Automatic Processing: Lori's Nightly Closing Checklist

What is Lori demonstrating by going through the nightly closing checklist almost without thinking?

a) Conscious processing

b) Automatic processing

c) Cognitive dissonance

Answer:

Lori is demonstrating automatic processing.

After years as a store manager, Lori is able to go through the nightly closing checklist almost without thinking. Lori's ability to perform this task without conscious effort is a perfect example of automatic processing in psychology.

Automatic processing is a concept where routine or highly-practiced tasks can be completed without the need for conscious thought. In Lori's case, the repetitive nature of going through the closing checklist every night has made it so familiar to her that she can do it almost on autopilot.

Think of automatic processing as a type of mental shortcut that allows us to perform tasks efficiently without taxing our conscious mind. It's like muscle memory for the brain, where the steps become ingrained through repetition.

Lori's automatic processing of the nightly closing checklist showcases how our brains can adapt to repetitive actions and streamline our cognitive processes. It's a fascinating aspect of human psychology that helps us navigate everyday tasks with ease.