Evaluation

• Scientific methods

  One strength of the cognitive approach is that it uses objective, scientific methods.

  Cognitive psychologists employ highly controlled methods of study so that they are able to infer cognitive processes at work. This has involved the use of lab studies to produce reliable objective data. Additionally, the emergence of cognitive neuroscience has enabled biology and cognitive psychology to come together and enhance the scientific basis of study.
• Counterpoint to scientific methods

  As cognitive psychology relies on the inference of mental processes, rather than direct observation of behaviour, it may suffer from being too abstract and theoretical in nature. Similarly, studies of mental processes are often carried out using artificial stimuli that may not represent everyday experiences, therefore lacking external validity.
• Real-world application

  A strength of the cognitive approach is that it has practical applications.

  The cognitive approach has been applied to a wide range of practical and theoretical contexts. For example, it has made important contributions in the field of artificial intelligence and the development of 'thinking machines'. These are advances that may change life in the future. Cognitive principles have also been applied to the treatment of depression and improved the accuracy of eyewitness testimonies.
• Machine reductionism

  One limitation of the cognitive approach is that it is based on machine reductionism.

  Although there are similarities between the human mind and computers, the computer analogy has been criticised as it ignores the influence of human emotion and motivation on the cognitive system and how this may affect our ability to process information, therefore weakening the validity of the cognitive approach.