Cognitive vs. Social Psychology Debates

Flashcards comparing the cognitive and social approaches in psychology across core debates: determinism vs. free will, reductionism, nature vs nurture, and scientific methodology.

How does the cognitive approach view the determinism vs. free will debate?

It supports soft determinism, meaning we can make choices but within the constraints of our prior experiences.

How does the social approach view the determinism vs. free will debate?

It supports external determinism, meaning we behave according to the influence of others around us.

How is reductionism viewed in the cognitive approach?

When studying behaviour, it simplifies explanations for behaviour down to the way we process information, ignoring other factors.

How is reductionism viewed in the social approach?

It is the least reductionist as explanations are not limited to one cause.

What is the cognitive approach's stance on nature vs nurture?

Nurture mainly—behaviour is modified by experience, although processing type/speed etc. can be innate.

What is the social approach's stance on nature vs nurture?

Nurture—we are influenced by the behaviour of others.

To what extent is the cognitive approach considered scientific?

It uses scientific methods (e.g., to control variables) but cannot directly observe cognitive processes.

To what extent is the social approach considered scientific?

It can manipulate variables to study behaviours but cannot scientifically conclude the reasons for it.