Cognitive Approach Flashcards
What are the basic assumptions of the cognitive approach?
1) The way we think influences our behaviour.
2) Humans are information processors similar to computers:
Information received from the environment -> processed in the mind -> output (behaviour)
3) Humans do not passively respond to their environment instead the human mind actively processes information it receives.
What is a schema?
A package of ideas and information developed through experience.
What do Schemas act as?
A mental framework for the interpretation of incoming information received by the cognitive system.
Bugelski and Alampay (1961)
Used a rat man ambiguous figure to demonstrate the importance of expectation in understanding your environment.
What are the strengths of the cognitive approach?
1) Strengthend scientific nature
Uses brain scanning technologies + relies on controlled and standardised laboratory experiments
- increases value if approach by incorporating biological factors + cognitive processes.
2) Soft determination:
Allows for a degree of freedom (behaviourists would fall under hard determination category) - cognitism accepts that we are determined by brain structure/biological factors but environmental factors are accepted too.
3) Internal mental processes are underpinned by biological processes - mental illnesses can be explained and mental health problems can arise from faulty internal processing and distorted cognitive.
What are the criticisms of the cognitive approach?
1) Use of inferences
Doesnt abide to the principles of science that demands directs evidence that needs no interpretation.
2) Too mechanistic
Relies heavily on using the mind as an information processor like a computer - underestimates the impact of emotional and motivational factors.
3) Lacks external validity
Involves socially sensitive areas of research.
