Perceptual processes as prerequisites for complex human behaviour

Learning implies interaction between the environment and the individual. Thus processing of perceptual information becomes a crucial factor. Perception includes all the mechanisms used in processing the stimuli of an actual situation. Research findings in normal and sensory-deprived children suggest that perceptual development covers the entire period of acquisition of language and other complex human performances. Furthermore, children and brain damaged adults presenting problems of language and other complex human performances, such as imitation and production of events, also show difficulties in successive pattern and form recognition. The hypothesis is proposed that the adequacy of perceptual processes is a prerequisite for complex human performance. A learning model is described, based on that assumption, and therapeutic consequences are discussed.