Cognitive Schemas

Cognitive schemas are mental frameworks or patterns that help us understand and interpret the world based on past experiences and beliefs. They act as internal templates, guiding how we perceive new information, respond to situations, and form judgments. For example, if someone has a schema that relationships are unreliable, they might be more cautious or distrustful in new relationships. Schemas are useful because they make processing information more efficient, but they can also lead to biased or automatic responses if the schemas are negative or inaccurate. Essentially, they shape how we see ourselves and others around us.