Cognitive

Question 1

Assumptions:

Answer 1

> In contrast to the behavioural approach the cognitive approach argues that internal mental processes could, and should, be studied scientifically. As a result this approach studies the areas of behaviour that the behaviourist approach ignores, such as memory, perception and thinking.

> The development of the first computers gave cognitive psychologists a metaphor for describing mental processes.

Question 2

Schemas

Answer 2

We use experiences to build mental systems which we use to interpret the world around us.

Once established, we tend to organise reality to fit our schemas, not the other way around.

Inaccurate schemas can be the basis of psychological abnormalities – eg: “The Cognitive Triad”

Question 3

Cognitive Models

Answer 3

These are theoretical representations of mental processes that have been inferred through evidence of behaviour – although not necessarily based on physical things, they can be used to explain real behaviour.

Models are often based on viewing the human mind as a processing unit, like a computer.

Question 4

Cognitive Neuroscience

Answer 4

As Brain Scanning has developed, it has become possible to see mental processes in a more physical sense. (moving from “the mind” to “the brain”).

We can see different levels of activity in different parts of the brain – suggesting that the brain has distinct processes as suggested by processing models.