Approaches key terms Flashcards
Introspection
The first systematic experimental attempt to study the mind by breaking up conscious awareness into basic structures of thoughts, images and sensations.
Psychology
The scientific study of the mind, behavior and experiences.
Science
A means of acquiring knowledge through systematic and objective investigation. The aim is to discover general laws.
Behaviorist approach
A way of explaining behavior in terms of what is observable and in terms of learning.
Classical conditioning
Learning by association. Occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired together- an unconditioned stimuli and a neutral stimuli. The neutral stimulus eventually produces the same response as the unconditioned stimulus.
Operant conditioning
A form of learning in which behavior is shaped and maintained by its consequences. Possible consequences of behavior include reinforcement and punishment’s.
Reinforcement
A consequence of behavior that increases the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated. Can be positive or negative.
Social learning theory
A way of explaining behavior including both direct and indirect reinforcement, combining learning theory with the role of cognitive features.
Imitation
Copying the behavior of others.
Identification
When an observer associates themselves with a role model and wants to be like that role model.
Modelling
From the observers perspective, modelling is imitating the behavior of a role model. From the role models perspective , modelling is the precise demonstration of a specific behavior that may be imitated by the observer.
Vicarious reinforcement
Reinforcement which is not directly experienced but occurs through observing someone else being reinforced for a behavior. This is key factor in imitation.
Mediational processes
Cognitive factors that influence learning and come between stimulus and response.
Cognitive approach
The term ‘cognitive’ has come to mean ‘mental processes’ , so this approach is focused on how our mental processes (eg thoughts , perception, and attention) affect behavior.
Internal mental processes
‘Private’ operations of the mind such as perception and attention that mediate between stimulus and response.
Schema
A mental framework of beliefs and expectations that influence cognitive processing. They are developed from experience.
Inference
The process whereby cognitive psychologists draw conclusions about the way mental processes operate on the basis of observed behavior.
Cognitive neuroscience
The scientific study of those biological structures that underpin cognitive processes.
Biological approach
A perspective that emphasizes the importance of physical processes in the body such a genetic inheritance and neutral function.
Genes
They make up chromosomes and consist of DNA which codes the physical features of an organism and psychological features. Genes are transmitted from parents to offspring.
Biological structure
An arrangement or organization of parts to form an organ, system or living thing.
Neurochemistry
Relating to chemicals in the brain that regulate psychological functioning.
Genotype
The particular set of genes a person possesses.
Phenotype
The characteristics of an individual determined by both genes and the environment.
Evolution
The changes in inherited characteristics in a biological population over successive generations.
Psychodynamic approach
A perspective that describes the different forces , most of which are unconscious, that operate on the human mind and direct human behavior and experience.
The unconscious
The part of the mind that we are unaware of but directs much of our behavior.
Id
Entirely unconscious, the Id is made up of selfish aggressive instincts that demand immediate gratification.
Ego
The ‘reality check’ that balances the conflicting demands of the Id and the Superego.
Superego
The moralistic part of our personality which represents the self ideal- how we ought to be.
Defense mechanism
Unconscious strategies that the Ego uses to manage the conflict between the Id and the Superego.
Psychosexual stages
Five developmental stages that all children pass through. At each stage there is a different conflict, the outcome of which determines future development.
Humanistic psychology
An approach to understanding behavior that emphasizes the importance of subjective experience and each persons capacity for self-determination.
Free will
The notion that humans can make choices and are not determined by internal biological or external forces.
Self-actualisation
The desire to grow psychologically and fulfil ones full potential- becoming what you are capable of.
Hierarchy of needs.
A five-leveled hierarchal sequence in which basic psychological needs (such as hunger) must be satisfied before the higher psychological needs (self-actualization) can be achieved.
Self
The ideas and values that characterize ‘I’ and ‘me’ and includes perception and valuing of ‘what I am’ and ‘what I can do’.
Congruence
The aim of Rogerian therapy, when the self-concept and ideal self are broadly accord or match.
Conditions of worth
When a parent places limits or boundaries on their love of their children.
