Cognitive approach

Question 1

Schema

Answer 1

A cognitive framework that helps to interpret and organise information in the brain. They help an individual make sense of new information.

Question 2

Theoretical models

Answer 2

In cognitive psychology, mode;s are simplified, usually pictorial, representations of particular mental process (e.g memory) based on current research.

Question 3

Computer model (to explain human coding)

Answer 3

Refers to the process of using computer analogies as a representation of human cognition. (e.g info stored on a hard disc is like LTM.

Question 4

Cognitive neuroscience

Answer 4

An area of psychology dedicated to the underlying neural bases of cognitive function.

Question 5

The emergence of neuroscience

Answer 5

• The ability to study the living brain. (fMRI and PET)

- Burnett et al (2009)- found the prefrontal cortex is active when people feel guilt.

Question 6

Strength 1 (applied in other areas of psychology)

Answer 6

• e.g research into social cognition, forming a better understanding of how people form impressions of others.
• e.g used to explain dysfunctional behavior through faulty thinking process, leading to cognitive based therapy trearment for OCD.

Question 7

Strength 2 (scientific)

Answer 7

-use of experimental method means conclusions are based on far more than common sense and introcpection.

Question 8

Weakness 1 (computer models)

Answer 8

-Computers dont make mistakes whereas humans do.

Question 9

Weakness 2 (Ignores emotion and motivation)

Answer 9

• It fails to tell us why cognitive processes occur.

- over dependance on processing analogies as motivation is irrelevant to a computer

Question 10

Inference

Answer 10

Reaching a logical conclusion on the basis of evidense and reasoning.