A01

• What is the main assumption of the cognitive approach?

  Our thought processes shape our behaviour and should be studied scientifically
• What is a schema?

  A mental framework, gained from experience, which helps organise and interpret new information in the world
• According to the cognitive approach what is the main cause of depression?

  Faulty and negative thinking
• Outline what is meant by musturbatory thinking

  Thinking that certain ideas must be true in order for an individual to be happy (e.g. I must do well or I am worthless)
• What is Ellis' ABC model (1962)?

  A cognitive approach to understanding depression focusing on the effect of irrational beliefs on emotions
• Outline Ellis' ABC model

  A - activating event

  B - irrational belief triggered by the event

  C - consequence of the belief (unhealthy emotion → development of depression)
• What is Beck's negative triad (1967)?

  A cognitive approach to understanding depression focusing on how negative schemas about the self, world and future lead to depression
• How does someone acquire such negative schemas according to Beck?

  Through their childhood as a result of many factors, including parental / peer rejection or criticisms by teachers etc.
• What are systematic cognitive biases?

  Drawing sweeping conclusions regarding self-worth on the basis of one small piece of negative feedback
• What is an example of a systematic cognitive bias?

  Performing poorly on a test and making the sweeping conclusion that you are rubbish at everything