The Cognitive Approach - Description

Question 1

Scientific study of mental processes.

Answer 1

• Directly contrasts with behaviourist approach.

- Argues mental processes should be studied.

Question 2

Role of inference in study of mental processes.

Answer 2

• Mental processes can’t be observed.

- Studied indirectly by making inferences on inside people’s heads based on behaviour.

Question 3

Theoretical models used when describing / explaining mental processes.

Answer 3

• Information processing approach.

- Information flows through sequence of stages including input, output, storage and retrieval.

Question 4

Computer models used when describing / explaining mental processes.

Answer 4

• Computer analogy.
• Similarities how computers / human minds process information.
• Central processor (brain) changes information to code.
• Stores hold information.

Question 5

Schema idea central to cognitive approach.

Answer 5

• Information packages developed through experience.
• Mental framework for interpretation of incoming information received.
• Babies have simple motor schema for innate behaviours.
• Scheme more detailed / sophisticated with age.

Question 6

Emergence of cognitive neuroscience.

Answer 6

• Scientific study of influence of brain structures on mental processes.
• Advances in brain scanning technology mean scientists describe neurological bases of mental processing.
• Includes research in memory linking episodic and semantic memories to opposite sides of prefrontal cortex.
• Scanning techniques help establish neurological bases of some disorders.