Chapter 1.3 Flashcards
Structuralism
Too much individual bias; focused on breaking down consciousness into basic elements.
Functionalism
More objective than Structuralism but too reductive; focused on the function of consciousness.
Psychoanalytic & Gestalt Perspectives
Emphasized looking at the whole being, including the unconscious mind (Freud).
Behaviorism
Rejected vague, abstract psychology; focused only on observable behavior.
Humanistic Psychology
Emphasized the whole person, emotions, and personal growth.
Research Methods in Psychology
Uses the scientific method to test behavioral questions through observational, correlational, or experimental studies.
Research Process - Step 1
Formulate a testable hypothesis – a tentative statement predicting the relationship between variables.
Research Process - Step 2
Design the study and collect data using descriptive, non-experimental, or experimental methods.
Research Process - Step 3
Analyze data using statistical methods to summarize and draw conclusions.
Research Process - Step 4
Report findings via publication, professional conferences, and replication studies.
Variables
Factors that change; can have multiple values (e.g., dosage levels, instructional methods, temperature).
Operational Definition
Clearly defines variables for measurement and precision (e.g., defining ‘hunger’ or ‘aggression’ with specific criteria).
Population vs. Sample
Population = entire group; Sample = subset of the population used in research.
Random Sampling
Ensures every member of a population has an equal chance of being selected.
Representative Sample
A sample that matches the population’s demographics to avoid bias.
Random Assignment
Used in experiments to randomly place participants in different conditions to eliminate bias.
Non-Experimental Research
Observes, describes, and correlates variables without manipulation.
Experimental Research
Manipulates variables to test cause-and-effect relationships (Does X affect Y?).
