Cognitive Approach

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Studies how mental processes afect behaviour.

Question 2

Assumptions

Answer 2

Internal mental processes should be studied scientifically
Investigate memory, thinking and perception
Private processes cannot be observed
Private processes are studied indirectly
Use of inferences

Question 3

Computer analogy

Answer 3

INPUT —————- PROCESSING ———– OUTPUT
From the Information is Observable
environment via encoded and behaviour
the senses processed e.g
schema

Question 4

Schema

Answer 4

Packages of ideas and information developed through experience.

Question 5

Internal mental processes

Answer 5

“Private” operations of the mind that mediate between stimulus and response.

Question 6

Cognitive neuroscience

Answer 6

The scientific study of biological structures that underpin cognitive processes. e.g PET, FMRI scans

Question 7

Strengths

Answer 7

Uses highly controlled and rigorous methods of study
Has enabled biological and cognitive psychology to come together
Can easily be applied to real life
It’s soft deterministic

Question 8

Weaknesses

Answer 8

It ignores emotion and motivation
Relies in inferences, too abstract
It lacks external validity