Tussen aandacht en afleiding: een leven lang zoeken
Why does one object immediately catch our attention, while we barely notice another? Do we have control over what we look at, or are we unconsciously guided by what stands out in our environment and by what we have learned previously? These questions form the central theme of the research conducted by Jan Theeuwes, professor of cognitive psychology, who is retiring from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam after 28 years.
In the early 1990s, Theeuwes demonstrated through his own experimental task that conspicuous but irrelevant objects can automatically capture our attention. Even when we try our best to ignore them. This research has had a major impact on how scientists think about attention and distraction. Later, he demonstrated that past experiences, rewards, and subconsciously learned patterns also determine where our attention goes.
Theeuwes was not only engaged in basic research. He also wanted to understand how that knowledge could be applied in practice. For example, together with colleagues, he developed the internationally influential concept of “Self-Explaining Roads”: roads whose design clearly indicates what behavior is expected of road users. In addition, he worked on a wide range of issues, from traffic safety and tunnel design to brand recognition and the assessment of medical errors.
In his valedictory lecture, Theeuwes takes a critical look at the development of his field. Psychology is increasingly focused on brain research and advanced techniques. While this yields significant benefits, he believes there is a risk that attention to practical problems will be lost. It is precisely this connection between fundamental science and societal issues that must be preserved.