PSY 106 Flashcards
What is a theory?
In psychology, a theory is a systematic and organized set of concepts, definitions, and propositions that explain or predict phenomena related to mental processes and behavior.
Explain behavioral theory
Behavioral theory, also known as behaviorism, is a school of thought in psychology that emphasizes the study of observable behaviors and the role of the environment in shaping these behaviors. This theory posits that all behaviors are learned through interactions with the environment and can be changed through conditioning. The roots of behaviorism can be traced back to the early 20th century, with contributions from psychologists such as John B. Watson, Ivan Pavlov, and B.F. Skinner.
Explain cognitive theory
Cognitive theory in psychology focuses on how people process information, solve problems, and make decisions. It emphasizes mental processes such as perception, memory, and thinking, and how these processes influence behavior. The theory suggests that our thoughts and interpretations of events shape our behavior, emotions, and reactions.
Explain biological theory
Biological theory in psychology examines the physiological bases of behavior in humans and animals. It posits that behavior, emotions, and thoughts are strongly influenced by biological processes and structures, such as genetics, brain function, neurotransmitters, and the endocrine system. This perspective often involves studying the brain’s anatomy and activity, the role of genes in behavior, and the impact of hormones and other biochemical factors. It integrates knowledge from various fields, including neuroscience, genetics, and physiology, to understand how biological factors contribute to psychological phenomena.
Explain developmental theory
Developmental theory in psychology examines how individuals grow, change, and develop across their lifespan. It explores the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes that occur from infancy through old age. Developmental psychologists study factors such as genetics, parenting styles, cultural influences, and environmental experiences that shape development.
Explain the psychoanalytic theory
Psychoanalytic theory, founded by Sigmund Freud, posits that human behavior is influenced by unconscious motives and conflicts. Key components include the id (instinctual desires), the ego (rational thought), and the superego (moral standards). Freud’s model suggests that childhood experiences shape personality and behavior through the development of these three structures. Techniques like free association, dream analysis, and transference are used to uncover unconscious conflicts. Freud’s work laid the groundwork for various other psychoanalytic and psychodynamic approaches in psychology.
Abraham Maslow’s contribution to psychology
Abraham Maslow contributed significantly to psychology through his Hierarchy of Needs, which arranges human needs in a pyramid from basic physiological needs to self-actualization. He emphasized that individuals are motivated by the desire to fulfill these needs, starting from the most fundamental and progressing to higher-level psychological needs. Maslow highlighted self-actualization as the ultimate goal, where a person realizes their fullest potential. His humanistic approach presented a positive view of human nature, focusing on personal growth and the intrinsic goodness of people.
Ivan Pavlov’s contribution to psychology
Ivan Pavlov, a Russian physiologist, is renowned for his discovery of classical conditioning, a key concept in behavioral psychology. He demonstrated that dogs could be conditioned to associate a neutral stimulus, such as a bell, with an unconditioned stimulus, like food, which naturally triggers a response, such as salivation. Through repeated pairings, the neutral stimulus alone eventually elicited the response, showing how learning occurs through associations.
What is the focus of Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development
Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development focuses on how children acquire and construct knowledge as they grow. He proposed four stages:
- Sensorimotor (0-2 years): Learning through senses and actions.
- Preoperational (2-7 years): Symbolic thinking and language use, but intuitive and egocentric thought.
- Concrete Operational (7-11 years): Logical thinking about concrete objects, understanding concepts like conservation.
- Formal Operational (11 years and up): Abstract and hypothetical thinking.
Piaget emphasized that children actively construct their understanding of the world through these stages.
Explain humanistic theory
Humanistic theory in psychology emphasizes personal growth, self-actualization, and the inherent goodness of individuals.This perspective sees people as holistic beings with unique experiences and aspirations, highlighting free will in shaping behavior and achieving personal goals. Humanistic ideas have influenced counseling, therapy, education, and positive psychology by promoting the belief that humans are capable of creativity, growth, and meaningful life changes.
Explain the psychodynamic theory
Psychodynamic theory, originating from the work of Sigmund Freud, focuses on the influence of the unconscious mind on behavior. It posits that early childhood experiences shape personality and behavior, and that inner conflicts between different parts of the mind (id, ego, and superego) drive psychological processes. Defense mechanisms, such as repression and denial, are employed by the ego to manage anxiety arising from these conflicts. The theory emphasizes the importance of unconscious motivations and early relationships in understanding psychological disorders and behaviors.
Explain social learning theory
Social learning theory, proposed by Albert Bandura, emphasizes the importance of observation and imitation in learning. According to this theory, individuals learn new behaviors by observing the actions of others and the consequences of those actions.
What was Wilhelm Wundt’s contribution to psychology?
Wilhelm Wundt established the first psychology laboratory in 1879 at the University of Leipzig, marking the start of experimental psychology. He founded structuralism, a school of thought focused on breaking down mental processes into their basic elements through introspection. Wundt emphasized using scientific methods for studying the mind, and his work laid the foundation for psychology as a rigorous scientific discipline.
An example of social learning theory
Bobo Doll Experiment: Bandura’s famous experiment showed children watching an adult model behave aggressively toward a Bobo doll. The children then imitated the aggressive behavior, demonstrating that they had learned it through observation.
What is emotional intelligence?
Emotional intelligence (EI), also known as emotional quotient (EQ), refers to the ability to recognize, understand, manage, and use emotions effectively in oneself and others. It involves several key components or types such as Self awareness, Self management, Social awareness, and relationship management.
