Cognitive Approach Flashcards
Key assumptions of the cognitive approach
-Behaviour is the result of internal processes
-Internal mental processes can and should be studied scientifically
-internal mental processes such as memory and perception cannot be observed so are studied indirectly by making inferences based on behaviour
Theoretic models
A type of information processing model with features relevant to humans - msm/ working memory model
Computer models
A type of information processing model with features relevant to computers
What is the information processing approach
A hypothetical model which uses computer terminology to explain how the human mind transforms sensory information
What are the stages of the information processing approach
Information from environment ( input) is subjected to mental processes ( mediation processes) which underline behaviour (output)
Theoretical models
Models like MSM and the working memory model explain a specific process and are characterised by a series of steps usually illustrated by a diagram, they allow cognitive psychologists to make inferences about what is causing the behaviour
Computer models
They create computer programmes to model human cognitive processes. An algorithm is a step by step set of instructions which computers are programmed with this is likened to our mental processes
What are the role of schemas
A cognitive framework that helps organise and interpret information. They are packages of knowledge developed through experience. They allow us to take shortcuts when interpreting the huge amounts of information we have to deal with everyday.
The emergence of cognitive neuroscience
Cognitive neuroscience is the scientific study of the biological basis for mental processing, specifically how neurons behave during those processes. It was formed by miller and Gazzangia. FMRI and pet scans have allowed cognitive neuroscientists to systematically observe and esctibe the neurological basis of mental processing
One example of cognitive neuroscience
Tulvings work on memory, he showed that episodic and semantic memory seem to be located on opposite sides of the pre frontal cortex therefore showing long term memory isn’t a unitary store
One strength of the cognitive approach
It has a number of successful applications in many areas of psychology, it has expanded understanding of psychopathology by offering explanations for dysfunctional behaviour like depression - led to cognitive therapies. It has also been used to within eye witness testimony research though development of the cognitive interview
One limitation of the cognitive approach
Is that it has been accused of having an over simplistic, mechanistic view of human behaviour. Unlike humans, computers do not forget, make mistakes or ignore available information. - reductionst
