Theoretical Bases of Dr. Sharps’ Research: Cognitive Asynchrony and Gestalt/Feature-Intensive (G/FI, Continuum Theory) Research
Cognitive Asynchrony Theory
This theoretical perspective provides a framework for understanding the effects on memory and higher cognition of the speed loss inherent in eugeric (normal) aging. The theory posits that eugeric neurological loss is asymmetric among the brain circuits supporting memory and decision-making, resulting in the greater difficulties observed in more complex imaging tasks and mentally effortful activities. The theory suggests that at least in regard to eugeric aging, some compensation for these losses is possible through relatively simple environmental manipulations, rooted in the biocognitive evolutionary nature of the aging process itself; this has been demonstrated in the development of several extremely effective aids to memory in the aged.
Gestalt/Feature-Intensive Processing (Cognitive Continuum) Theory
As a result of Sharps’ research on memory, he began to be recruited in consulting investigative psychology and as an expert witness in the legal and law enforcement realm in the 1990s. He found that the basic principles involved in eyewitness memory extend readily to tactical contexts, including officer-involved shootings and even to the detection of improvised explosive devices in counterterrorism contexts. These principles operate on a continuum, ranging from feature- intensive (FI) processing, in which the specific details of a concept are given significant consideration, to Gestalt (G) processing, in which a concept is considered without detailed analysis, and with relatively uncritical acceptance of the given concept as a whole. FI processing is better suited to complex tasks in which analysis is necessary; G processing is better suited to tasks requiring speed but which may operate with less detail -oriented analysis, such as those frequently found in the tactical realm and in some other areas of modern emergency service [1][4][5]. The G/FI Continuum perspective has proven to be of significant value in conceptualizing the cognitive demands inherent in law enforcement and the other first responder services. Under the stress and pressure of emergency service, operational outcomes may often depend on the degree to which Gestalt and Feature-Intensive processing are intermingled in the given cognitive context. The theory has proven very useful in the development of training in many aspects of law enforcement and in the fire service. [5] These considerations have been shown to apply outside the realm of first response service as well, especially to situations in which extraordinary levels of novelty are encountered. Such novelty is observed in pioneering science, exploration, and the interpretation of “paranormal” beliefs and sightings. Sharps’ G/FI research therefore also focuses on important discoveries in the history of science [6] and on the psychology of UFO and cryptid beliefs and accounts.
