All the knowledge that a person has (for example, about the chemical and physical properties of objects, the arrangement of all things, etc.) is the result of the work of the human psyche. The leading role in this process is played by cognitive processes having a different level of complexity.
Each of them has its own characteristics and a special organization, making a unique contribution to the formation of a dynamic and holistic picture of the world. Cognitive processes occur simultaneously, but interact harmoniously and imperceptibly for a person.
A special role belongs to the sensory system, which, like a screen, projects the surrounding world in all the richness of forms and colors in our minds. Cognition begins with individual sensations (visual, auditory, gustatory, etc.). But thanks to perception, they add up to a variety of images. Each person has a large number of them.
If we talk about ontogenesis, then these cognitive processes (sensation and perception) are leading from birth to two to three years. But this is not enough for shaping the image of the world, since memory is also very important - the human ability, which is associated with the ability to remember, save, remember, recognize and forget a variety of information. After birth, the baby in consciousness has the so-called genetic information, thanks to which it develops in the first years of life. But his memory will allow him to learn and socialize, "absorbing" the results of human achievements. Very quickly, the child will master everything that will be extremely necessary for him to live a full life.
But cognitive processes are “headed” by thinking, which is understood to mean a psychic phenomenon that is socially and is inextricably linked with speech and is characterized by an indirect and generalized reflection of the interconnections and relationships between various objects. It is thinking that helps the younger person analyze the resulting and formed images, making up a bit of a picture of the world. This process goes through several stages in ontogenesis.
At the initial stage (up to three years), cognitive processes are “under the influence” of visual-effective thinking. The child perceives the world through the manipulation of surrounding objects, thanks to the integrated work of sensations, perceptions, memory and initial (external) actions.
At the second stage (from three to six to seven years), the formation of visual-figurative thinking begins . External actions, ideas about objects and phenomena of the surrounding world are internalized, that is, they move into an internal action plan. As a result, the child is now able to think in images, creating his own picture of the world.
But, in order to make it correct and structured, a matured person begins to develop verbal-logical thinking, which helps to understand the nuances and patterns of the world.
To alter and make it more vivid and creative will help the imagination, which is designed to form new images of the world.
The psychology of cognitive processes will be incomplete if you do not highlight the significant role of attention. It is it that helps a person concentrate on various phenomena of reality.
The development of cognitive processes must begin from the first days after the birth of a child. In this case, a state of mental deprivation should not occur (this is a basic principle). For this, it is necessary to ensure the presence of vivid, diverse sensations and impressions, as well as a constant change in occupations and activities. Adults need to keep in mind that the best way to achieve this is through play.