Stimulus
Contents
Definition
The stimulus is the external or internal object or set of objects which is intended to generate either an Overt Response or Covert Response in the subject as part of a Behavioral Experimental Paradigm Condition.
Definition Source
JT and AL
Synonyms
Parent Entity
BFO: Object Aggregate
Example
In an auditory oddball paradigm, the role of the stimulus is usually filled by the auditory tone or cluster of tones that are presented to the subject.
Logical Restrictions
An experimental Behavioral Experimental Paradigm Condition requires something that plays the role of a stimulus.
Comments
A stimulus is categorized as either an Explicit Stimulus or Implicit Stimulus. An Explicit Stimulus is characterized by its Stimulus Modality.
Original suggestions included: "The occurrent or continuant (i.e., the thingie) which elicits activity from the subject in the experiment". Its suggested definition in other fields includes:
- Anything that may have an impact or influence on a system
- (physiology) Something external that elicits or influences a physiological or psychological activity or response.
- (psychology) Anything effectively impinging upon any of the sensory apparatuses of a living organism, including physical phenomena both internal and external to the body.
- Anything that induces a person to take action
Created Date
2009/11/12
Curator
JT and AL
Curation Status
pending final vetting
