Cognitive

• Schema

  A mental framework of beliefs and expectations that influence cognitive processing (developed from experience)
• Cognitive approach believes mental processes can and should be studied scientifically
• Cognitive approach studies ‘private’ internal mental processes such as:

  1. Memory
  2. Perception
  3. Thinking
• Private mental processes can be studied indirectly by making inferences based on 1) behaviour, 2) brain activity
• Theoretical diagrams are diagrammatic representations of the steps involved in internal mental processes
• The computer models are when the mind is compared to a computer. Things such as the central processing unit, coding and storage have all been compared to how the brain works
• 1. Central processing unit= Brain
  2. Coding= turning information into usable information
  3. Storage= holding of information
• Benefits of schemas are:

  1. Help us predict the future
  2. Process large amount of info quickly
  3. Prevent is becoming overwhelmed
• Disadvantages of schemas:

  1. Distort our interpretations
  2. Cause bias
  3. Negative schemas can result in mental health problems
• Cognitive neuroscience is the scientific study of the influence ​of the brain on cognition
• Cognitive neuroscience also helped map out the brain areas
• Scanning techniques have been useful in establishing neurological basis of some mental disorders
• The cognitive approach has had an impact on therapy by suggesting that people with depression may benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy which aims to change negative thought patterns
• Advances in brain imaging include fMRI and PET scans
• Cognitive neuroscience as expanded into using computer generated models that are designed to read the brain
• Cognitive neuroscience using computer generated models have led to ‘mind mapping‘ also known as brain fingerprinting
• the cognitive approach helped develop therapy that focuses on changing internal mental processes
• Cognitive approach also established more of an understanding of mental processes involved with learning and memory and appreciation to education