Approaches in Psychology - Cognitive Approach

Questions and Answers

What is the cognitive approach?

The cognitive approach focuses on how our mental processes (e.g. thoughts, perceptions, attention) affect behavior.

What are internal mental processes?

'Private' operations of the mind such as perception and attention that mediate between stimulus and response.

What are schema?

A mental framework of beliefs and expectations that influence cognitive processing.

What is inference in cognitive psychology?

The process whereby cognitive psychologists draw conclusions about the way mental processes operate based on observed behavior. Signup and view all the answers

What is cognitive neuroscience?

The scientific study of biological structures that underpin cognitive processes. Signup and view all the answers

What are the assumptions of the cognitive approach?

Internal mental processes can, and should, be studied scientifically. Signup and view all the answers

What are theoretical models?

A way of studying internal processes that suggest information flows through the cognitive system in a sequence. Signup and view all the answers

What are computer models in cognitive psychology?

Models that compare the mind to a computer, suggesting similarities in the way information is processed. Signup and view all the answers

What is a simple schema like for babies?

Babies are born with simple motor schemas for innate behaviors such as sucking and grasping. Signup and view all the answers

How does schema change as we get older?

Our schemas become more detailed and sophisticated. Signup and view all the answers

Why is schema useful, and what problems are associated with schema?

Schemas enable quick processing of information but may distort our interpretations of sensory info. Signup and view all the answers

How has cognitive neuroscience emerged?

With advances in brain scanning technology, scientists can describe the neurological basis of mental processing. Signup and view all the answers

What is a strength of the cognitive approach?

The cognitive approach uses scientific and objective methods. Signup and view all the answers

What is a limitation of the cognitive approach?

It is based on machine reductionism. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cognitive Approach Overview

Focuses on mental processes such as thoughts, perceptions, and attention influencing behavior.
Internal mental processes like perception and attention are fundamental in mediating between stimuli and responses.

Key Concepts in Cognitive Psychology

Schemas: Mental frameworks formed from experiences that shape cognitive processing and expectations.
Inference: Cognitive psychologists deduce mental processes by analyzing observed behaviors.
Cognitive Neuroscience: Examines biological structures that support cognitive functions, linking mental processes with neural activities.

Assumptions of the Cognitive Approach

Emphasizes the scientific study of internal mental processes, contrasting with behaviorism's focus on observable behavior only.
Investigates memory, perception, and thinking, which behaviorism has overlooked.
Internal processes are inferred indirectly through observing behavior.

Research Methodologies

Theoretical Models: Use frameworks like the information processing approach to describe the flow of information (input, storage, retrieval).
Computer Models: Compare human cognition to computer functions, highlighting similarities in processing information through central units, coding, and storage.

Development of Schema

Infants are born with simple motor schemas (e.g., sucking, grasping) which coordinate with visual input.
Schemas evolve into complex representations as individuals age, encompassing a wide range of experiences and concepts.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Schema

Schemas facilitate quick information processing, acting as mental shortcuts to manage environmental stimuli.
However, they may distort perceptions, leading to errors in interpreting sensory information.

Advances in Cognitive Neuroscience

Recent brain scanning technologies have enhanced the understanding of the neurological underpinnings of cognitive processes.
Research links specific memories to distinct areas of the brain, such as episodic and semantic memories to different sides of the prefrontal cortex.

Strengths of the Cognitive Approach

Utilizes scientific, controlled methodologies (e.g., lab studies) to investigate cognitive processes.
Establishes a credible scientific foundation by integrating biology with cognitive psychology, contributing to cognitive neuroscience.

Limitations of the Cognitive Approach

Critiqued for machine reductionism, overly simplifying human cognition by likening it to computer processing.
Neglects emotional and motivational factors that impact cognitive functions, such as accuracy in eyewitness testimonies, leading to an incomplete understanding of cognitive processes.

Description

Explore the Cognitive Approach in psychology through these flashcards. Understand how mental processes such as thoughts and perceptions influence behavior. Test your knowledge on key definitions and concepts related to internal mental processes.