The correct answer is C.
Mindless processing is information processing that relies heavily on familiar schemata. It is a type of automatic processing that occurs without conscious thought or effort. Mindless processing can be helpful in situations where we need to make quick decisions or when we are faced with a lot of information. However, it can also lead to errors in judgment and decision-making.
Option A is incorrect because careful, critical thinking is a type of mindful processing. It is a deliberate and effortful process that involves evaluating information and making judgments.
Option B is incorrect because inaccurate and faulty processing can occur with both mindful and mindless processing. However, mindless processing is more likely to lead to errors in judgment and decision-making because it is not as carefully controlled.
Option D is incorrect because processing that focuses on unusual or novel events is a type of mindful processing. It is a deliberate and effortful process that involves paying attention to new information and making sense of it.