intro to psych Flashcards
what is psychology
Psychology is a scientific discipline that systematically studies and explores the complexities of the mind and behaviour using rigorous empirical methods and a commitment to objectivity and evidence-based inquiry.
characteristics of scientific methods
empirical, systematic, logical and rational, objective and unbiased
the empirical research cycle
statement of the problem
design of research study
measurement of variables
analysis of data
conclusions from research
main steps of scientific method
- observation
- research
- hypothesis
- experimentation
- data collection
- analysis
- conclusion
- reporting
- verification and validation
- theory developement.
types of data collection methods
questionnaires, experiments, interviews, natural observations, case studies.
goals of psych
description, explanation, prediction, control, improvment,
ethicall guidelines
informed consent, voluntary participation, the use of deception, debriefing, withdrawal rights, confidentiality, anonymity, and minimization of harm
quantitative data
Quantitative data are numerical, obtained through structured methods, and analysed using statistical techniques to reveal patterns and relationships.
qualitative data
Qualitative data are non-numerical, gathered through open-ended methods, and analysed to extract themes and meanings, providing a deeper understanding of complex phenomena.
code of ethics
Ethical guidelines are designed to protect the well-being, rights, and dignity of research participants, as well as to ensure the integrity and credibility of the research process.
ethical guidlines
informed consent, voluntary participation, the use of deception, debriefing, withdrawal rights, confidentiality and anonymity, minimization of harm
biosychosocial framework
Is an approach to describing how biological, psychological and social factors combine and interact to influence a person’s physical and mental health
biological factprs - biosychosocial framework
involve physiologically based or determined influences, often not under our control, such as inherited genes and neurochemistry
psychological factors - biosychosocial framwork
involve all those influences associated with mental processes – thinking, learning, making decisions, manage stress etc
social factors - biosychosical factors
include the skills of interacting with others, interpersonal relationships, support available, cultural values, exposure to stress, educational and employment history, income level.
