Cognitive Approach

Question 1

The Cognitive Approach

Answer 1

The term ‘cognitive’ has come to mean ‘mental processes’, so this approach is focused on how our mental processes affect behaviour.

Question 2

Assumptions of Cognitive Approach

Answer 2

Direct contrast to behavioural approach. Argues that internal mental processes should be studied scientifically. Cognitive psychologists study them indirectly my making inferences.

Question 3

Internal Mental Processes

Answer 3

‘Private’ operations of the mind such as perception and attention that mediate between stimulus and response.

Question 4

Schema

Answer 4

A mental framework of beliefs and expectations that influence cognitive processing. They are developed from experience.

Question 5

Inference

Answer 5

The process whereby cognitive psychologists draw conclusions about the way mental processes operate on the basis of observed behaviour.

Question 6

Cognitive Neuroscience

Answer 6

The scientific study of biological structures that underpin cognitive processes.