A traffic light suddenly changing to red

A tempting muffin

Loud building noise

Everyday we have to inhibit certain actions as well as the focus of our attention. Sometimes we have to inhibit an action very suddenly. For example, in traffic but also in social situations.

Imagine your boss asking you whether you like their new tatoo. You think it's hideous, but due to nature of your relationship you are likely to inhibit your immediate response.

We also learn to inhibit our attention to be able to stay focused on the task at-hand. And sometimes we inhibit currently desirable actions (eating a delicious muffin) in the service of longer-term goals (losing weight).