Evaluation

• Scientific method - Point

  A key strength of the cognitive approach is that it uses scientific and objective methods.
• Scientific method - Evidence

  The approach involves the use of highly controlled methods such as lab experiments. This is important as it allows for researchers to infer cognitive processes at work and also produces reliable, repeatable objective data.
• Scientific method - explain

  In addition, the emergence of cognitive neuroscience has enabled the two fields of biology and psychology to come together. This means that the study of the mind has established a credible scientific basis.
• Too reductionist - point

  However, as key weakness of the cognitive approach is that it is too reductionist.
• Too reductionist - evidence

  Although there are similarities between the human mind and the operations of a computer, the computer analogy has been criticised as it ignores the influence of human emotion. This can be shown in the multi-store model as it places too much emphasis on rehearsal, suggesting this is the only way to remember.
• Too reductionist - explain

  However, we are able to recall certain events that were traumatic or special to us. Therefore, this shows that the cognitive approach fails to show how memory is affected by emotional factors.
• Real world application - point

  Another key strength of the cognitive approach is that it has been applied to a wide range of practical and theoretical contexts, such as CBT
• Real world application - evidence

  For example, Ellis's ABC model has been developed to the 'ABCDE' model. In this updated model, the 'D' stands for dispute which can be used by therapists to counter a patients irrational belief and turn it into a rational one. The 'E' stands for effect, which is the patients healthier consequence as a result of their new rational belief.
• Real world application - explain

  This is important as it shows the development of CBT through cognitive psychology and the value of looking at the influence of mental processes when applying it to real life, particularly with depression, where it has helped most people.
• Sometimes unsuccessful - point

  However, CNT has not always been successful in treating psychological disorders.
• Sometimes unsuccessful - evidence

  For example, it is hard to treat a person with schizophrenia as they are out of touch with reality. This makes it difficult for them to reflect on their irrational beliefs and turn it to a rational one. Furthermore, it is easier to treat a person with depression as they are able to fully treat their disorder, however a person has schizophrenia for life.
• Sometimes unsuccessful - explain

  Therefore, CBT may not always be the best option, suggesting the theoretical models in the cognitive approach to be less importance.