ASSUMPTIONS of the Cognitive Approach:
- Internal mental processes such as memory, thinking, reasoning, problem-solving and language, are important features influencing human behaviour.
Strengths:
1) I- Usually scientific methodology. E- Lab exp to investigate mental processes, high control - can establish C & E between variables. C- L & P-Change one variable only- the verb in the critical Q, and measure its direct effect on its impact on memory (in the form of speed estimate when crashed). OR: E- Provides objective evidence that we can have confidence in. Reliable as quant data collected, so easily replicable. C- BC- Could be quickly & easily repeated to see if the findings are replicable, as it would be relatively easy to reproduce the eyes task and the other tasks on a simular grp of people. 2) I- Practical applications in every day life. E- Using research to benefit society. C- L & P- Police, eye-witness accounts-prevents leading Q's. - BC- It was established that autistics and people with aspergers have problems with reading facial expressions. Has improved diagnosis of Autism, raised awareness, provided treatment & support. |
Weaknesses:
1) I- Scientific, so artificial setting E- Unnatural behaviour, low in Ecol valid C- SR- Chimps are not in natural setting as are in captivity, so behaviour does not reflect the behaviour of chimps in the wild. E.g SR chimps watched TV, drank coke. 2) I- Reductionist- Ignores all other influences that could be affecting behaviour (only says cognitive approach responsible). E- Ignores how social factors, biology and individual differences influence ability to read emotions. C- BC- Cognitive approach ignores how autistics biology and genes may have contributed to their inability to read peoples emotions. |
Similarities & Differences between the Cognitive Approach studies summarised below in the Venn diagram: