Introduction Flashcards
Behaviour is…
Any observable action made by a living person or animal.
What is the definition of Psychology?
Psychology is the systematic study of behaviour and mental processes.
Mental processes are…
An individuals thoughts and feelings that are personal and cannot directly be observed.
Why is Psychology classified as a Science?
Psychology uses empirical evidence to substantiate theories and explanations.
Empirical evidence is…
Information that is obtained by observation, experimentation and experience.
State the difference between a psychologists and a psychiatrist.
Psychiatrists are allowed to prescribe medicines and treatment as they have a degree in medical science, unlike psychologists.
Define functionalism.
Functionalism focuses on studying the functions or purpose mental processes serve in enabling people to adapt to their environment.
Define structuralism.
Structuralism focuses on the structure of consciousness, that is, the basic parts or building blocks that make up consciousness, how the parts are organised and how they are interrelated.
Define psychoanalysis.
Psychoanalysis focuses on the roles of unconscious conflicts and motivations in understanding and explaining behaviour and mental processes.
Define behaviourism.
Behaviourism involves understanding and explaining how behaviour is learnt and moulded by experience.
Define humanism.
Also known as humanistic psychology, humanism is an approach to understanding and explaining behaviour and mental processes focuses on the uniqueness of each individual and the positive qualities and potential of all human beings to fulfil their lives.
