FlashcardsChapter01

Question 1

Adaptations

Answer 1

In evolutionary theory, the physical characteristics, skills, or abilities that increase the chances of reproduction or survival and are therefore likely to be passed along to future generations. (page 13)

Question 2

Behaviorism

Answer 2

A psychological approach that emphasizes the role of environmental forces in producing observable behavior. (page 15)

Question 3

Cognitive neuroscience

Answer 3

The study of the neural mechanisms underlying thought, learning, perception, language, and memory. (page 17)

Question 4

Critical thinking

Answer 4

Systematically questioning and evaluating information using well-supported evidence. (page 5)

Question 5

Culture

Answer 5

The beliefs, values, rules, and customs that exist within a group of people who share a common language and environment. (page 10)

Question 6

Evolutionary theory

Answer 6

A theory presented by the naturalist Charles Darwin; it views the history of a species in terms of the inherited, adaptive value of physical characteristics, of mental activity, and of behavior. (page 13)

Question 7

Functionalism

Answer 7

An approach to psychology concerned with the adaptive purpose, or function, of mind and behavior. (page 13)

Question 8

Gestalt theory

Answer 8

A theory based on the idea that the whole of personal experience is different from the sum of its constituent elements. (page 15)

Question 9

Humanistic psychology

Answer 9

This approach focuses on the basic goodness of people and how they become happier and more fulfilled. (page 16)

Question 10

Introspection

Answer 10

A systematic examination of subjective mental experiences that requires people to inspect and report on the content of their thoughts. (page 12)

Question 11

Mind/body problem

Answer 11

A fundamental psychological issue: Are mind and body separate and distinct, or is the mind simply the physical brain’s subjective experience? (page 10)

Question 12

Natural selection

Answer 12

In evolutionary theory, the idea that those who inherit characteristics that help them adapt to their particular environments have a selective advantage over those who do not. (page 13)

Question 13

Nature/nurture debate

Answer 13

The arguments concerning whether psychological characteristics are biologically innate or acquired through education, experience, and culture. (page 10)

Question 14

Psychoanalysis

Answer 14

A method developed by Sigmund Freud that attempts to bring the contents of the unconscious into conscious awareness so that conflicts can be revealed. (page 14)

Question 15

Psychological science

Answer 15

The study, through research, of mind, brain, and behavior. (page 4)

Question 16

Stream of consciousness

Answer 16

A phrase coined by William James to describe each person’s continuous series of ever-changing thoughts. (page 12)

Question 17

Structuralism

Answer 17

An approach to psychology based on the idea that conscious experience can be broken down into its basic underlying components. (page 12)

Question 18

Unconscious

Answer 18

The place where mental processes operate below the level of conscious awareness. (page 14)