The Cognitive Explanation

Question 1

Evaluate strengths of the cognitive explanation.

Answer 1

Barch et al (1999) - Schizos slower and make more mistakes when processing information.

Frith (1992) - reduced blood flow to prefrontal cortex led to worse cognitive abilities

Question 2

Evaluate weaknesses of the cognitive explanation.

Answer 2

Use Torey (1992) to suggest genetics play a role too.

Frith’s reaearch suggests the explanation is as a result of biological differences.

Question 3

List 8 key terms related to schizophrenia.

Answer 3

• Frith
• faulty
• filter
• cognitive impairment
• attention
• perception
• delusions
• hallucinations

Question 4

How can the cognitive approach explain schizophrenia using key terms?

Answer 4

The cognitive approach explains schizophrenia by focusing on faulty processing of external stimuli, where individuals may have attentional biases leading to delusions and hallucinations due to cognitive impairments in filtering relevant from irrelevant information. Frith’s model suggests that disordered thoughts and schemas can distort perception and internal thoughts, resulting in a perceived threat from the environment.

Question 5

Fill in the blank: The cognitive approach to schizophrenia emphasizes _______ processing of external stimuli.

Answer 5

[faulty]

Question 6

What does attentional bias refer to in the context of schizophrenia?

Answer 6

A tendency to focus on threatening stimuli while ignoring irrelevant information

This bias can contribute to the development of delusions and hallucinations.

Question 7

Fill in the blank: According to the cognitive approach, _______ can lead to disordered thoughts in schizophrenia.

Answer 7

[cognitive impairment]

Question 8

What is the role of schemas in the cognitive explanation of schizophrenia?

Answer 8

Schizophrenics are unable to select the correct schema, therefore misinterpret information.