Cognitive Psychology
Definition:
Cognitive psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on understanding how people think, learn, remember, and solve problems. It looks at the internal mental processes that happen in our minds, rather than just our behaviors.
Usage Instructions:
When you use the term "cognitive psychology," you can refer to studies, theories, or practices related to mental processes. It is often used in academic or professional contexts.
Example Sentence:
"The psychologist used principles from cognitive psychology to help her patients improve their memory skills."
Advanced Usage:
In more advanced discussions, cognitive psychology may relate to various subfields, such as cognitive neuroscience (which studies the brain's role in mental processes) or cognitive behavioral therapy (a type of therapy that combines cognitive and behavioral principles).
Word Variants:
- Cognitive (adjective): Relating to mental processes.
- Example: "Cognitive development is important in early childhood."
Different Meanings:
While "cognitive psychology" specifically refers to the psychological approach, the word "cognitive" can also be used more broadly in different contexts, such as cognitive skills (abilities related to thinking and understanding) or cognitive decline (a decrease in cognitive abilities often seen in aging).
Synonyms:
- Mental psychology - Cognitive science (a broader field that includes cognitive psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, and philosophy)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "cognitive psychology," but you might encounter phrases related to thinking, such as: - "Think outside the box": To think creatively or differently about a problem. - "Put on your thinking cap": To start thinking seriously about something.