Cognitive

Question 1

What are the key assumptions of the cognitive approach?

Answer 1

• mental processes can be scientifically studied by making inferences from behavioural outputs
• can be represented through theoretical models
• can be tested by programming computer models to process info like humans

Question 2

What are theoretical models?

Answer 2

Abstract/diagrammatic representation of steps involved in internal mental processes

Question 3

What are computer models?

Answer 3

Programmes run to imitate the human mind, to see if similar output is given; used to test theoretical models

Question 4

What are the stages of mental processes according to the cognitive approach?

Answer 4

input - sensory info from environment —> proccessing - info is encoded + processed —> output - behaviour or emotion
(cognitive psychologists infer + study the processing stage based on the output)

Question 5

What is schema?

Answer 5

A framework of ideas, beliefs and expectations that influence cognitive processing - developed through experience

Question 6

What are the positives and negatives of schemas?

Answer 6

+ allow us to respond quickly to our environment
– lead to inaccuracies in recall —> e.g witness testimonies
– stereotypes
– links to depression —> negative self schema

Question 7

What is a strength of cognitive approach?

Answer 7

-uses highly scientific methods
- enhances internal validity

Question 8

What are the limitations of the cognitive approach?

Answer 8

Machine reductionism
-Reduces human behaviour to machines
- Neglects role of emotions on actions
- Does not recognise complexity of human behaviour
Unfalsifiable
- Considers roles of internal mental processes which cannot be directly measured
- Difficult to prove