What is sensory adaptation?

Sensory adaptation refers to the process by which our sensory receptors become less sensitive to constant, unchanging stimuli over time. This phenomenon allows our sensory systems to focus on change and new stimuli in our environment rather than being overwhelmed by constant signals. For example, when you first enter a brightly lit room, the light may feel intense, but after a short period, your eyes adjust, and the brightness no longer feels as overwhelming.

This adaptation is crucial for survival, as it enables individuals to become more responsive to novel stimuli that may be more important or meaningful compared to those that remain constant. By not continuously reacting to unchanged stimuli, the brain can efficiently allocate resources and prioritize attention to more critical changes in the environment.

The other options do not accurately describe sensory adaptation. Increasing sensitivity to new stimuli pertains to the process of becoming more aware of changes (thus not constant), while a uniform response to all types of stimuli represents a lack of adaptive function. A protective mechanism that enhances sensitivity misinterprets the nature of adaptation, which is about diminishing response to familiar stimuli rather than enhancing sensitivity.