The Cognitive Approach (Approaches)

Question 1

The Cognitive Approach and The study of Internal Mental Processes

Answer 1

Cognitive psychologists study our internal mental processes

This is how our mental processes affect our behaviour (e.g. thoughts, perceptions and attention)

Question 2

Assumptions of the cognitive approach

Answer 2

Our mental systems have a limited capacity

A control mechanism overseas our mental processes

There is a two way flow of information

Question 3

Schema

Answer 3

Mental frameworks

Basic knowledge about a concept or object built from previous experiences

Question 4

Role of Schema

Answer 4

Schemas work as mental shortcuts, used to quickly understand and navigate the world

Question 5

Schema Problems

Answer 5

Schemas can stop people from learning new information

Prejudice and stereotypes can be an outcome of schemas

Question 6

Bartlett 1932 The War of the Ghosts

Answer 6

People use their own schemas to help interpret and remember the word around them.

Lab experiment so lacked ecological validity

Question 7

Theoretical models

Answer 7

Flow chart representations of the steps of a mental process

Question 8

Computer model

Answer 8

Analogy between the operation of a computers central processing unit running software programs and the human brain conducting internal mental processes

Question 9

Cognitive Neuroscience

Answer 9

Scientifically identifies and examines the neurological structures and chemical processes in the brain that are linked to internal mental processes

PET and fMRI scanners allow researchers to observe brain activity directly

Question 10

Evaluation of the cognitive approach

Answer 10

Scientific approach where experiments are highly controlled

Lab experiments are reliable and objective

Cognitive research makes inferences so isn’t a fully scientific approach