Cognitive approach

The cognitive approach suggests that our brain processes information like a computer system with input-store-process-output. The cognitive approach advocates the scientific study of internal mental processes. The multi-store model of memory serves as a practical application of how mental processes can be explained scientifically.

Theoretical and computer models suggest that our minds process information systematically, resembling a computer processing system. The model used to describe the mind is called the information-processing model. The information accepted from the senses is encoded, manipulated in the mental processes (eg, storage) and directed towards an output (emotions, response). For example, a painter looks at an outline of a portrait ( encoding ) and decides which color suits the specific areas ( processing ) before painting the canvas with brushes ( output ).

• Our responses determine what an individual thinks since mental processes can not be directly observed or examined.
• Human minds and computer processes work similarly, having information inputs (encode) and processing output (decode).
• Internal mental processes work between stimuli and responses , making them eligible to be studied scientifically.

Neuroscience studies the impact of brain structure on information processing of the brain. It uses brain imaging techniques such as MRI or PET scans. Braver et al. (1997) examined the central executive functioning of the brain through brain imaging scans. They found the prefrontal cortex is active when the participants performed particular tasks such as responding to the letters on the visual display with a hand-held box, implying that the prefrontal cortex is located in the brain's central executive.

Lab experiments are one of the most preferred methods used by the cognitive approach. In lab experiments, external variables are controlled to replicate and make the results more reliable. However, this reduces their ecological validity as they are not performed in the natural surroundings of the participants. Lab experiments may create demand characteristics.

Psychologists use brain imaging techniques like MRI and PET scans to determine the active centres of the brain, as all information processing takes place in the centre of the brain. Braver et al. (1997) found that the brain area involved in increasing metabolism lit up on the scan.

Case studies are small samples studying rare conditions which may give an insight on how the mental processes are influenced by that condition, such as the case study of Clive wearing. Case studies are used for cases that are difficult to measure experimentally because of ethical reasons. Their generalisability is compromised because the sample is too small. Case studies have high ecological validity, unlike lab experiments, as they involve a detailed study of data gathered from the participants in their natural surroundings.

• The cognitive approach uses scientific and controlled experiments that produce reliable results and can be replicated, such as MRI scan results.
• The cognitive approach provides practical applications for understanding internal mental processes, such as schemas. Schemas can help us understand, for example, how eyewitness memories can be distorted and become invalid.
• The importance of studying cognitive processes helps us understand some psychological conditions such as depression. Beck (1967) suggests that the negative schemas about oneself, the world and the future cause depression.
• This approach supports the application of cognitive behavioural therapy used to treat conditions like depression effectively.