In cognitive psychology, which term refers to the study of cognitive functions at the neural level?

Cognitive neuroscience is the field that explores the relationships between cognitive processes and the brain's neural mechanisms. It combines principles from psychology and neuroscience to understand how various cognitive functions, such as perception, memory, and decision-making, are represented and processed in the brain.

Research in cognitive neuroscience employs techniques like brain imaging (such as fMRI and PET scans), electrophysiological measures (like EEG), and other methods to assess brain activity and structure as individuals engage in cognitive tasks. This area provides insights into how neural circuits and brain regions contribute to different cognitive functions, thereby linking mental processes with biological underpinnings.

The other fields mentioned do not focus specifically on the neural aspects of cognitive processes. Behavioral psychology primarily deals with observable behaviors and does not consider cognitive functions at the neural level. Developmental psychology studies the changes in behavior and mental processes across a lifespan without directly examining neural mechanisms. Cognitive therapy is a type of therapeutic approach that focuses on changing maladaptive thinking patterns but does not involve a direct study of neural functions.