Paper 2 - Approaches In Psychology - Topic 4 - The Cognitive Approach Flashcards
What does the cognitive approach argue?
The cognitive approach argues that internal mental processes can, and should, be studied scientifically
What areas of human behaviour does the cognitive approach investigate?
The cognitive approach investigates areas such as memory, perception, and thinking
How do cognitive psychologists study internal mental processes?
Cognitive psychologists study internal mental processes indirectly by making inferences based on behaviour
What are schemas?
Schemas are ‘packages’ of ideas and information developed through experience that help interpret incoming informatiom
How do schemas affect cognitive processing?
Schemas can affect cognitive processing by influencing beliefs or expectations, acting as mental shortcuts
What is an example of a simple motor schema in babies?
An example is the grasping schema, which involves moving a hand towards an object and shaping the hand around it
This schema is coordinated with visual input
What is the information processing approach?
The information processing approach suggests that information flows through the cognitive system in a sequence of stages, including input, storage, and retrieval
What is cognitive neuroscience?
Cognitive neuroscience is the scientific study of the influence of brain structures on mental processes indirectly by
What techniques have advanced cognitive neuroscience?
Advances in brain imaging techniques such as fMRI and PET scans have enhanced cognitive neuroscience
What is one strength of the cognitive approach?
One strength is that it uses objective, scientific methods to study cognitive processes
What is a limitation of the cognitive approach?
A limitation is that it can be too abstract and theoretical, relying on inferences rather than direct observation
What is one real-world application of the cognitive approach?
The cognitive approach has been applied in the field of artificial intelligence and the treatment of depression
What is the machine reductionism?
Machine reductionism is the idea that human cognition can be understood in terms of computer operations, which may ignore emotional and motivational factors
What is soft determinism?
Soft determinism is the view that behaviour may be determined by internal and external factors, but individuals can exert free will at times
