Cognitive psychology is the scientific study of mental processes such as perception, memory, reasoning, and problem-solving, focusing on how people understand, diagnose, and respond to information. It emphasizes internal mental states and uses experimental methods to study how people acquire, process, and store information.
Schema theory posits that all knowledge is organized into units or frameworks, known as schemas, which help individuals understand and interpret information by providing a structure for experiences and expectations. These schemas are dynamic, evolving with new information and experiences, and play a critical role in cognitive processes such as memory, perception, and learning.
Unconscious cognition refers to mental processes occurring outside of conscious awareness that influence thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It plays a crucial role in decision-making, intuition, and problem-solving, offering insights into how much of the mind works behind the scenes.