The Cognitive Approach (AQA A Level Psychology)

Exam Questions

20 mins6 questions
11 mark

Which of the following statements about the cognitive approach is FALSE?

Shade one box only.

  • Inferences about internal mental processes are made on the basis of behaviour.

  • Internal mental processes are studied scientifically

  • Mental processes are studied directly by making inferences.

  • Theoretical and computer models are used to help explain mental processes.

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21 mark

State one assumption of the cognitive approach.

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32 marks

In a laboratory study of problem-solving, cognitive psychologists asked participants to solve problems presented in different colours of ink. They found that it took longer to solve problems presented in green ink, than it did to solve problems presented in other colours. They inferred that the mental processing of problems is made more difficult when a problem is presented in green ink.

Explain what is meant by ‘inference’ in relation to this study.

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14 marks

We use schema when we process information from the world around us.

Explain one reason why using schema might be useful when processing information from the world around us, and explain one reason why using schema might not be useful when processing information from the world around us.

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24 marks

Briefly explain one strength and one limitation of the cognitive approach in psychology.

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18 marks

Outline and briefly discuss cognitive neuroscience.

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