The Cognitive Approach Flashcards
What are the assumptions of the cognitive approach?
Internal mental processes can and should be studied scientifically
E.g memory, perception, thinking
Cannot be directly observed, so cog psychologists study them indirectly- observing behaviour and therefore infer the mental processes
What is meant by a schema?
A mental framework/pool of knowledge/beliefs/expectations based on personal experience
What do cognitive psychologists believe a schema helps us with?
Interpreting incoming information, by linking new stimuli to existing knowledge
Processing lots of info quickly (mental shortcuts os we don’t become overwhelmed
What are some drawbacks of having a “schema”
It can lead to distortions of perception (e.g we make assumptions or draw stereotypes)
What is meant by the term theoretical model?
Abstract models
E.g the multistore model
What is meant by the term computer model?
An actual concrete model (programming)
What type of theoretical model is the main model used in the cognitive approach?
The information processing approach
What does the information processing approach suggest?
Humans are synonymous with computers
Describe the process of the information processing
Info is inputted -> processed -> stored -> retrieved
What is meant by the term artificial intelligence?
Computational models, programmed to process information like a human
E.g. Chat GPT
Supporting evidence for this approach
Godden and Baddeley’s study support the claim that it is possible and important to study mental processes
Found that memory is affected by context and state cues
Much of the supporting research is conducted in highly controlled lab settings, gathering objective, empirical data
How can the supporting evidence be criticised?
These studies often rely on inference of mental processes, not direct, observable behaviour (e.g memories)
This approach is descriptive rather than explanatory
How can this approach by applied?
Has led to the development of CBT, to help clients challenge negative beliefs/perceptions and reduce depressive symptoms
Benefits: individuals will be able to manage these symptoms much better and feel able to return to work and contribute taxes much sooner- benefits the economy
Is this theory reductionistic or holistic?
Reductionistic
It ignores the influence of emotion and motivation on mental processes
It is oversimplistic, as humans are more than just a sum of cognitive parts
