Cognitive psychology emerged as a significant field in the mid-20th century. It focused on understanding humans' internal mental processes. This approach emphasizes how people perceive, remember, think, and solve problems—elements critical to human cognition.
Previously dominated by behaviorism, which prioritized observable behaviors and largely ignored mental processes, psychology transformed in the 1950s. Cognitive psychologists argue that understanding how we think and process information is crucial for explaining behaviors. This shift, often referred to as the "cognitive revolution," led to a renewed focus on the mind rather than just behavior.
Key figures such as Jean Piaget, Ulric Neisser, and George Miller played pivotal roles in advancing cognitive psychology. Jean Piaget pioneered the study of cognitive development in children, demonstrating how their thinking evolves distinctly from adults. Ulric Neisser, regarded as the father of cognitive psychology, defined the scope of the field in his seminal book "Cognitive Psychology." George Miller made significant contributions to the understanding of memory and cognitive processes and is famous for introducing the concept of the "magical number seven" in information processing.
Over time, cognitive psychology has expanded its horizons, evolving into cognitive neuroscience. This interdisciplinary field integrates brain science to explore how neural activity supports cognitive processes. Advanced techniques like MRI and fMRI have become indispensable tools for cognitive neuroscientists, empowering them to visualize and comprehend brain functions associated with cognitive processes.
Cognitive psychology has profoundly influenced not only psychology but also related fields like linguistics, computer science, and neuroscience, promoting a comprehensive approach to studying the mind and behavior.
