What is cognitive psychology primarily concerned with?

Cognitive psychology is primarily focused on the study of mental processes. This encompasses a broad range of cognitive functions such as perception, which is how we interpret sensory information; memory, which involves the storage and recall of information; reasoning, which allows for making inferences and judgments; and problem-solving, which is the process of finding solutions to complex issues. By concentrating on these internal processes, cognitive psychology seeks to understand how people acquire, process, and utilize information, making it distinct from other fields that might emphasize behavior or neurological aspects without delving into the underlying cognitive mechanisms.

The other options may represent important areas of study within psychology but do not encapsulate the central theme of cognitive psychology. While behavioral reactions to stimuli focus on observable actions and responses, emotional responses emphasize affective states rather than cognitive processes. On the other hand, the study of neurological functions pertains more to biological psychology or neuropsychology, which explores the brain's role in behavior, rather than the cognitive processes themselves. Therefore, the correct choice is grounded in the comprehensive understanding of how mental processes operate and influence human cognition.