Paper 2 Cognitive Theory Flashcards
Examples of internal mental processes?
Perception
Attention
Thinking
Memory
Cognitive assumptions?
Internal mental processes should be studied
By indirectly making inferences about what they are thinking to study behaviour
What is schema?
Packages of ideas and info developed through experience
What does schema do/help with?
Interprets incoming information quickly to the cognitive system using previous beliefs and expectations
What is simple motor schema?
A framework babies are born with to perform innate behaviours such as grasping and sucking
What is a limitation of schema?
It can distort our interpretation of sensory information
What is a strength of schema?
Prevents us from being overwhelmed by environmental stimuli
How can we understand internal mental processes?
By using both theoretical and computer models
Theoretical models?
Abstract things
Computer models?
Concrete things
Example of theoretical model?
Information processing approach
Information processing approach?
How information flows through the cognitive system in a sequence of stages
Input -> storage-> retrieval/output
What is the information processing approach based off?
Computer functions
Examples of computer models?
Artificial intelligence
Brain mapping?
This is done to align specific areas of the brain to specific cognitive functions.
Example of brain mapping?
Long-term memory in prefrontal cortex
Examples of scanning techniques?
FMRI
PET
What are scanning techniques used for?
To observe and describe the neurological basis of mental processes and thus establishing the neurological basis of mental disorders
What are impacts of cognitive neuroscience?
The use of pc-generated models led to mind-mapping techniques (brain fingerprinting)
What are the strengths of cognitive approach?
Scientific methods - controlled, objective, and rigorous studies
Lab studies so credible
Real world application - AI and treatment of depression so more validity
Soft determinism
What are the limitations of cognitive approach?
Too abstract and theoretical in nature so no direct observations
Artificial stimuli is used so not representative so low external validity
Machine reductionism
