Higher psychological processes are the complex mental functions that allow human beings to process, interpret and modify the information they receive from the environment. These advanced cognitive abilities differentiate us from other species and are fundamental for thinking, problem solving, and adaptive behavior. In this article, we will explore the 8 key higher psychological processes and their importance in understanding the human mind.
Attention
Attention It is the process by which we direct our consciousness towards specific stimuli. It allows us to select relevant information, filter distractions and maintain focus on important tasks. Attention plays a crucial role in perception, learning, and decision-making, as it determines which aspects of the environment we consciously process.
Types of attention:
- Selective attention: focusing on certain stimuli while ignoring others.
- Sustained attention: maintaining concentration on a task for an extended period of time.
- Divided attention: processing multiple stimuli simultaneously .
Memory
Memory is the process of retaining, storing, and retrieving information in the brain. It is divided into several stages, such as sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory. Memory allows us to remember past events, learn new skills, and use prior knowledge to make decisions.
Types of memory:
- Declarative memory: retention of specific data and facts concrete.
- Procedural memory: motor skills and learned procedures.
- Semantic memory: general knowledge and abstract concepts.
Language
Language is the ability to communicate using symbols and grammatical rules to express thoughts, emotions and ideas. Language acquisition is a fundamental process in human development and is related to specific brain areas. Speaking, understanding and reading are linguistic skills that involve the understanding and production of sounds, words and phrases.
Aspects of language:
- Phonology: study of the sounds of language .
- Syntax: rules that govern the grammatical structure of sentences.
- Semantics: meaning of words and phrases.
Thought h2>
Thinking is the mental process through which we generate ideas, solve problems and make decisions. It involves the manipulation of information to reach conclusions and make logical inferences. Abstract, critical and creative thinking are advanced forms of cognitive processing that allow us to reason in complex ways.
Thinking styles:
- Convergent: focused on finding a correct solution to a problem.
- Divergent: exploration of multiple possibilities and creative solutions.
- Critical thinking: objective evaluation of information and arguments.
Resolution Problems
Problem solving is the ability to find effective solutions to complex or unknown situations. It involves identifying obstacles, evaluating alternatives and making decisions based on logical reasoning. Problem solving requires cognitive skills such as critical thinking, creativity and perspective taking.
Stages of problem solving:
- Identification of the problem.
- Identification of the problem.
- Generation of possible solutions.
- Evaluation of solutions.
- Selection of the best solution.
- Implementation and evaluation of the solution.
Decision Making
Decision making is the process of selecting among several available options in order to achieve a specific objective. It involves evaluating information, weighing consequences, and choosing the best alternative given the circumstances. Decision making is influenced by cognitive, emotional and situational factors.
Factors that influence decision making:
- Available data.
- Emotions and moods.
- Previous experiences.
- Social pressure.
Intelligence
Intelligence is the ability to understand, reason, plan and adapt to new situations. It manifests itself in various forms, such as verbal intelligence, logical-mathematical intelligence and emotional intelligence. Intelligence is a complex concept that is measured through psychometric tests and is crucial for academic and work performance.
Theories of intelligence:
- Theory of intelligence fluid and crystallized.
- Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences.
- Robert J. Sternberg's triarchic model of intelligence.
Motivation
Motivation is the internal drive that directs and energizes behavior toward specific goals. It is related to the search for rewards, the fulfillment of needs and the satisfaction of desires. Motivation can be intrinsic, when the gratification comes from the activity itself, or extrinsic, when it arises from external factors such as rewards or social recognition.
Theories of motivation:
- Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory.
- Intrinsic-Extrinsic Motivation Theory by Edward L. Deci and Richard M. Ryan.
- Self-Employment Theory determination of Richard M. Ryan and Edward L. Deci.
In conclusion, higher psychological processes are fundamental for the cognitive and emotional functioning of individuals. Understanding how attention, memory, language, thinking, problem solving, decision making, intelligence and motivation operate helps us appreciate the complexity of the human mind and improve our ability to adapt and thrive in environments. varied and challenging.