In Broadbent's filter theory, only a stimulus that is _____ enough will be passed on to be analyzed for meaning in short-term memory.

• A. loud
• B. long
• C. important
• D. unique

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding Broadbent's filter theory, which is a model of attention in cognitive psychology. It suggests that information is filtered before it reaches short-term memory.
2. Recognize that according to this theory, the filter acts as a bottleneck, allowing only certain stimuli to pass through based on specific criteria.
3. Identify the criteria that Broadbent proposed for a stimulus to pass through the filter. He suggested that stimuli are selected based on their physical characteristics, such as loudness or pitch, but more importantly, their significance or importance.
4. Consider the options given: 'loud', 'long', 'important', and 'unique'. Reflect on how each of these characteristics might influence whether a stimulus is filtered through to short-term memory.
5. Conclude that Broadbent's theory emphasizes the importance of a stimulus as the key factor for it to be analyzed for meaning in short-term memory, rather than its loudness, length, or uniqueness.