In cognitive psychology, basic-level categories are characterized by which of the following traits?

• A. They are abstract categories that are difficult for people to recognize or name.
• B. They are the most inclusive categories that still share common features among members.
• C. They are the most specific categories, distinguishing individual items.
• D. They are the level at which category members share the most attributes and are most easily named.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of categorization in cognitive psychology, which involves grouping objects or ideas based on shared features.
2. Recognize that categories can be organized hierarchically into three levels: superordinate (most general), basic (intermediate), and subordinate (most specific).
3. Identify that basic-level categories are the level at which members share many common attributes, making them easier for people to recognize and name compared to more abstract or more specific categories.
4. Note that superordinate categories are broader and more abstract, often harder to visualize or name quickly, while subordinate categories are very specific and detailed.
5. Conclude that basic-level categories strike a balance by being specific enough to share many features but general enough to be easily and quickly identified and named by people.