Cognitive AO3 Flashcards
Scientific
Cognitive approach is very scientific, especially with cognitive neuroscience. For example, brain scans such as fMRI have developed, which is not open to interpretation. In addition, there are highly controlled lab experiments such as Loftus who tested the role of schemas into eye witness testimony. These tight controls made certain that the IV had an effect on the DV. This provides empirical evidence, and makes the data valid which supports psychology as a science.
Lack ecological validity
However, lab experiments lack ecological validity. Strict controls and artificial environment is created. This makes participants unconsciously change their behaviour, so the findings may be inaccurate. This means it’s less valid and less generalisable
Useful application
There have been useful real life application. Broca’s aphasia is caused by damage to the frontal lobe in Broca’s area. Cognitive neuroscientists were able to discover this by advances in technology which detail the different brain structures involved in different mental processes. Therefore, it has helped us localise our treatment for different disorders
Theoretical models
Theoretical models over simply human behaviour. Computer models states we input, process and store and output info. It ignores the fact that humans have emotions, motivations, and we make mistakes and often forget info. Therefore cognitive approach can be seen as machine reductionist.
Treat mental disorders
However, it argues that we have some choice over our outcomes. ABC model shows that activating events cause consequences which are maladaptive or adaptive depending on our irrational or rational belief. This shows a persons reaction is not caused by the event itself but by the persons interpretation of the event. Therefore, disorders such as depression can be treated by changing their belief.
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Internal mental processes difficult to measure
Internal mental processes like schemas and memory are difficult to measure objectively. They are unobservable, and we can only see the outcome of the mental process. Sometimes, the outcome is unconsciously or consciously changed by the person. This results in findings becoming inaccurate, and the persons behaviour is open to interpretation.
