What is the focus of cognitive psychology?

• A. The influence of others on behavior
• B. The unconscious desires and motives
• C. The mental processes involved in perception, memory, and decision-making
• D. The biological basis of behavior

Answer: (C)

Cognitive psychology centers on understanding how people perceive, think, remember, and make decisions. It examines the internal mental processes that affect our interactions with the world and how we process information. This field looks at various cognitive functions, such as memory, intelligence, problem-solving, and language, and seeks to uncover how these processes influence our behavior and actions.

The emphasis on mental processes distinguishes cognitive psychology from other psychological perspectives. For example, social psychology focuses on the impact of others on behavior, while psychodynamic approaches explore unconscious desires. Additionally, biological psychology analyzes the physical and biological bases of behavior, such as brain structure and neurotransmitters. In contrast, cognitive psychology is wholly concerned with the mechanics of thought and how these processes operate within individuals.