The structure of attitudes can be explained in the forms of three components such as cognitive, affective, and behavioral components. The cognitive component can be defined in the following ways:
Definition (1):
The cognitive component of an attitude refers to the beliefs, opinions, knowledge, or information held by a person-for instance, the belief that “discrimination is wrong.”
Definition (2):
This component of attitudes indicates the attributes, beliefs, and thoughts that people would relate to an object. This is an attitude’s belief or opinion segment. It is the part of attitude related to a person’s general knowledge.
Definition (3):
It involves an individual’s knowledge or belief about an object. Sometimes, an individual’s attitude may be formed depending on the positive and negative attributes they relate to an object. For instance, “She believes dogs are dangerous.”
Generally, these components exist in stereotypes or generalities, such as ‘flowers are beautiful’, ‘smoking is injurious to health’, ‘walking is good for health’ etc.
Use of the Term in Sentences:
- The professor discussing the cognitive component of attitudes.
- Jane is doing research on the cognitive component of attitudes.