The Cognitive Approach

• (AO1) Give the intro

  Cognitive psychologists argue that the human behaviour can be explained in terms of internal mental processes.

  
  

  Internal mental processes = how information is used (processed) in the mind, including all conscious/unconscious thoughts.
• (AO1) Define role of schema

  Schema = internal, mental framework of expectations, based on previous experiences.

  
  

  E.g. schema for classroom = whiteboard, desks, chairs, books, pens.

  
  

  Through using schemas, individuals can:

  • Make cognitive shortcuts - help process information quickly .
  • Adapt to new environments - quickly understand/navigate the world & interact with people/objects.

  
  

  Additional:

  Doesn't take much mental energy to decide how to respond to range of situations.

  
  

  As age, schemas become increasingly sophisticated + adults develop more schemas to cover most situations.
• (AO1) Define theoretical & computer models

  T = approach uses theoretical models to explain and make inferences about mental processes.

  
  

  E.g. multi-store model explains mental processes, where inputs from senses are processed through attention, then moves to STM, is rehearsed, and finally stored in LTM before being retrieved.

  
  

  C = Similarly, these also explain mental processes, comparing human thinking to computer processing, with input, processing and output.
• (AO1) Link aggression to the cognitive approach

  This approach explains aggression is due to how individuals think about the world around them, influenced by their norms & values.

  
  

  If they believe aggression is justified or acceptable, they are more likely to act aggressively.
• (AO3) Limitation - Over-simplistic

  Point: The approach is over-simplistic, ignoring other factors influencing behaviour, such as biological influences.

  
  

  Evidence: Unlike computers, humans experience empathy/guilt/emotions, which affect processing. In SZ, cognitive explanations focus on metarepresentation, but this describes symptoms rather than explaining their cause.

  
  

  Evaluate: Suggests approach has issues with cause-effect, its descriptive rather than explanatory. E.g. in aggression, ppl act aggressively first, and their thinking patterns change afterwards.
• (AO3) Strength RWA

  Point: Is useful in explaining & treating disorders, such as depression and schizophrenia.

  
  

  Evidence: Beck's negative triad explains depression as cycle of negative thoughts about self, world and future, which is debilitating. Understanding these faulty thinking patterns allows for treatment, thus improving quality of life.

  
  

  Evaluate: CBT, based on cognitive approach, is empowering, with present day focus, teaches individuals to challenge faulty thinking. Life changing, improves work/relationships/mental well-being and is even recommended by NICE guidelines.
• (AO3) Strength - RWA - EWT

  Point: Cognitive interview in improving accuracy of EWT, by applying cognitive theory.

  
  

  E: Helps to avoid leading information and prevents use of schemas in memory recall, which can distort memories. Cue-dependent forgetting, encouraged witness to create own cues e.g. what wearing/what had for breakfast, which can trigger more accurate recall.

  
  

  E: Approach improved accuracy of EWT by considering factors like CDF, making it a valuable tool in both legal and cognitive research.