Describe five ways that one's perceptual accuracy can be enhanced

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer will include any five of the following seven ways to enhance perceptual accuracy: (1) Remember that perceptions are constructions of reality. Learn to regularly question your own perceptions. Ask yourself, "Could another interpretation fit the facts? What assumptions am I making? How might my assumptions be distorting my perceptions?" (2) Break perceptual habits and interrupt habituation.
Each day, try to get away from habitual, top-down processing and do some activities in new ways. For example, take different routes when you travel to work or school. Do routines, such as brushing your teeth or combing your hair, with your nonpreferred hand. Try to look at friends and family members as if they are persons you just met for the first time. (3) Seek out-of-the-ordinary experiences. The possibilities here range from trying foods you don't normally eat to reading opinions very different from your own. Visiting new places or taking a quiet walk to reflect on one's thoughts can be refreshing. (4) Beware of perceptual sets. Anytime you pigeonhole people, objects, or events, there is a danger that your perceptions will be distorted by expectations or preexisting categories. It is important to be wary of labels and stereotypes. It is better to try to see people as individuals and events as unique, one-time occurrences. (5) Be aware of the ways in which motives and emotions influence perceptions. It is difficult to avoid being swayed by your own interests, needs, desires, and emotions. But be aware of this trap and actively try to see the world through the eyes of others. Taking the other person's perspective is especially valuable in disputes or arguments. Ask yourself, "How does this look to her or him?" (6) Make a habit of engaging in reality testing. Actively look for additional evidence to check the accuracy of your perceptions. Ask questions, seek clarifications, and find alternate channels of information. Remember that perception is not automatically accurate. (7) Pay attention. The key to dishabituation (taking a fresh look at the world) is to pay attention. Thus, one should make a conscious effort to pay attention to other people and your surroundings. Don't drift through life in a haze. Listen to others with full concentration. Watch their facial expressions. Make eye contact. Try to get in the habit of approaching perception as if you are going to have to testify in court later about what you saw and heard.