What is the perception process? Why is it important?

Perception is the process by which people select, organize, interpret, retrieve, and respond to information from the world around them. Perception is a way of forming impressions about oneself, other people, and daily life experiences. It also serves as a screen or filter through which information passes before it has an effect on attitudes and behavior. The nature and accuracy of a person's perceptions, therefore, has a major impact on his or her responses to a given situation.