The Cognitive Approach 2
Psychology: AQA A Level, topic 5.1.7
The Use of Models
Internal mental processes can’t be studied directly. The cognitive approach makes use models to explain behaviour.
Indirect observation
- Cognitive psychologists can’t look inside someone’s head to see thought processes and schemas - these must be studied indirectly.
Making inferences
- Learning about mental processes by observing behaviour is called making inferences.
- Cognitive psychologists use these inferences to build and test models and theories about how the mind works.
Test yourself on The Cognitive Approach 2
What is learning about mental processes by observing behaviour called?