The Cognitive Approach Flashcards
What are internal mental processes?
Private actions or processes of the mind that mediate (come between) stimulus and response
What is an inference?
Drawing a conclusion about the way mental processes work, which we cannot directly observe, by making assumptions based on behaviour that we can directly observe
Define a computer model
Process of using computer analogies as a representation on human thinking
What is the computer model for human thinking?
1) Input (senses)
2) Process (brain)
3) Storage (memory)
4) Output/retrieval (recall/recognition)
Define a theory
A system of ideas intended to explain something
Define a theoretical model
Tries to explain the way our mental process work - simplified representations based on current research
Describe the cognitive approach
Uses experimental research methods to study internal mental processes such as attention, perception, memory and decision-making. Cognitive psychologists assume that the mind actively processes information from our senses
What is a schema?
Organised units of knowledge that we have developed through experience that enable us to predict what may happen in a situation and respond appropriately
What is an advantage and disadvantage to schemas?
Advantage: Enables us to process lots of information quickly, preventing us from being overwhelmed by environmental stimuli
Disadvantage: Can distort our interpretation of sensory information, can cause inaccurate recall for eyewitness testimony’s and mental health problems if you develop a negative self schema
Define cognitive neuroscience
Scientific study of the influence of brain structures on mental processes, linking the nervous system to our mental processes
E.g. different part of the brain activated when thinking of episodic (personal) memories than semantic (impersonal) memories
