According to theories of form perception, people attempt to match characteristics of an observed pattern to existing characteristics, without considering the prior experience of the perceiver or what the perceiver already knows about the context in which the form is presented.

Jane is a new therapist who works with couples and families. her decision was motivated by her sister melinda’s experience of spousal abuse. when jane meets with her supervisor to review cases, he points out that jane takes sides with her female clients when they cry or describe intense conflicts with their husbands. she believes her supervisor is blind to the signs of abuse. what critical thinking pitfall do jane’s reactions show?