. Controlled processing requires subject effort, permits a large degree of subject control, but needs little training to develop. Attention paradigms discussed include selective attention, focused attention, and attentional capacity. Conclusions from the application of automatic and controlled processing determines performance; paradigms suggest that: (1) performance differs to the degree that automatic or controlled processing determines performance; (2) performance improves with extensive consistent practice; (3) automatic processes are difficult to control; and (4) capacity reductions primarily harm controlled processing. The development of automatic processing is examined, and performance is seen to improve as a function of consistent executions.