Cognitive approach Flashcards
What does the cognitive approach involve the study of?
Cognitive psychology involves the study of internal mental processes
What are the assumptions of the cognitive approach?
Approach is focused on how mental processes such as thoughts, perceptions and attention affect behaviour.
Argues that internal mental processes can and should be studies scientifically through the use of lab studies.
Scientific and controlled experiments allow psychologists to infer what is happening in the inner workings of the mind.
What is a schema?
cognitive framework that helps us to organise and interpret info in the brain and also help us make sense of new info.
Schemas are mental structures that represent an aspect of the world, such as an object or event.
Why are schemata helpful?
Schemata help us to make sense of the world, by providing short cuts to identifying things that we come across.
Do babies have schemata?
Yes, babies are born with simple motor schemas such as sucking and grasping.
Do our schemas change over time?
Yes, as we develop our schemas become more detailed and sophisticated which in turn enable us to process lots of info quickly.
What are theoretical models?
In cognitive psych, models are simplified, usually pictorial representations of a particular mental process based on current research evidence.
What are theoretical models and computer models used for?
Theoretical and computer models can be used to explain and make inferences about mental processes.
One of the core assumptions of the cognitive psych approach is that the mind functions like a…
… computer.
