You finally decided (after some coaxing from your friends) that a good way to get into shape is in-line skating. You suddenly become aware of television and radio advertising about Rollerblade products. This is an example of
A. selective retention
B. selective perception
C. selective response
D. selective exposure
E. None of the above
Answer: (D) This question involves selective processes when one is exposed to stimuli. With selective exposure (D) our minds and eyes seek out and notice information that interests us. In the example, rollerblade products begin to interest you, so you notice ads about them more often. Selective retention (A) occurs when we remember only what we want to remember. This may occur after we have been exposed, suddenly, to the information. Selective perception (B) is when we screen out or modify ideas, messages, and information that conflict with previously learned attitudes and beliefs. Selective response (C) is incorrect because there is not a category called selective response. (E) is incorrect because one of the above, (D), is true.