Cognitive approach definitions

What is cognition?

The mental processes involved in acquiring, processing, storing, and retrieving information.

What is a cognitive process?

A mental operation involved in functions such as attention, perception, memory, language, and decision-making.

What is memory?

Memory is the mental capacity to encode, store, and retrieve information over time.

What is schema theory?

Schema theory suggests that people use mental frameworks based on prior knowledge to organize and interpret incoming information.

What is a schema?

A schema is a mental representation or framework of knowledge about a concept or event that helps guide perception and behaviour.

What is reconstructive memory?

Reconstructive memory refers to the idea that memory is not a perfect reproduction of events but is influenced by prior knowledge, beliefs, and expectations.

What is cognitive bias?

A cognitive bias is a systematic error in thinking that affects decisions and judgments.

What is confirmation bias?

Confirmation bias is the tendency to search for, interpret, and remember information that confirms one's pre-existing beliefs.

What is decision-making?

Decision-making is the process of selecting a course of action from among several alternatives based on reasoning and judgment.

What is a dual process model of thinking?

The dual process model suggests there are two systems of thinking: System 1 (fast, intuitive) and System 2 (slow, rational).

What is the interaction between emotion and cognition?

This refers to how emotional states can influence memory, attention, and decision-making.

What is the reliability of cognitive processes?

This refers to the extent to which mental processes like memory or decision-making produce accurate and consistent outcomes.

What is cognitive dissonance?

Cognitive dissonance is the psychological discomfort experienced when holding two conflicting beliefs or behaviours.