The cognitive approach Flashcards
What does the cognitive approach believe about measuring behaviour?
It is necessary to look at internal mental processes to understand behaviour.
The cognitive approach is considered a scientific approach, but what does it rely on which may reduce the extent of this?
Inference - reaching a logical conclusion on the basis of evidence and reasoning.
Name the two types of models used in cognitive psychology.
Theoretical models
Computer models
What is a theoretical model and give an example?
Simplified (often pictorial) representations of a particular mental process based on research evidence. Working memory model - Baddeley and Hitch.
What is a computer model?
Using computer analogies to explain mental processes, assuming the brain is a logical information processor.
What is a schema?
Cognitive framework that organises packets of information in the brain on a subject.
What is the role of schemas?
Make sense of new situations/information:
Shortcuts when presented with large amounts of info
Excludes ideas that don’t fir with schema
Acts lie a stereotype e.g. libraries - books, quiet, librarian.
What is cognitive neuroscience?
An area of psychology dedicated to the underlying neural bases of cognitive functions.
What has allowed the emergence of cognitive neuroscience?
New technologies such as fMRI and PET scans that allow non-invasive study of the brain.
(AO3) What is the strength of applying the cognitive approach in real life?
Helps explain dysfunctional behaviour through thought processes. E.g. Beck’s negative triad. Leads to successful treatments (CBT - ‘90% success rates’). Suggests approach has credibility and shows positive real world impact of approach.
(AO3) What is a particular strength of the cognitive approach?
It’s use of the scientific method. Experimental method = vigorous method for collecting and evaluating evidence to reach accurate conclusion about how the mind works. Therefore conclusions are based on more than common sense ad introspection (misleading). Increases validity of using approach overall.
(AO3) Evaluate the use of computer analogies for explaining thought processes.
‘Encoding’, ‘storage’, and ‘retrieval’ are all computer terms. But info processing in humans and computers is different. Computers don’t make mistakes, ignore or forget info. Suggests using such models is not entirely appropriate.
(AO3) What is an issue with many studies carried out using the cognitive approach?
Lack of ecological validity. Present tasks that have little relation to real life. E.g. experiments in memory often use nonsense syllables - not used in everyday short-term memory. Reduces generalisability
