Learn: Cognitive Approach Assumptions

Welcome!Today we'll learn about the Cognitive Approach Assumptions. This will help you understand how psychologists view behaviour as information processing.

What is the Cognitive Approach?The Cognitive Approach focuses on how we process information, such as thinking, memory, and problem-solving. Psychologists use it to understand how we interpret, store, and recall information.

Key AssumptionsThere are two main assumptions in the cognitive approach:Behaviour as information processing: Our minds work like computers, processing information in logical steps.Computer analogy: Psychologists compare the mind to a computer—it takes in information (input), processes it, and produces a response (output).

Memory StoresThe cognitive approach explains memory using three memory stores: sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory.Sensory memory: Briefly holds information from the senses (e.g., sounds, sights).Short-term memory: Stores information temporarily for tasks like problem-solving. Limited capacity and duration.Long-term memory: Stores information permanently, such as personal experiences or knowledge.

Reconstructive MemoryReconstructive memory suggests we remember things by piecing together fragments, influenced by our schemas (mental frameworks based on past experiences).Schema: Mental structures that organise knowledge and influence how we interpret new information.Shortening: Leaving out details to simplify memories.Rationalisation: Adding or changing information to make sense of it.Confabulation: Filling in memory gaps with incorrect information.

Cognitive BiasesCognitive biases are errors in thinking that affect how we process information. Common biases include:Fundamental Attribution Error: Blaming others' behaviour on their personality rather than situational factors.Confirmation Bias: Focusing on information that supports our beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence.Hostile Attribution Bias: Interpreting others' actions as aggressive, even if they are neutral.

Review Time!Great work! You've learned about the cognitive approach assumptions, memory stores, reconstructive memory, and cognitive biases. Let's review what we've covered!

Wrapping UpFantastic work today! You’ve learned about the cognitive approach and its key concepts, such as memory stores, reconstructive memory, and cognitive biases. Keep reviewing these ideas to strengthen your understanding!