Which of the friends demonstrated a perceptual set by interpreting a sign related to food due to being hungry?

The concept of perceptual set refers to the tendency to perceive stimuli in a certain way based on prior expectations, emotions, or needs. In this case, Chad demonstrated a perceptual set by interpreting a sign as a Pizza sign because he was likely influenced by his hunger. When individuals are hungry, their brains are more attuned to food-related stimuli, making them more likely to recognize and interpret signs that relate to food—even if they may not be prominent or clear.

This heightened sensitivity occurs because the mind is primed to focus on certain types of information that align with personal experiences or needs at that moment. Thus, when hungry, Chad’s expectation and desire for food enhance the likelihood of perceiving visual cues that align with those feelings, which is why he thought he saw a Pizza sign.

In contrast, other friends were influenced by different needs or contexts—like Alex being tired and estimating distance, Bob seeking a drink due to sweating, or Doug wanting new sneakers after his shoes got wet—but these situations do not specifically relate to perceiving a food-related stimulus influenced by hunger.