COGNITIVE Assumptions Flashcards
What does the computer analogy in the cognitive approach compare the mind to?
It compares the human mind to a computer.
What does the computer analogy say about how we process information?
We take in information (input) store or change it (process)
What is the Multi-Store Memory Model (Atkinson & Shiffrin 1968)?
A model where information enters through the senses
What are internal mental processes in the cognitive approach?
Perception, Attention
Why is studying internal mental processes a challenge in the cognitive approach?
Thoughts cannot be directly observed or measured.
Who used introspection to investigate thought processes?
Wundt (1879).
How did Wundt use introspection scientifically?
Highly trained assistants were given a stimulus and reported what it made them think.
What allows psychologists to infer internal processes in cognitive psychology?
Scientific and controlled lab experiments.
How can we infer thoughts through experiments?
By observing what people say and do as valid measures of thought processes.
What are schemata according to the cognitive approach?
Mental structures representing aspects of the world.
Why are schemata useful?
They help us make sense of the world and act as shortcuts for identifying things.
What would happen without schemata?
We would struggle to navigate the world.
How are schemata formed?
Through past experiences and interactions.
What is a limitation of schemata?
They are not always correct and can form the basis of stereotypes.
How can schemata affect memory?
They can alter memory recall based on our expectations or stereotypes.
What did Allport and Postman (1947) find about schemata and memory?
Participants misremembered a black man as the mugger due to stereotype-driven schemata.
What is a stereotype in terms of schemata?
A schema containing beliefs about a certain group of people.
How do schemas influence relationship formation?
They may govern how we feel and act toward others.
What did Dion et al. (1972) find about physical attractiveness and schemas?
People believe attractive individuals have attractive personal qualities (halo effect).
What is the halo effect in the context of relationship formation?
We assume attractive people also have positive traits increasing interest in relationships.
How do internal mental processes influence relationship formation?
Through self-perception and perception of others.
What role does perception of others play in relationships?
It affects our desire to enter or avoid relationships.
How do memories of past relationships affect new ones?
Positive memories may motivate us to form new ones while negative ones may create reluctance.
