Dual Processing

Definition

Dual processing is the principle that the mind operates on two levels at once—a conscious track and an unconscious track—both working in parallel.

Two-Track Mind:

• Conscious processing: Deliberate, intentional thought (e.g., solving a problem, planning your day).

• Unconscious (automatic) processing: Fast, effortless, and often outside of awareness (e.g., habits, reactions, learned skills).

Example

• Visual action track: Guides moment-to-moment movements (like catching a ball).

• Visual perception track: Helps us recognize objects, judge distance, and think about what we’re seeing.

Why it matters:

Much of what we do—our sensing, feeling, decision-making, and reacting—happens without our conscious awareness. This has implications for memory, attention, and even our understanding of free will and self-control.

See also:

• Selective Attention
• Implicit Memory
• Explicit Memory
• Consciousness