Schema (psychology)

Schema (pronunciation: /ˈskiːmə/; etymology: from Greek σχῆμα, 'shape, figure') in the field of Psychology, refers to a cognitive framework or concept that helps individuals organize and interpret information. Schemas can be useful because they allow us to take shortcuts in interpreting a vast amount of information.

Definition

A Schema is a mental structure we use to organize and simplify our knowledge of the world around us. It's a way of organizing information that allows the brain to work more efficiently.

History

The concept of Schema was first introduced by Jean Piaget, a Swiss developmental psychologist known for his theories of cognitive development in children. Piaget used the term to refer to the mental frameworks that children develop to understand the world around them.

Types of Schemas

There are several types of schemas, including:

Self-schemas - These schemas are centered around the perception of oneself.
Social schemas - These schemas help us understand and interpret the social world.
Event schemas - Also known as scripts, these schemas help us understand the sequence of events in certain situations.

Role in Psychology

In Psychology, schemas play a crucial role in how we process and interpret information. They help us predict what will happen in certain situations based on our past experiences. Schemas also influence our attention, as we are more likely to notice things that fit into our schema.

Related Terms

Cognitive Psychology - The study of mental processes such as attention, language use, memory, perception, problem solving, creativity, and thinking.
Cognitive Development - The development of thought processes, including remembering, problem solving, and decision-making, from childhood through adolescence to adulthood.
Jean Piaget - A Swiss psychologist known for his work on child development.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Schema (psychology)
Wikipedia's article - Schema (psychology)

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Schema (psychology)