Gray Peter. Psychology Worth Ny. 6th Ed. Pp 108-109 Jun 2026

Gray defines habituation as the simplest form of learning: a decreased behavioral response to a repeated, non-threatening stimulus. For example, if you live near train tracks, you initially startle at each passing train. After repeated exposure without adverse consequences, you stop noticing the sound. On pages 108–109, Gray emphasizes that habituation is not sensory fatigue or motor exhaustion—it is an active learning process where the brain filters out predictable stimuli to conserve attention for novel or significant events.

Gray cites animal studies (specifically, work by Jaak Panksepp, though not named directly in this passage) showing that play behavior triggers the release of and dopamine . This neurochemical cocktail produces pleasure, reduces fear, and consolidates procedural memory. gray peter. psychology worth ny. 6th ed. pp 108-109

Why can some people walk on hot coals while a paper cut can be debilitating? Gray defines habituation as the simplest form of

: Genes provide the biological "blueprints" for building and modifying the physical structures of the body, such as the brain, sensory organs, and endocrine system. Interaction with Environment On pages 108–109, Gray emphasizes that habituation is