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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
6
Q
Strengths of the Cognitive Approach
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- Scientific Methods: Uses highly controlled, rigorous methods of study (e.g., lab experiments), which allow researchers to infer cognitive processes reliably.
- 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.
- Bridges the Gap Between Behaviorism and Biology: It acknowledges internal mental processes while maintaining scientific rigor and considering biological influences.
7
Q
Limitations of the Cognitive Approach
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- 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.
- Lack of Ecological Validity: Research often uses artificial tasks (e.g., memory tasks involving word lists), which may not reflect everyday cognitive processes.
- Inference Issues: Because cognitive processes cannot be directly observed, relying on inferences may lead to inaccurate conclusions.
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.
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).
