In cognitive psychology, which of the following best describes active scanning?

• A. A type of memory distortion caused by misleading information.
• B. A process in which an individual deliberately searches their environment or memory for specific information.
• C. A method of encoding information through repetition.
• D. A passive process where information is absorbed without conscious effort.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the term 'active scanning' within the context of cognitive psychology. It refers to a deliberate and conscious process.
2. Step 2: Recognize that active scanning involves intentionally searching either the environment or one's memory to find specific information, rather than passively receiving information.
3. Step 3: Differentiate active scanning from other processes such as memory distortion (which involves errors in memory), encoding through repetition (which is a method of learning), and passive absorption (which lacks conscious effort).
4. Step 4: Identify that the key characteristic of active scanning is the purposeful and focused search for information, highlighting the active engagement of cognitive resources.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description of active scanning is 'a process in which an individual deliberately searches their environment or memory for specific information.'