In cognitive psychology, what does the term 'selective exposure' refer to?

• A. The ability to recall information that was learned recently more easily than information learned earlier.
• B. The phenomenon of forgetting information due to interference from new memories.
• C. The process of dividing attention between multiple tasks at the same time.
• D. The tendency to seek out information that supports one's existing beliefs while avoiding information that contradicts them.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that 'selective exposure' is a concept in cognitive psychology related to how individuals process information.
2. Recognize that selective exposure involves a preference or tendency in the way people choose what information to pay attention to.
3. Identify that this tendency means people are more likely to seek out information that confirms their existing beliefs or attitudes.
4. Note that, conversely, selective exposure also involves avoiding or ignoring information that contradicts or challenges those beliefs.
5. Summarize that selective exposure helps explain why people might reinforce their current viewpoints and resist changing their opinions despite new evidence.