Introduction to Psychology (Chapter 1) Flashcards
What is Psychology
The study of behaviour and the mind
Sub-fields of Psychology
- Cognitive
- Biopsychology/Neuroscience
- Developmental
- Experimental
- Industrial/Organizational
- Personality
- Social
Confirmation Bias
When one focuses solely on data that conforms to what we already believe, and minimize data that is inconsistent with our beliefs.
How do we limit biases in science?
-Use specific measures, tests and instruments to improve objectivity
-Inter-rater reliability test (Use multiple researchers with same criteria)
-Highly controlled experimental designs
Research is published and peer reviewed
Critical Thinking
Actively thinking about information that is being received.
- Is source credible?
- Any other explanation being ignored/minimized?
- How strong is evidence?
- Is the conclusion reasonable?
Goals of Psychology
- To DESCRIBE how people and animals behave
- To EXLAIN and UNDERSTAND causes of behaviour
- To PREDICT how people will behave under certain conditions
- To INFLUENCE behaviour through knowledge and control of underlying causes to enhance wellbeing
Name the two types of research
Basic: Describes behaviour and factors that cause it.
Applied: Uses what is learned through Basic research to solve problems in the real world.
What are the three Levels of Analysis
Biological (genes/hormones/brain processes)
Psychological (emotions/thoughts/behaviours)
Social: Family/culture/group influences
Mind-Body Interactionism
Dynamic associations and relationships between biological and psychological factors
How does Nature vs. Nurture influence behaviour?
Behaviour is influenced by BOTH one’s biological predispositions (Nature) as well as one’s upbringing and environment (Nurture). It is not an either/or debate
What are the Dualism and Monism perspectives in Psychology?
Dualism: Mind is separate from body; cannot learn about the mind through the body
Monism: Mind and body are one; the mind can be studied through examining the body
What is Structuralism?
Process of understanding and analyzing the mind through the component parts.
Developed by Wilhelm Wundt and Edward Titchener.
It was akin to sciences (ie. chemistry) of the time)
Used introspection to examine mental processes,a nd was therefore quite subjective
What is Functionalism?
The understanding of the mind through behaviour and function (what is it meant to do and why?)
Developed by William James.
Highly influenced by evolutionary theory, namely the concept of adaptation.
What are the 6 main Perspectives in Psychology?
- Psychodynamic
- Behavioural
- Humanistic
- Cognitive
- Socio-Cultural
- Biological
Explain the Psychodynamic Perspective
Behaviour results from personality and subconscious internal conflict
Developed by Sigmund Freud, who preferred “Free Association” technique (what is the first thing to come to mind?)
Freud’s Theory: Humans are naturally aggressive, and develop defences to conceal/suppress urges. Abnormal behaviours are a result of inner conflict
This perspective was controversial, and hard to prove
Modern psychodynamic perspective focuses on the unconscious mind and early relationships.
Explain the Behavioural Perspective
The external environment shapes our behaviour; we are shaped by our experiences
Notable proponents were John Locke, Ivan Pavlov, Edward Thorndike
What is Behaviourism?
The belief that learning is a result of environmental manipulation and control (John Watson and B.F. Skinner)
By altering the environment, one can decrease problem behaviours (ie. Token Economy)
Useful in treating some mental disorders
Explain the Humanistic perspective
High regard for the human potential, such as free will, personal growth, finding meaning, and positive self-worth
Abraham Maslov believed that humans desire self-actualization, which can be fostered and hindered by the environment
Carl Rogers focused on research into self-esteem, self-concept, self-worth, and psychotherapy
Positive Psychology rooted in Humanistic Psychology
Explain the Cognitive Perspective
Focuses on how mental processes impact and influence behaviour
Has roots in Structuralism and Functionalism
Noam Chomsky believed language was preprogrammed in humans
Jean Pinget noted that cognitive processes became more complex through development into adulthood
Modern Cognitive Psychology examine reasoning, problem solving, memory and concentration
Explain the Socio-Cultural Perspective
One’s social environment and cultural background influence behaviour
Other people and social factors contribute to behavioural influences, especially thoughts and feelings
How culture is developed is different between different cultures
What are Cultures and Norms?
Cultures: Enduring beliefs of a large group of people
Norms: Unwritten rules that guide behaviour within a group
Explain Individualism and Collectivism.
Individualism: Personal goals are emphasized, and there is a high focus upon the self
Collectivism: Needs of the group are emphasized, personal goals are less important.
Explain the Biological Perspective
Focuses upon how the nervous system impacts and regulates behaviour.
Karl Lashley and Donald Hebb research led to the discovery of Neurotransmitterss
Behavioural Neuroscience: How do brain processes and physiological functions affect thoughts and emotions?
Behavioural Genetics: What is the role of genetics in behaviour?
Evolutionary Psychology: What is the role of evolution in behaviour?
