The cognitive approach

• The cognitive approach:

  • The cognitive approach studies information processing
  • Mental processes cannot be studied directly so must be inferred
  • A schema - a cognitive framework that helps organise & interpret information.
  • Schemas help us fill in gaps in the absence of full information which can cause us to develop stereotypes. They exclude anything that doesn't conform to our established ideas about the world
  • Theoretical models are simplified representations based on current evidence. Computer models are used for mental processes
  • The emergence of neuroscience helps psychologists understand how the brain supports different cognitive abilities
• The cognitive approach AO3:

  • ✅ Scientific - lab experiments, neuroscience - increases reliability
  • ✅ Real world applications - development of CBT
  • ✅ Soft determinism - behaviour is influenced by mental processes but allows for some conscious thought & decision making - more realistic
  • ❌ Computer analogies are limited - ignores emotion ( e.g. anxiety can affect memory ) & motivation ( why cognitive processes tak eplace ) , differences in information processing ( e.g. computer don't forget )
  • ❌ Artificial - ( e.g. memory tests using word lists ) real life thinking is more meaningful - lacks ecological validity
• The cognitive approach AO3:

  • ✅ Scientific
  • ✅ Real world applications
  • ✅ Soft determinism
  • ❌ Computer analogies are limited
  • ❌ Artificial