cognition, consciousness, and language

4 components of information processing model

1. Thinking requires sensation, encoding

2. Stimuli must be analyzed

3. Decisions can be used to solve different problems

4. problem solving is dependent on context and complexity

What are Piaget’s stages of cognitive development?

1. Sensorimotor

2. Preoperational

3. Concrete Operational

4. Formal Operational

How is new information processed

Adaptation

What is Assimilation

new info fits into schema

What is accommodation

existing schema is modified to encompass new info

key features of the Sensorimotor stage

manipulating the environment for physical needs

Circular reactions

ends with object permanence

Key features of preoperational stage

symbolic thinking

egocentrism

centration

2-7

key features of Concrete operational

Understanding conversation and others feelings

7-11

Key features of formal operation

Can think abstractly and problem solve

Starts at age 11

Fluid Vs Crystallized intelligence

Fluid: solve new problems. declines w/ age

Crystallized: Solve problems with existing knowledge

4 types of reasoning

1. Trial and error

2. algorithm

3. deductive (top-down)

4. inductive (bottom-up)

Heuristics

principles used to make decisions

speedy and effective

availability Heuristics

base likelihood on how easily examples come to mind

representativeness heuristics

categorizing items on whether they fit the prototypical, stereotypical, or representative image

belief perseverance

inability to accept another way of thinking even after clear evidence to the contrary

recognition-primed decision model

intuition based off experience

interpersonal intelligence

being able to navigate the moods and motivations of others

3 types of Triarchy theory of intelligence

analytical: ability to evaluate and reason

Creative: solve problems using novel methods

Practical: everyday problems

What is the general intelligence factor

there is a correlation between different cognitive tasks and performance is positive

Where is alertness controlled in the brain

prefrontal cortex: reticular formation

Which brain waves are active when awake

Beta: alert, high frequency

Alpha: relaxed, slowed wavelength

Which brain wave is active during NREM 1&2

theta waves (sleep spindles)

What brain waves are active during NREM3&4

Delta waves (deep sleep)

What are the primary hormones involved in sleep-wake cycle

Melatonin - sleep

Cortisol - wake

Dyssomnia

disorder that makes it hard to sleep or stay asleep

ie: insomnia

Parasomnia

Disorders that cause abnormal movement or behavior during sleep

ie: night terrors

Major types of depressants

Alcohol and sedatives

What are the purposes of barbiturates

Reduce anxiety and promote sleep

Types of stimulants

Amphetamines, cocaine, ecstasy, opiates, hallucinogens, marijuana,

What are the three main structures in the mesolimbic reward pathway?

Nucleus accumbens —> Ventral tangential area —> medial forebrain bundle

Selective attention

filters focus on one thing while allowing other stimuli to be processed

5 basic components of Language

1. Phonology - sound

2. Morphology - structure

3. Semantics - meaning

4. Syntax - put together

5. Pragmatics - context

Timeline of Language Aquisition

9-12 months: babbling

12-18 months: 1 word/month

18-20 months: explosion of language

2-3 years: longer sentences

5 years: language rules mastered

Aphasia

deficit of language production or comprehension

Broca’s aphasia

inability or difficulty producing speech

Wernicke’s aphasia

inability to comprehend language, nonsensical speech