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One assumption of cognitive approach
Mind works like a comouter
Input process output
One feature of cognitive approach
Study of internal mental processes
Describe study of internal mental processes
Internal mental processes can be studied by investigating memory, perception and thinking
Cognitive approach believes we actively process qnd organise info
Studied indirectly by making inferences about what is going in inside the mind based on inviduals behaviour
What is meant by inferences
Process where cognitive psychologists go beyond the immediate evidence to draw logical assumptions about how internal mental processes drive our behaviour
Based on observed behaviour
Feature 2 of cognitive approach
The use of theoretical and computer models
Describe theoretical and computer models
Info processing model eg ABC model
Input- recieve info from environment
Eg sight sound smell
Encoded
Info processing- info is processed and stored as a memory
Output- appropriate behaviour, emotion is performed or retrieval of info occurs
Feature 3 of cognitive approach
Role of schemas
What is meant by a schema
Schemas are a form of internal mental processeses
They are mental representations
Created through unique knowledge and experience
Held in LTM and can include beliefs such as stereotypes
Schemas can change through life and become more detailed through experience
The role of schemas (why are they beneficial)
Beliefs based on past experiences which help us to predict what might happen
Help us make quick decisions which prevent us from being overwhelmed by info from environment
Why schemas may not be beneficial
Can cause biased recall
May recall what we expect rather than what we did witness
Negative schemas increase vulnerability to depression
Explain cognitive neuroscience
Scientific study of brain, mechanisms, processes and chemistry that are responsible for cognitive/ mental/ thinking processes.
PET scans to investigate how brain activity may underpin mental processes