CH 1 Questions Flashcards
Psychology and Scientific Thinking
Why are mental processes referred to as associated causes of behaviour in psychology?
In theory, mental processes are subjective experiences generated by the physical brain; As a discipline of science, everything in psychology is ultimately a part of a physical universe—therefore, the “mind” is an assumed label for what the brain does.
As a science, Psychology (1)________, (2)________,
(3)________ behaviour + mental processes through (4)________ — (5)________ facts, and the use of (6)________ ________.
- Describes
- Observes,
- Explains
- Empirical
- Verifiable
- Healthy skepticism
What does psychological research include?
The application of findings to the solution of practical problems
With theories, Psychology is ___________ ___________
Theoretically diverse
What is psychology effected by?
Like all sciences, psychology operates in a socio-historical context (zeitgeist).
- It is effected by socio-historic values: what studies people choose to fund; what people are historically interested in (what generally benefits the economy)
(Key points) Psychology is ________, ________, ________.
- Empirical
- Theoretically diverse
- Operates in a socio-historical context
What are the 2 types of research?
- Basic research
- Applied research
What are the 3 levels of analysis?
Micro: Brain processes (neurons, neuron structure)
Molecular: Responses of the individual (behaviour performance, cause of behaviour)
Molar: Groups (Social psychology; groups influence behaviour)
Why is behaviour complex?
It is multiply determined
What are the 2 determining factors of behaviour?
Dispositional factors: Personal, Internal causes (nature)
Situational factors: Environmental or external (nurture)
(Key points) Behaviour is … (4)
- Multiply determined
- Shaped by our cultural heritage (sociocultural)
- Determined by the interaction between heredity + environment (nature vs nurture)
- Based on our highly subjective experiences
