The cognitive theory of psychology focuses on internal mental processes such as thinking, memory, problem-solving, and language. It posits that individuals actively process information from their environment, rather than passively responding to stimuli. This theory emerged as a reaction against behaviorism, which emphasized observable behaviors. Key figures include Jean Piaget, who studied cognitive development in children, and Albert Bandura, known for his social cognitive theory. Cognitive psychologists often use models to represent mental processes, such as the information-processing model which likens the mind to a computer.