Cognitive Approach

Question 1

Introduction to Cognitive Approach

Answer 1

• dominant approach in the early 1950s
• Ulric Neisser (1967) published
  “Cognitive Psychology”, which marked
  the official beginning of the cognitive
  approach.

Question 2

Key Assumptions

Answer 2

1. internal mental processes can be investigated using scientific methods
2. mental processes are private but can be studied indirectly (by making inferences)
3. affected by schemas
4. work in similar ways to a computer
5. uses theoretical models of memory to explain how mind works

• how we behave = how processing of information occurs via our brain

-mental processes mediate between stimulus + response

Question 3

Role of Schema

Answer 3

pockets of information that are already stored

• helps process, interpret + organise information better
• mental representation of experience + knowledge
• uses basic knowledge of language + structure
• helps predict what will happen based on past experience
• helps process lots of information quickly using schemas - fluid + natural behaviour
• schemas develop, adapt + evolve experiences (shortcuts in thinking)
• prevents becoming overwhelmed
• can create stereotypes may be negative + unhelpful

Question 4

Bugelsky + Alampay - Ratman (1962)

Answer 4

• supports idea of schemas
• can shape + present info to make people think accordingly

Question 5

Theoretical Computer models

Answer 5

• scientific study of the mind as an information processor
• provide testable theories about mental processing (can be studied scientifically + inferences are made

Question 6

Theoretical models

Answer 6

we cannot see the processes e.g thinking - can make inferences

input - external environment
output - behaviour + response

memory - abstract, models make it tangible (touchable)

Question 7

Emergence of cognitive neuroscience

Answer 7

scientific study to relate brain structure to our mental processes

• advances in brain scanning technology - scientists describe neurobiological basis of mental processing
• useful to establish memory and disorders like OCD
• we can see where processes of thinking might occur but not thoughts
• development of scanning helps realise Type 2 Schizophrenia isn’t responding to medication - brain is physically damaged