Signal detection theory suggests that sensing is influenced by what factors?

Signal detection theory posits that the process of sensing a stimulus is not purely a matter of detecting physical signals but is also significantly influenced by non-sensory factors. These include the individual's past experiences, expectations, and even context in which the stimulus is encountered. For instance, a person's previous experiences with similar stimuli can shape how they respond to detection tasks; someone who has encountered certain signals frequently may be better at recognizing them due to a heightened expectation.

Moreover, expectations can alter perception, leading a person to react differently to the same stimulus under varying conditions. For example, if someone expects a signal to be present due to prior knowledge or a specific context, they may be more likely to detect it, even in noisy environments. Thus, the incorporation of cognition into the sensory process underscores how subjective factors play a crucial role, thereby affirming the correctness of the chosen answer.