Cognitive Theories and Models

Working Memory Model

Focuses on short term memory. Divides STM into 4 components:

1. central executive

2. phonological loop

3. visuo-spatial sketchpad

4. episodic buffer

Multi-Store Model

Describes memory processing in a linear way through multiple independent stores:

• Sensory memory, short term memory and long term memory

Reconstructive Memory

• Human beings are active processors, not passive 

• Schemas can determine what individuals pay attention to 

• Memories are constructed and then reconstructed throughout the memory process based on schematic influence

proactive interference

When schematic processing influences memory encoding

When schematic processing influences memory recall

retroactive interference

Anchoring Bias

• the tendency to use an initial piece of information for future subsequent judgements and decisions

• Adjust thinking from the anchor

• Can even occur when the anchor (initial piece of information) is random or arbitrary

• Very difficult to avoid even when people understand the bias and are motivated to avoid it

Anchoring as Adjustment

• Anchor is set

• Individuals use the anchor as the base to adjust away from (anchor is understood as invalid)

• But....they are lazy and so insufficiently adjust and stop at the boundary of an acceptable range 

• This is within cognitive awareness

Selective Accessibility

• Anchor is set

• Individual uses anchor as a plausible suitable decision and thus judges its attributes as valid (anchor is understood as valid)

• When proposing new decision, it is judged with regard to valid aspects of anchor

Dual Processing Theory

System 1= Unconscious, implicit thinking. Fast but error prone.
System 2= explicit, conscious reasoned thought. Requires more cognitive effort and time. Leads to more accurate decision making.

Flashbulb memory

A clear and vivid long-term memory of an especially emotional, surprising and meaningful event.

Theorised to be highly detailed and accurate episodic memory due to triggering of biological processing, dubbed the 'print now' mechanism. Potentially evolutionarily advantageous.