The cognitive approach - AO3 Flashcards
1
Q
What is a limitation of the cognitive approach?
A
- P: Limitation = machine reductionism
- E: The brain is more complex that a computer; cognitive psychologists fo not consider role of emotions or motivation
- E: e.g Research shows that anxiety can affect the accuracy of eyewitness testimony (Johnson and Scott + Yuille and Cutshall)
- L: Not an accurate account for all behaviour - ignores higher level psychological factors
2
Q
What are two strengths of the cognitive approach?
A
- P: Strength = soft determinism
- E: We may be determined by internal/external factors but we can exert free will at times
- E: Choice is limited within previous knowledge and experience (restricted free will) but we can still think before acting
- L: Cognitive approach offers a more flexible approach to explaining behaviour - more in line with the law as justice system assumes we have free will
- P: Strength = real world applications
- E: Applied to treatment of dperession (CBT)
- E: Applied to improving reliability of eyewitness testimony (cognitive interview)
- L: So the cognitive approach is valuable in many areas of psychology
3
Q
What is a PECS of the cognitive approach (strength)?
A
- P: Strength = scientific methods
- E: Highly controlled lab experiments that produce objective data to test models
- C: However, inference open to subjective interpretation and often use artificial stimuli not representative of real life
- S: Research on cognitive processes may lack validity, weakening approach
