The Cognitive Approach

Question 1

What are 3 assumptions of the cognitive approach?

Answer 1

-The mind operates in the same way as a computer.
-The objective study of internal mental processes is possible.
-Humans actively organise/manipulate info from environment.

Question 2

According to the cognitive approach, how do humans process information?

Answer 2

Sequentially, one at a time.

Question 3

Which 2 theoretical models have been used to explain mental processes?

Answer 3

Multi-store model of memory.
Working memory model.

Question 4

What is the role of theoretical and computer models in cognitive psychology?

Answer 4

Attempt to explain and infer info about mental processes

Theoretical - show stages of certain mental processes.

Computer - shows how sensory info is coded and how it passes through the system.

Question 5

Outline the role of schemas in cognitive psychology.

Answer 5

-Help us predict what will happen.
-Allows us to process vast amounts of info.
-Prevent us from being overwhelmed by stimuli.

Question 6

Give 3 negative effects of schemas

Answer 6

-May lead to a development of stereotypes.
-Can lead to inaccurate eyewitness testimonies.
-Can cause biased recall.

Question 7

What is meant by cognitive neuroscience?

Answer 7

A field of psychology that studies how brain structures influence mental processes.

Question 8

Outline the emergence of cognitive neuroscience.

Answer 8

-Advances in technology in the late twentieth century meant scientists could observe the neurological basis of mental processes.
-Techniques such as FMRI can be used to study the living brain.

Question 9

Give research related to the emergence of cognitive neuroscience.

Answer 9

1.Tulving et al: showed the different types of LTM may be located on opposite sides of the pre-frontal cortex.

2.Raine et al: showed the lack of prefrontal cortex activity in impulsive murderers via PET scans.

Question 10

Give 2 strengths of the cognitive approach

Answer 10

1. Applied to many areas of psychology.
   Can explain dysfunctional behaviour via tracing it to faulty thinking processes.
   Application in psychopathology has led to development of successful treatments for ocd + depression.
2. Founded on soft determinism.
   Views behaviour as determined by internal/external factors but also acknowledges free will.
   More flexible than other approaches as it allows for humans to have conscious insight into their behaviour.
   Doesn’t view humans as passive - more realistic approach.

Question 11

Give 1 weakness of the cognitive approach.

Answer 11

1. Based on machine reductionism.
   Computer analogies ignore the influence of human emotion + motivation on cognitive processing.
   For example, research shows memory may be affected by anxiety.
   This shows, approach simplifies cognitive processes.
   Therefore, incomplete explanation.