Cognitive approach Flashcards

1
Q

Overview of the Cognitive Approach

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  • Cognitive Approach: Focuses on internal mental processes, such as perception, memory, and problem-solving, to explain behavior. It assumes that these processes can and should be studied scientifically using experimental methods.
  • Key Idea: The mind operates like a computer, processing information from the environment.
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2
Q

Role of Inference

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  • Inference: Cognitive psychologists cannot directly observe mental processes, so they make inferences—drawing conclusions about mental processes based on observable behavior.
  • Example: Inferring memory processes by observing recall in different conditions (e.g., Loftus’ studies on eyewitness testimony).
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3
Q

Theoretical and Computer Models

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  • Theoretical Models: Provide simplified representations of mental processes. The most notable model is the information-processing model, which likens the human mind to a computer, involving input, processing, and output.
  • Computer Models: Compare the mind to a computer system, where cognitive processes function like computer software, and the brain is the hardware. This analogy helps psychologists understand memory, perception, and problem-solving.
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4
Q

Schema Theory

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  • Schema: Mental frameworks of knowledge and expectations developed from experience that help us process and interpret information.
  • Function: Schemas help organize information efficiently, filling in gaps in our knowledge, but they can also lead to distortions or biases (e.g., stereotypes).
  • Example: Bartlett’s study on reconstructive memory showed how participants distorted a story (The War of the Ghosts) to fit their pre-existing schemas.
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5
Q

Cognitive Neuroscience

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  • Cognitive Neuroscience: A branch of psychology that investigates the biological basis of cognition, combining cognitive psychology with neuroscience.
  • Techniques Used: Includes brain imaging techniques (e.g., fMRI, PET scans) to study the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive functions.
  • Example: Scanning the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease to study the neural correlates of memory loss.
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6
Q

Strengths of the Cognitive Approach

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  1. Scientific Methods: Uses highly controlled, rigorous methods of study (e.g., lab experiments), which allow researchers to infer cognitive processes reliably.
  2. Application to Real Life: Helps develop practical applications, such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) for treating depression and anxiety. Also applied to artificial intelligence (AI) development.
  3. Bridges the Gap Between Behaviorism and Biology: It acknowledges internal mental processes while maintaining scientific rigor and considering biological influences.
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7
Q

Limitations of the Cognitive Approach

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  1. Machine Reductionism: The comparison of the mind to a computer is overly simplistic, ignoring the influence of emotions and motivation on cognitive processes. For example, anxiety can affect memory, but cognitive models don’t account for this.
  2. Lack of Ecological Validity: Research often uses artificial tasks (e.g., memory tasks involving word lists), which may not reflect everyday cognitive processes.
  3. Inference Issues: Because cognitive processes cannot be directly observed, relying on inferences may lead to inaccurate conclusions.
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8
Q

Application to Psychopathology

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  • Cognitive Approach to Mental Disorders: Faulty thinking patterns (e.g., negative schemas) are believed to underlie disorders such as depression.
  • Beck’s Cognitive Triad: Focuses on negative views about the self, the world, and the future.
  • Ellis’s ABC Model: Emphasizes the role of irrational beliefs and suggests that maladaptive behavior results from faulty cognition.
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9
Q

Key Exam Points

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  • Define: Cognitive Approach, the role of inferences, theoretical and computer models, and schema theory.
  • Research: Reference key studies such as Bartlett’s research on schemas and reconstructive memory.
  • Evaluation: Assess the scientific rigor and applications of the approach while discussing its limitations (machine reductionism, lack of ecological validity).
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