The Cognitive Approach

Key terms

Cognitive - relates to mental processes such a perception, memory and reasoning

Cognitive neuroscience - an area of psychology dedicated to the underlying neural bases of cognitive functions

Computer model - refer to the process of using computer analogies as a representation of human cognition

Inference/inferring - means reaching a logical conclusion on the basis of evidence and reasoning

Schema - a cognitive framework that helps organise and interpret information in the brain. Schemas help an individual to make sense of new information

Theoretical models - in cognitive psychology, models are simplified, usually pictorial, representations of a particular mental process based on current research evidence

The study of internal mental processes

The role of schemas

The role of theoretical and computer models

They allow us to take shortcuts when interpreting the huge amount of information we have to deal with on daily basis

Fill in the gaps in the absence of full information about a person, event or thing

Example ⭐ If we classify food as 'foreign' or someone we sit next to on the bus as 'old',

We might develop stereotypes that are difficult to disconform, every when faced with new and conflicting information

Theoretical models

Computers models

Models are often pictoral in nature with arrows and boxes

Example ⭐ the working memory model was first proposed by Baddley and Hitch in 1974. Their initial model consisted 3 main sections with a 4th added by Baddley in 2000.

The emergence of cognitive neuroscience

The use of non-invasive neuroimaging techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fRMI)

Example ⭐ Burnett et al. (2009) found than when people fell guilty, several brain regions are active, including the medial prefrontal context, an area associated with social emotions

Evaluation

The cognitive approach has applications

The cognitive approach is scientific

Limitations of computer models

Ignores emotions and motivation

Studies may lack ecological validity