Cognitive approach- evaluation

Question 1

Point 1 (+)

Answer 1

• The cognitive approach uses scientific methods.

Question 2

Expand (point 1)

Answer 2

• Cognitive psychologist use highly controlled lab studies to produce reliable and objective data to add to our understanding of the human mind.
• For example, Baddeley studied characteristics of memory and found differences in coding between short-term and long-term memory.

Question 3

T- why does this matter? (Point 1)

Answer 3

• This scientific focus is a strength because it allows valid conclusions to be drawn from the data and it adds credibility to this area of study.

Question 4

Point 2 (+)

Answer 4

• The cognitive approach uses theoretical models.

Question 5

Explain (point 2)

Answer 5

• Complex internal mental processes have been simplified and represented using theoretical models.
• They provide testable frameworks that cognitive psychologists can use to gather data to add to our understanding of human cognition.

Question 6

T- why does this matter? (Point 2)

Answer 6

• This is a strength because it has allowed for causal conclusions to be drawn about the different features of our ‘private’ processes, for example, memory models have helped us to understand the different components of memory and the roles they play.

Question 7

Point 3 (-)

Answer 7

• The cognitive approach uses theoretical models.

Question 8

Explain (point 3)

Answer 8

• On the other hand, similarities between internal mental processes and the way a computer works (inputs, processing and outputs) have been criticised for oversimplifying human cognition.

Question 9

T- why does this matter (Point 3)

Answer 9

• This level of machine reductionism ignores the influence of human emotion and motivation on our ability to process info.
• Research has found that the accuracy of human memory is affected by emotional factors like anxiety, this suggests that this reductionist view may reduce the validity of the cognitive approach.

Question 10

Point 4 (-)

Answer 10

• The cognitive approach relies on inference.

Question 11

Explain (point 4)

Answer 11

• Cognitive psychologists have to make assumptions that go beyond the objective evidence, this leaves some room for subjective interpretation and potential bias.

Question 12

T- why does this matter? (Point 4)

Answer 12

• This means that the research used to support the cognitive approach is not entirely scientific and this can lower the validity of the approach.

Question 13

Point 5 (+)

Answer 13

• The cognitive approach has practical (real world) applications.

Question 14

Explain (Point 5)

Answer 14

• Most of the current development of artificial intelligence (AI) is based on knowledge of human brain cognition, derived from research from cognitive psychology.
• AI powered tools have been used to assess mental health patients, for example, Expert systems are programmed with knowledge and these can then identify patterns in speech and language that can be used to help anxiety or depression.

Question 15

T- why does this matter (Point 5)

Answer 15

• Luxton suggests that the use of AI could free up valuable time for human professionals.
• This demonstrates the value of this field of study.