Understanding the Stroop Effect
Discovered by John Ridley Stroop in 1935, the Stroop Effect demonstrates the interference that occurs in the reaction time of a task. When the name of a color (e.g., "BLUE") is printed in a color that is not denoted by the name (e.g., red ink), naming the color of the ink takes longer and is more prone to errors.
This happens because the brain processes the written word much faster than it processes the color of the ink. Reading has become an "automatic" process for most adults. Naming colors, however, requires more conscious effort.
Cognitive Load Theory
The Stroop Test is a primary measure of Cognitive Flexibility. By forcing a conflict between two different stimuli, we tax the Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC).
Regular practice helps lower response latency, meaning you become faster at resolving internal conflicts and making accurate decisions under stress.
Why Focus Training Matters
Impulse Control
Strengthen your ability to pause before reacting. Critical for emotional regulation and decision-making.
Processing Speed
Reduce the time your brain takes to identify and react to complex stimuli, improving productivity.
Selective Attention
Train your brain to pick one specific signal out of a sea of competing noise or word meanings.
