script theory

Script theory is a concept in cognitive psychology that explains how we organize knowledge about everyday events and experiences. It suggests that we store information in mental frameworks called "scripts," which are like outlines or templates for common situations. For example, a restaurant script includes expectations about entering, ordering, eating, and paying. These scripts help us predict what will happen in familiar situations, interpret new experiences, and remember details more easily. By using scripts, our brains simplify complex information, allowing us to navigate daily life more efficiently and understand social interactions better.