The term _____ refers to stimuli that are below the level of conscious awareness.

• A. just noticeable difference
• B. absolute threshold
• C. sensory receptor
• D. subliminal stimuli

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of 'subliminal stimuli': These are stimuli that are below the threshold of conscious awareness, meaning they are not perceived consciously but can still influence thoughts, feelings, or behaviors.
2. Differentiate between 'subliminal stimuli' and 'just noticeable difference': The 'just noticeable difference' refers to the minimum difference in stimulation that a person can detect 50% of the time, which is above the threshold of conscious awareness.
3. Differentiate between 'subliminal stimuli' and 'absolute threshold': The 'absolute threshold' is the minimum intensity of a stimulus that one can detect 50% of the time, which is the point at which a stimulus goes from undetectable to detectable.
4. Differentiate between 'subliminal stimuli' and 'sensory receptor': 'Sensory receptors' are specialized cells responsible for converting external stimuli into neural activity for a specific sensory system, which is a different concept from subliminal stimuli.
5. Recognize that 'subliminal stimuli' are often used in research and advertising to explore their potential effects on behavior and decision-making, despite being below the level of conscious perception.