Cognitive approach

Question 1

Cognitive approach key assumption

Answer 1

Behaviour is influenced by thoughts, both conscious and unconscious (internal mental processes)

Question 2

Role of models

Answer 2

Models can be used to provide testable theories about mental processes, and these can be studied scientifically and inferences can be made (making assumptions about mental processes which cannot be directly observed)

Question 3

theoretical models

Answer 3

Theoretical models in cognitive neuroscience are simplified representations of current research evidence.

Models can be updated and indicate cause and effect in mental processes.

ONE EXAMPLE IS THE MULTI-STORE MODEL OF MEMORY by Atkinson & Shiffrin showing how memory flows through stores in the brain but a fourth component was added in 2000

Question 4

Use of computer models

Answer 4

Cognitive psychologists have also made use of computer models to explain cognitive processes.

Using computers as an analogy, information is inputted through the senses, coded into memory and combined with previously stores information.

Computer models are often used to explain memory, where LTM is a hard drive and working memory is like RAM, which is cleared when a task is completed.

Question 5

role of schemas

Answer 5

Schemas are mental representations of experience, knowledge, and understanding.

They help organise and interpret information in the brain. Schemas are useful because they help us predict what will happen in our world based on experience.

They help us process vast amounts of information rapidly and prevent us from becoming overwhelmed by environmental stimuli.

However, schemas can lead to inaccurate perception or faulty memories, causing bias recall of what we expect.

Question 6

Cognitive approach +

Answer 6

+/-) CA uses controlled experimentation so has scientific and objective rigour. However, this lacks ecological validity as we do not get an understanding of cognitive processes in real life

+) CA has had applications in developing effective treatments such as CBT as well as improving reliability of eye witness testimony’s via the cognitive interview

Question 7

cognitive approach -

Answer 7

-) Other research using different approaches explains that behaviour is influenced by other factors such as genetics, environment, hormones etc. which are overlooked in the CA

-) The computer analogy is mechanistic which struggles to explain irrationality seen in the emotional responses shown by people

-) CA is overly simplistic. It focuses on individual mental processes and does not explain how different mental processes work together