The Cognitive Approach (OCR A-Level Psychology): Revision Notes
5.2.3 The Emergence of Cognitive Neuroscience
- The cognitive approach led to the emergence of cognitive neuroscience.
Cognitive neuroscience
The scientific study of the influence of brain structures on mental processes. Maps cognitive functions to specific areas of the brain. This can be done through the use of brain scanning e.g. fMRI and PET scans.
By identifying areas of the brain associated with particular problems, treatments can begin to be developed.
Mental processes are studied indirectly.
Research methods used by the cognitive approach:
- Lab experiments
- Case studies
- Brain imaging
Positive evaluation
P: Has had useful applications.
E: For example, cognitive behavioural therapy has shown to be effective for a range of mental disorders, e.g. depression and anxiety.
E: Therefore it has been highly beneficial within today's society.
P: Uses scientific methods, mainly lab experiments.
E: They are controlled and replicable.
E: Therefore, the results are reliable.
P: Schemas help to simplify the world around us
E: they are useful as they allow us to take shortcuts
E: This helps with interpreting the vast amount of information that is available in our environment.
Negative evaluation
P: Uses mainly lab experiments; they are artificial.
E: So it might not reflect how people process information in their everyday life.
E: Therefore, it lacks ecological validity.
P: Ignore the differences between computers and humans.
E: Humans can forget information and make mistakes.
E: Therefore, it can be seen as machine reductionist.
P: Schemas can distort and exclude information.
E: Causing us to overlook important information and only focus on things that confirm our pre-existing beliefs.
E: Therefore, schemas contribute to stereotypes.