Paradigms

Question 1

What is the definition of a paradigm?

Answer 1

A set of assumptions, theories, methods, and terminology shared by psychologists.

Question 2

What is an example of a paradigm?

Answer 2

Each different ‘approach’ can be considered to have its own paradigms (behaviourist approach and social learning theory believe behaviour is learned differently).

Question 3

What are the two main phases in science?

Answer 3

• Normal science.

- Scientific revolution (paradigm shift).

Question 4

What is a ‘normal science’?

Answer 4

When a paradigm/ theory remains dominant despite occasional challenges from disconfirming studies.

Question 5

What is a paradigm shift?

Answer 5

This is where an established paradigm is challenged with disconfirming evidence to the point that a different paradigm takes its place (it is overthrown).

Question 6

What did Thomas Kuhn suggest about social sciences and paradigm shifts?

Answer 6

That a single paradigm shift is not possible with social sciences because there is no universally accepted paradigm (too many conflicting appraches and disagreements to qualify as a science).