Cognitive approach assumptions

Question 1

Assumptions

Answer 1

> computer analogy
Internal mental processes
Schemas

Question 2

computer analogy

Answer 2

> compare the human mind with a computer - take in information, change it/store it, recall when necessary

> during process stage : use cognitive processes of perception, attention, memory

Question 3

Example for computer analogy

Answer 3

Multistore model of memory
Atkinson and Shiffrin (1968)
model shows that information is input to brain through senses and moved to short-term memory and then to long-term memory. Output when required

Question 4

Internal mental processes

Answer 4

> sees humans as information processors
essential cognitive processes work together to respond to the world + understand environment
processes : perception, attention, memory, language.

Question 5

Schemas

Answer 5

> organised packets of information that are built through experience and stored in long-term memory
derived from past experiences
built up via social exchanges rather than personal interactions

Question 6

Example for schemas

Answer 6

‘burgular’ schema. most people never witnessed bulglary but schema would be male, balaclava, young

Question 7

Relationship formation - schemas

Answer 7

P - packets of knowledge we have about other people govern how we act/feel towards them
Ex - Dion et al (1972) - physically attractive people = attractive personal qualities - Halo effect
E - if we (ex) may become interested forming relationship

Question 8

Relationship formation - Internal mental processes

Answer 8

P - essential in RF: self-perception/perception of others
> the way we believe others to be determines our desire to enter relationship
Ex- perception based on first impressions of stranger= influence
>Memories - positive of past relationship = driven to form new ones, negative = not