Learn: Cognitive Approach - Assumptions and Key Concepts

Welcome!Today we'll dive into the Cognitive Approach in psychology. This is an essential part of your Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in Applied Psychology curriculum, and we'll explore its assumptions and key concepts. Let's get started!

What is the Cognitive Approach?The Cognitive Approach focuses on how we process information, including how we think, perceive, remember, and solve problems. It compares the human mind to a computer, with inputs, processing, and outputs. Understanding how the mind works can help explain behaviour and improve outcomes in various situations.

Assumptions of the Cognitive ApproachThe Cognitive Approach is based on two key assumptions:Behaviour as information processing: The mind processes information like a computer, taking in inputs, processing them, and producing outputs like decisions or actions.Computer analogy: Our minds work similarly to computers, with memory systems that store, organise, and retrieve information.

Memory Stores and Their CharacteristicsThe Cognitive Approach explains memory as being made up of three memory stores: sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory. Each store has specific characteristics:Sensory memory: Briefly stores information from our senses (e.g., sight, sound). It has a very short duration (less than a second) and large capacity.Short-term memory: Holds small amounts of information for a short time (about 15-30 seconds). It has a limited capacity of 7 ± 2 items.Long-term memory: Stores information for extended periods, potentially a lifetime. It has a huge capacity and information is encoded semantically (based on meaning).

Reconstructive Memory and SchemasMemory is not always perfect and can be influenced by our schemas (mental frameworks based on our past experiences). This process is called reconstructive memory, where we may shorten, rationalise, or even add new information (confabulation) when recalling events.

Cognitive BiasesSometimes, our thinking is influenced by mental shortcuts called cognitive biases. These are systematic errors in thinking that affect decisions and judgments. Examples include:Fundamental attribution error: Blaming someone's personality for their behaviour, rather than considering situational factors.Confirmation bias: Paying attention only to information that supports our beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence.Hostile attribution bias: Misinterpreting others' actions as being aggressive.

Review Time!Great work! You've learned about the Cognitive Approach, its assumptions, and key concepts like memory stores, reconstructive memory, schemas, and cognitive biases. Let's test your knowledge with a quick review!