SENSORY FEEDBACK Meaning and
Definition
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Sensory feedback refers to the information received and processed by the sensory system, including the central nervous system, resulting from an individual's interaction with their environment. It involves the collection, analysis, and interpretation of sensory stimuli, which are then used to modify or regulate subsequent actions or behaviors.
Sensory feedback plays a crucial role in many physiological processes, enabling the body to constantly monitor and adapt to its surroundings. It allows individuals to perceive and respond to various sensory inputs such as sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. For example, when we touch a hot surface, sensory feedback signals are transmitted to the brain, alerting us to the potential danger. This prompts an immediate response and withdrawal of the hand to prevent injury.
In addition to somatosensory feedback, such as touch, temperature, and pain, sensory feedback also encompasses other sensory modalities such as visual and auditory feedback. It enables the integration of multiple sensory inputs to generate a coherent representation and perception of the world.
Sensory feedback is essential for motor control and coordination. It helps in maintaining balance, posture, and spatial orientation. For instance, the vestibular system in the inner ear provides sensory feedback regarding head position and motion, aiding in maintaining stability and equilibrium.
Overall, sensory feedback is a fundamental process that allows individuals to sense, evaluate, and respond appropriately to their environment, ensuring their well-being and adaptability in different situations.
Etymology of SENSORY FEEDBACK
The etymology of the word "sensory" can be traced back to the Latin word "sensus", which means "feeling" or "perception". It is derived from the verb "sentire", meaning "to feel" or "to perceive". "Sensory" refers to anything related to the senses or the process of perception.
The word "feedback" has its roots in the Old English word "fēdan", meaning "to feed or nourish". In the 19th century, it was used in engineering to refer to the process of returning part of the output of a system to its input to modify the overall system's behavior. Over time, "feedback" came to describe any information returned to modify or regulate a process or behavior.
