What results from overstimulation of sensory receptors?

The phenomenon of negative afterimages in visual perception is a direct result of overstimulation of sensory receptors, particularly in the visual system. When the photoreceptors in the retina (cones and rods) are exposed to bright light for an extended period, they may become temporarily desensitized. This desensitization can lead to afterimages, where the viewer continues to perceive a visual effect even after the stimulus is removed. For example, looking at a bright light source and then shifting gaze to a neutral background might cause a lingering impression of the light in a complementary color.

This concept highlights how the sensory systems can become temporarily impaired or altered due to overstimulation. The receptors' responses are not limited to just the direct stimulus; they can also influence how we perceive other stimuli immediately following that intense experience. Therefore, negative afterimages serve as an illustration of the sensory adaptation processes and how our perception might alter due to overwhelming sensory input.