What theory does E.C. Tolman’s concept of cognitive maps relate to?

E.C. Tolman's concept of cognitive maps is fundamentally connected to cognitive psychology, which focuses on the internal processes of the mind, such as perception, memory, and reasoning. Cognitive maps are mental representations that allow individuals to navigate their environment based on learned information. Tolman's research demonstrated that animals and humans can create these mental maps based on their experiences and knowledge, rather than solely relying on observable behaviors, which is a key principle of cognitive psychology. This approach contrasts with behaviorism, which emphasizes observable behaviors and external stimuli, and illustrates how cognitive processes shape navigation and understanding of spatial relationships. Additionally, cognitive psychology explores the idea that learning involves not just reinforcement or punishment but also internal mental states and cognitive processes that contribute to how we interact with our environment.