Prologue - Vocabulary

Question 1

Thinking that does not automatically accept arguments and conclusions. Rather, it examines assumptions, appraises the source, discerns hidden biases, evaluates evidence, and assesses conclusions

Answer 1

Critical Thinking

Question 2

An early school of thought promoted by Wundt and Titchener; used introspection to reveal the structure of the human mind

Answer 2

Structuralism

Question 3

An early school of thought promoted by James and influenced by Darwin; explored how mental and behavioral processes function—how they enable the organism to adapt, survive, and flourish.

Answer 3

Functionalism

Question 4

The view that psychology (1) should be an objective science that (2) studies behavior without reference to mental processes. Most psychologists today agree with (1) but not with (2).

Answer 4

Behaviorism

Question 5

Historically significant perspective that emphasized human growth potential

Answer 5

Humanistic Psychology

Question 6

The study of mental processes, such as occur when we perceive, learn, remember, think, communicate, and solve problems

Answer 6

Cognitive Psychology

Question 7

The study of the evolution of behavior and the mind, using principles of natural selection.

Answer 7

Evolutionary Psychology

Question 8

The study of the relative power and limits of genetic and environmental influences on behavior

Answer 8

Behavior Genetics

Question 9

The scientific study of human flourishing, with the goals of discovering and promoting strengths and virtues that help individuals and communities to thrive

Answer 9

Positive Psychology

Question 10

An integrated approach that incorporates biological, psychological, and social-cultural levels of analysis

Answer 10

Biopsychosocial Approach

Question 11

A branch of psychology that assists people with problems in living (often related to school, work, or relationships) and in achieving greater well-being

Answer 11

Counseling Psychology

Question 12

A branch of psychology that studies, assesses, and treats people with psychological disorders

Answer 12

Clinical Psychology

Question 13

A branch of medicine dealing with psychological disorders; practiced by physicians who sometimes provide medical (for example, drug) treatments as well as psychological therapy

Answer 13

Psychiatry

Question 14

A branch of psychology that studies how people interact with their social environments and how social institutions (such as schools and neighborhoods) affect individuals and groups

Answer 14

Community Psychology