Cognitive Approach

Question 1

Theoretical models

Answer 1

Frameworks developed by cognitive psychologists to help explain a cognitive process in a senes of steps / components

Question 2

Information processing approach

Answer 2

Input - information from environment received by senses is then encoded

Storage - mediates info input and output through processes like decision making, perception and attention

Output - behaviour responses

Question 3

Inference

Answer 3

Taking clues from observable behaviour to suggest what is occurring in the internal mental processes of the unobservable mind

Question 4

Schemas

Answer 4

Cognitive framework that helps organise and interpret information

Question 5

Features of schemas

Answer 5

Packages of knowledge through experience

Mental shortcuts are created when interpreting information

Behaving appropriately in a situation using schemas

Ignoring information that doesn’t fit our stereotype

Question 6

Schemas linked to human behaviour

Answer 6

Rejection from parents and isolation for friends in childhood
Negative self schema develops

Individual learns to view themselves as unlovable

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Question 7

Why can we use computer models to study mental processes

Answer 7

The human mind behaves like a computer

Question 8

Assumptions of the cognitive approach

Answer 8

The mind is like a computer

Behaviour is a result of mental processes

Information is actively processed

Question 9

How can we study mental processes using computer models

Answer 9

Creating algorithms (step by step instructions). That emulate human mental processing

Using the outputs of the model, we can understand how the human mind works
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Question 10

Strengths of the cognitive approach

Answer 10

Uses scientific and objective methods.
Supporting evidence (Beck and Ellis).
Real life applications (CBT)

Question 11

Limitations of the cognitive approach

Answer 11

Incomplete explanation of behaviour