Psychological Approaches

Question 1

Define psychology

Answer 1

The scientific study of experience and behavior

Question 2

What is the cognitive approach?

Answer 2

• Internal processes to understand behavior
• Compares human mind to a computer to understand thinking
• Brain is a processor (input-process-output)
• Use laboratory based studies

Question 3

How does the cognitive approach explain human behavior?

Answer 3

We make sense of the world through imposing order and meaning in the things around.
E.g., phobias reflect faulty processing of info about threats.

Question 4

Strengths/limitations of cognitive approach

Answer 4

Strengths:
-Employs highly controlled and rigorous study methods
-Can be combined with other approaches
Limitations:
-Not directly observable
-Narrow focus on human mind (doesn’t focus on emotional/creative/social aspects)

Question 5

What is the behavioral approach?

Answer 5

Emphasizes the role of environmental factors on influencing behavior.
Key form is conditioning, either classical (Pavlov) or operant (Skinner).

Question 6

Strengths/limitations of behaviorist approach

Answer 6

Strengths:
-Contributions to modification therapy
-Helps understand learning, conditioning and use of reward/punishment
Limitations:
-Criticized for studying animals rather than humans (as we work differently)
-Ethical concerns

Question 7

What is the biological approach?

Answer 7

• Uses biology to explain mental processes and behavior

- Considers how physical structure (namely the brain + CNS) affect human behavior

Question 8

Strengths/limitations of biological approach

Answer 8

Strengths:
-Contributions to nature vs nurture debate
-Very scientific as experiments used are measurable, objective and reliable
Limitations:
-Simplifies complex physical systems and the environmental influences
-Tendency towards a reductionist approach

Question 9

What is the humanist approach?

Answer 9

• Emphasizes looking at the whole individual
• Stresses concepts e.g., free will, self-efficacy and self-actualization
• Believes everyone is unique
• Strives to help people fulfill their potential and maximize well-being

Question 10

Strengths/limitations of humanistic approach

Answer 10

Strengths: 
-Useful for therapy 
-Recognizes personal experience 
Limitations: 
-Lack objectivity and seen as unscientific 
-Assume ALL people are good