Wed, 16 Oct 2024 15:32:12 GMT
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With new digital tools for retrieval practice and active learning, the Eighth Edition is more effective and engaging than ever. Four exciting features deliver a dynamic, interactive introduction to cognitive psychology today:
Chapter 1: Introduction to Cognition
This chapter introduces the field of cognition, which studies mental processes such as attention, memory, language, and problem-solving. It discusses the different approaches to studying cognition, including behavioral, cognitive, and neuroscience perspectives.
Real-life example: A student taking an exam may experience anxiety and distraction, which can affect their attention and performance.
Chapter 2: Perception and Attention
This chapter explores how we take in and process information from our environment. It examines perceptual processes like vision, hearing, and touch, as well as factors that influence attention, such as selective attention and the cockpit effect.
Real-life example: A driver may be distracted by a ringing phone while driving, impairing their attention to the road.
Chapter 3: Memory
This chapter describes the different types of memory, including sensory, short-term, and long-term memory. It discusses the mechanisms of encoding, storage, and retrieval, as well as factors that affect memory performance, like forgetting and memory errors.
Real-life example: A student may struggle to remember exam material due to inadequate encoding or interference from other information.
Chapter 4: Language
This chapter examines the nature of language, including its structure, meaning, and use. It discusses the processes involved in language processing, such as speech perception, comprehension, and production.
Real-life example: A speaker may use gestures and intonation to convey meaning beyond the words themselves.
Chapter 5: Problem-Solving and Reasoning
This chapter explores how we solve problems and make decisions. It discusses different types of problem-solving strategies, including algorithms, heuristics, and insight. It also examines biases and errors in reasoning.
Real-life example: A lawyer may use deductive reasoning to argue a case in court.
Chapter 6: Emotion and Cognition
This chapter examines the relationship between emotion and cognition. It discusses how emotions can influence our thoughts, memories, and behaviors. It also explores the role of cognition in regulating emotions.
Real-life example: A person who is anxious may have difficulty concentrating and making decisions.
Chapter 7: Consciousness
This chapter investigates the nature of consciousness and its relationship to cognition. It discusses different theories of consciousness, such as the global workspace theory and the integrated information theory.
Real-life example: A person who is dreaming may experience a vivid and coherent subjective reality.
Chapter 8: Cognitive Development
This chapter explores the development of cognitive abilities across the lifespan. It examines the changes in attention, memory, language, and problem-solving that occur during childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.
Real-life example: A baby may develop object permanence, the understanding that objects continue to exist even when out of sight.
Chapter 9: Cognitive Disorders
This chapter discusses various cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and traumatic brain injury. It examines the specific cognitive impairments associated with each disorder and the potential treatments available.
Real-life example: A person with Alzheimer's disease may experience memory loss and difficulty performing everyday tasks.
