Cognitive Approach

• Assumptions-

  • cognitive approaches can be and should be studied scientifically
  • the mind is like a computer, our senses input information and process an output
  • must study cognitive processes that affect how we respond to a stimulus
  • we can make inferences on what goes on in someone's mind based on external behaviours
• schema- a mental framework of beliefs and expectations that influence cognitive processing, they are developed from experiences
• inference- the process whereby cognitive psychologists draw conclusions about the way mental process affect behaviour
• information processing approach- information flows through the cognitive system in set stages including, input storage and retrieval
• computer model-

  input ( comes from the environment via the senses and is encoded by the individual )

  processing - ( schema )

  output- ( a behavioural response occurs once information is processed
• role of schema- set of instructions for how we interpret information and they develop over time depending upon our experiences over time. Schemas help respond to information appropriately. No sensory overload. Schemas also create expectations.
• Strengths-

  Research support- Bugelski and Alampay supports the concept of schemas and demonstrates why 2 people may form different schemas

  Practical Applications-Cognitive Behavioural therapy, aiming to help change irrational thought processes into rational thought processes uses cognitions
• Limitations-

  Unconscious thoughts- doesn't consider the existence of unconscious thoughts which also drives behaviour, this is not a complete explanation of the role of cognitions

  Biological Factors- Genetics have been found to have an impact on behaviour, so this approach doesn't consider faulty genetics equal faulty thoughts