attention: Quick Facts

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Nov. 12, 2026

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Scientists discover hidden brain changes linked to common sleep disorders • Nov. 7, 2026, 11:49 PM ET (Science Daily)

Scientists discover a hidden messaging system deep inside the brain • Oct. 23, 2026, 4:30 AM ET (Science Daily)

Facts

Also Known As	concentration • interest

Photos and Videos

Diagram of the autonomic nervous system showing the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. The left side illustrates sympathetic nerves branching from the spinal cord to organs and glands, while the right side shows parasympathetic nerves connecting to organs such as the eye, heart, lungs, liver, stomach, intestines, and bladder. Color-coded pathways and labeled ganglia highlight the different nerve routes and target organs in human anatomy.

How does multitasking affect the human brain?

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Topics

automatic attention two-process theory of attention discrepancy principle vigilance focal attention automatic detection controlled search filter theory of selective attention Von Restorff effect apperception philosophy of mind human intelligence memory thought dream psychology creativity hypnosis genius learning

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