Attention Network Theory

Attention Network Theory suggests that our attention consists of three interconnected systems: alerting (being ready to notice stimuli), orienting (selecting specific information to focus on), and executive control (managing and filtering distractions). These systems work together to help us process relevant information efficiently. For example, alerting helps us stay vigilant, orienting allows us to focus on a particular object or task, and executive control helps us resist distractions and make decisions. Understanding these networks helps explain how we pay attention, switch focus, and stay alert in different situations.