Latent inhibition

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Latent inhibition is the ability to unconsciously ignore stimuli that are perceived as irrelevant to ones needs.

[edit] Low Latent Inhibition

Normal people are able to shut out this constant stream of incoming stimuli, those with low latent inhibition (LLI) cannot. It is hypothesized that a low level of latent inhibition, or LLI, can either cause insanity or a high level of creativity ^[1], which is usually dependent on the subject's intelligence ^{[2], [3]}. Those of above average intelligence are thought to be capable of processing this stream effectively, an ability that greatly aids their creativity and ability to learn and which categorizes them as almost a creative genius. Those with less than average intelligence, on the other hand, are less able to cope, and so as a result are more likely to suffer from mental illness.

[edit] Popular references

• Michael Scofield, the main protagonist in the Fox television series Prison Break, suffers from LLI.

[edit] References

1. ^ Decreased Latent Inhibition Is Associated With Increased Creative Achievement in High-Functioning Individuals
2. ^ FuturePundit: Low Latent Inhibition Plus High Intelligence Leads To High Creativity?
3. ^ University of Toronto: Biological basis for creativity linked to mental illness