cognitive map

[/ˈkɒɡnɪtɪv mæp/]
nounpl: cognitive maps
mapa cognitivo
1. A mental representation of spatial relationships and environmental layout that individuals develop through experience and memory
The tourist developed a cognitive map of the city after walking its streets for several days.
O turista desenvolveu um mapa cognitivo da cidade após caminhar pelas suas ruas por vários dias.
2. An internal model of how an organism perceives, organizes, and navigates through physical or abstract spaces
Rats use cognitive maps to find their way through mazes even when obstacles are introduced.
Ratos usam mapas cognitivos para encontrar o caminho através de labirintos mesmo quando obstáculos são introduzidos.
3. A psychological construct representing mental organization of knowledge about geographical locations, relationships, and distances
Your cognitive map of your hometown differs from satellite imagery due to selective memory and familiarity.
Seu mapa cognitivo de sua cidade natal difere da imagem de satélite devido à memória seletiva e familiaridade.
The term 'cognitive map' is primarily used in academic contexts within both Brazilian and American psychology, neuroscience, and environmental studies. It gained prominence through Edward Tolman's behavioral psychology research in the mid-20th century. The concept is less commonly used in everyday colloquial speech and is predominantly found in scientific literature, university courses, and professional discussions about spatial cognition and navigation behavior.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
mental mapspatial representationmental modelinternal representation

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
mapa cognitivo
Standard term used in psychology and cognitive science texts
São Paulo
mapa cognitivo
Commonly used in academic and research contexts
Rio de Janeiro
mapa cognitivo
Used in psychological and neuroscience studies
Portugal
mapa cognitivo
European Portuguese uses the same term with identical meaning

Related Words

spatial cognitionenvironmental psychologywayfindingmental imagerynavigationplace memory

Related Idioms & Phrases

have a cognitive map of something
build a cognitive map
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