Cognitive explanations A01

Question 1

What does a cognitive explanation focus on?

Answer 1

The role of mental processes

Question 2

What dysfunctional thought processes are associated with cognitive processes?

Answer 2

‘hallucinations’, ‘disorganised thoughts’ and ‘poverty of speech’

Question 3

There are a number of brain areas/structures that when are not working properly seem to affect out thought processes - giving evidence that cognition is impaired with those with Sz?

True or false

Answer 3

True

Question 4

What is Meta-representation dysfunction?

Answer 4

The ability to reflect on our own thoughts and behaviour, as well as interpreting the actions of others. If this dysfunctional or impaired, it means that we cannot recognise that our thoughts and actions are caused by ourselves, rather than someone else.

Question 5

What symptoms does meta-representation dysfunction explain?

Answer 5

Hallucinations and delusions (as we cannot tell our own thoughts from other peoples)

Question 6

What does a lack of central control suggest?

Answer 6

The ability to suppress automatic responses whilst performing deliberate actions. If this is dysfunctional or impaired, it means that we are unable to think before we speak or act, therefore displaying abnormal behaviours/speech

Question 7

What symptoms does a lack of central control explain?

Answer 7

Central control - disorganised speech, thoughts and behaviour (as we cannot suppress automatic thoughts or behaviours)