In cognitive psychology, information processing that is guided by higher-level mental processes, such as prior knowledge and expectations, is called:

• A. Parallel processing
• B. Top-down processing
• C. Bottom-up processing
• D. Serial processing

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key terms related to information processing in cognitive psychology: 'Top-down processing' and 'Bottom-up processing'.
2. Recognize that 'Bottom-up processing' refers to processing sensory information as it comes in, starting from the stimulus and moving upward to higher cognitive functions.
3. Know that 'Top-down processing' involves using prior knowledge, expectations, and higher-level mental processes to interpret and guide perception and understanding.
4. Identify that the problem describes information processing guided by higher-level mental processes such as prior knowledge and expectations, which aligns with the definition of 'Top-down processing'.
5. Conclude that the correct term for this type of information processing is 'Top-down processing', differentiating it from 'Bottom-up processing', 'Parallel processing', and 'Serial processing'.