Introduction to Psychology

Question 1

What are the three perspectives and seven viewpoints in Psychology?

Answer 1

Biological Perspectives (body)
o Biopsychosocial view, Evolutionary view

Psychological Perspectives (mind)
o Behaviourist view, Cognitive view,
Psychodynamic view, Humanistic view

Sociocultural Perspectives (context)
o Sociocultural view

Question 2

Explain biopsychosocial view.

Answer 2

o Behaviour is the result of physical, chemical, bodily processes
o Focus: on brain and nervous system

Question 3

Explain evolutionary view.

Answer 3

o Human and animal behaviour is caused by evolution

o Focus: historically, what was advantageous for survival

Question 4

Explain behaviourist view.

Answer 4

o Behaviour is shaped and controlled by environment

o Focus: rewards/punishment, learning

Question 5

Explain cognitive view.

Answer 5

o Behaviour is caused by how we understand information (mental processing of information)
o Focus: memory, decision-making, judgement, thinking

Question 6

Explain humanistic view

Answer 6

o Behaviour is caused by self-image, need for growth

o Focus: human problems and potentials, self-actualization (how to be the best version of yourself)

Question 7

Explain sociocultural view.

Answer 7

o Behaviour is shaped by the world in which a person is born in, grows up, and lives in
o Focus: human interaction, social norms (e.g. What’s what socially acceptable), cultural practices

Question 8

Explain the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist.

Answer 8

o Psychiatrist prescribe medications and require medical backgrounds. They use talk therapy, medications, and other treatments to treat people with mental health.
o Psychologist have an advanced degree, such as a PhD or PsyD. Most commonly, they use talk therapy to treat mental health conditions.