Which approach utilizes theoretical and computer models for understanding mental processes?

The cognitive psychology approach is indeed the one that utilizes theoretical and computer models to understand mental processes. This approach focuses on how people think, learn, remember, and perceive information. Cognitive psychologists often employ models that simulate human thought processes, which can range from simple algorithms to complex neural networks. These models help researchers formulate hypotheses about how various cognitive functions, such as attention, memory, and decision-making, work.

Cognitive psychology emerged as a reaction to behaviorism, which largely disregarded mental processes in favor of observable behavior. Unlike the psychoanalytic approach, which emphasizes unconscious processes and early development experiences, or the humanistic approach, which focuses on self-actualization and personal growth, cognitive psychology seeks to understand the workings of the mind through systematic study and modeling. By employing these theoretical frameworks and computational methods, cognitive psychology provides valuable insights into how individuals process information and interact with the world.