Which perspective focuses on how an individual interprets an event and applies it to their behavior?

The cognitive perspective emphasizes how individuals perceive, interpret, and process information and experiences. This approach is centered on mental processes such as thinking, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making. When considering how an individual interprets an event, cognitive psychologists investigate how these interpretations influence attitudes, emotions, and ultimately behavior.

For example, if someone faces a stressful situation, the cognitive perspective would suggest that their interpretation of that stress—whether they view it as a challenge or a threat—will determine how they respond to it. This perspective is fundamental in understanding psychological phenomena, as it highlights the active role of the mind in shaping experiences and actions. In contrast, other perspectives may focus on different aspects of psychology: the biological perspective looks at physiological influences, the behavioral perspective examines observable behaviors often disregarding mental processes, and the social-cultural perspective emphasizes the environmental and societal influences on behavior.