Chapter 1: Intro To Psychology (Terms)

Question 1

Functionalism

Answer 1

An early approach to psychology led by William James, that concentrated on what the mind does- the functions of mental activity- and the role of behavior in allowing people to adapt to their environments.

Question 2

Gestalt psychology

Answer 2

An approach to psychology that focuses on the organization of perception and thinking in a “whole” sense rather than on individual elements of perception.

Question 3

Neuroscience perspective

Answer 3

The approach that views behavior from the perspective of the brain, the nervous system, and other biological functions.

Question 4

Psychology

Answer 4

The scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

Question 5

Psychodynamic perspective

Answer 5

The approach based on the view that behavior is motivated by unconscious inner forces over which the individual has little control.

Question 6

Introspection

Answer 6

A procedure used to study the structure of the mind in which subjects are asked to describe in detail what they are experiencing when they are exposed to a stimulus.

Question 7

Structuralism

Answer 7

Wundt’s approach. Focuses on uncovering the fundamental mental components of consciousness, thinking, and other kinds of mental states and activities.

Question 8

Behavioral perspective

Answer 8

The approach that suggests that observable, measurable behavior should be the focus of study.

Question 9

Cognitive perspective

Answer 9

The approach that focuses on how people think, understand, and know about the world.

Question 10

Humanistic perspective

Answer 10

The approach that suggests that all individuals naturally strive to grow, develop, and be in control of their lives and behavior.

Question 11

Free will

Answer 11

The idea that behavior is caused primarily by choices that are made freely by the individual.

Question 12

Determinism

Answer 12

The idea that people’s behavior is produced primarily by factors outside of their willful control.