Mental Models

The internal representations that allow the cognitive system to simulate situations, predict outcomes, and reason about how the world works.

Levels of Analysis

Neural: prefrontal cortex, parietal cortex, hippocampal networks
Cognitive: representation building, simulation, prediction
Behavioral: interpreting situations, anticipating consequences, choosing actions

Inputs

• sensory information
• prior knowledge
• goals and intentions
• contextual cues
• assumptions and beliefs

Outputs

• structured internal representation of a situation
• predictions about future states
• evaluation of possible actions
• updated understanding of causal relations

Related Processes

• Abstraction
• Concept Formation
• Causal Reasoning
• Analogical Reasoning
• Mental Simulation
• Working Memory

Related Models

• Johnson‑Laird’s Mental Models Theory
• Predictive Processing
• Schema Theory
• Situation Model Framework

Related Biases

• Confirmation Bias
• Model-Based Anchoring
• Overgeneralization
• Illusory Causation

Example

A person mentally rehearses how a conversation might unfold before entering a meeting, predicting possible reactions and adjusting their approach.

Visual Schema

Input → Representation Construction → Simulation → Prediction → Action Selection