Stregnths And Weaknesses Of The Cognitive Approach

Question 1

Stregnth: use of empirical methods

Answer 1

Involved use of lab experiments. Emergence of cognitive neuroscience has allowed fields of biology and cognitive psychology to come together. This means the study of the mind has established a credible scientific basis.

Question 2

Strength: applications

Answer 2

Wide range of practical contexts such as development of the cognitive interview - CBT

Question 3

Strength: less determinist than other approaches

Answer 3

Recognised that our cognitive system can only operate within the limits of what we know

Question 4

Weakness: too abstract

Answer 4

The applications of models may be too abstract. Experimental studies of mental processes are often artificial- such as presenting word lists in memory experiments, research on cognitive processes may lack external validity

Question 5

Weakness: machine reductionism

Answer 5

Computer analogy has been criticised as it ignored influence of human emotion and motivation on the cognitive system and how this might affect the ability to process info