Factors Affecting Selective Attention:
Factors affecting selective attention can be categorized into external, internal, motivational, and cognitive factors. Here is a detailed explanation of each:

External Factors:
- Distractions in the environment, such as noise, movement, or bright lights, can divert attention away from the task at hand.
- The presence of multiple stimuli competing for attention can make it challenging to focus on one particular stimulus.

Internal Factors:
- Personal interests, beliefs, and values can influence what individuals choose to pay attention to.
- Emotional state and mood can also impact selective attention, as individuals may be more likely to focus on information that aligns with their current emotional state.

Motivational Factors:
- The level of importance or relevance of a stimulus can influence selective attention. Individuals are more likely to pay attention to information that is personally meaningful or beneficial to them.
- Intrinsic motivation, such as curiosity or a desire for personal growth, can also impact selective attention by directing focus towards certain stimuli.

Cognitive Factors:
- Cognitive load, or the amount of mental effort required to process information, can affect selective attention. High cognitive load may make it difficult to focus on specific stimuli.
- Prior knowledge and experience play a role in selective attention, as individuals are more likely to focus on information that is familiar or matches their existing schemas.
In conclusion, selective attention is influenced by a complex interplay of external, internal, motivational, and cognitive factors, all of which shape how individuals allocate their attention in various situations.