What is the primary focus of schema theory?

The primary focus of schema theory is to understand how we organize our knowledge into structures called schemas. Schemas are cognitive frameworks or concepts that help individuals organize and interpret information based on prior experiences and knowledge. They allow us to make sense of the world by categorizing and relating new information to existing knowledge. For instance, a schema about dogs may include characteristics like fur, barking, or fetching. This organizational process plays a crucial role in how we learn, remember, and understand new concepts, making schema theory foundational for cognitive psychology.

The other options, while related to aspects of cognition, do not encapsulate the essence of schema theory. Understanding emotional responses to stimuli focuses on emotional intelligence and reactions rather than cognitive organization. The influence of the environment on behavior pertains more to behavioral psychology than to schema organization. Analyzing the impact of memory on learning addresses aspects of cognitive function but does not specifically focus on the structuring of knowledge through schemas, which is central to schema theory.