What phenomenon occurs when previous experiences influence the way we perceive new stimuli?

The phenomenon that occurs when previous experiences influence the way we perceive new stimuli is referred to as perceptual set. This concept involves a readiness to perceive things in a certain way based on our past experiences, expectations, and prior knowledge. It shapes how we interpret sensory information by creating a mental framework that guides our attention and interpretation of new stimuli.

Perceptual set can involve various factors, such as cultural background, emotional state, and interests, which prepare us to see the world in a specific manner. For instance, if a person has had a prior negative experience with a certain type of dog, they might perceive any new dog as threatening, even if it's friendly. This influence can be quite strong, as it often operates unconsciously and can lead to misunderstandings or biases in perception.

Other options, while related to cognition and perception, do not specifically describe this particular phenomenon. Memory formation relates more to the process of encoding, storing, and retrieving information, while cognitive bias denotes systematic patterns of deviation from norm or rationality in judgment. Situational context focuses on the environmental or social factors that may influence perception but does not inherently include the impact of past experiences like perceptual set does.