Definition of Attention

Notice:Attention refers to the capability to selectively concentrate on a particular stimulus, maintain that focus, and shift it as needed. Essentially, it is the power of concentration. In his work "Principles of Psychology" (1890), William James famously wrote, "Everyone knows what attention is. It is the mind's possession of one clear and vivid object or train of thought among several that seem simultaneously possible... It involves withdrawing from some things to effectively engage with others, contrasting sharply with a state of confusion or scatterbrained distraction."Attention plays a crucial role in the learning process. Individuals learn most effectively when they are fully attentive. A lack of attention can often be an indicator of behavioral issues in children, such as ADHD, as well as various learning disorders.

Medical Definition & Meaning