Psychology glossary word list 1 Flashcards
Psychodynamic approach
Historically important field of psychology which says behaviour is due to unconscious forces and conflicts of which the conscious mind is unaware.
Learning approaches
Behaviourism and social learning theory
Behaviourist approach
All behaviour is learnt. Classical and operant conditioning.
Social Learning theory
Learning can happen indirectly through observation of a role model and watching them be rewarded (vicarious reinforcement) or punishment.
Humanist approach
Behaviour emphasises the importance of subjective experience and each person’s capacity for self-determination , also concept of free will
Cognitive approach
Behaviour is due to cognitions - thoughts, beliefs and ways of mentally processing the world. Disordered behaviour = due to faulty conditions
Biological approach
Behaviour is described by looking at biological causes: genetics, hormones, gender, evolution, neurotransmitters, brain functioning.
Introspection
Studying and reporting thought processes, first used in controlled conditions by Wilhelm Wundt in his Leipzig Lab
Cognitive neuroscience
The scientific study of biological structures and functioning that underpin cognitive processes. Newest approach in psychology.
Eclectic approach
The combining of several approaches, methods and/or theoretical perspectives in order to provide a more comprehensive account of human behaviour
Pilot study
Small study undertaken before embarking on big expensive main study. Allows changes to be made to the study following results from the pilot.
Confederate
Someone taking part in research who is not a real participant
Learning can happen indirectly through observation of a role model and watching them be rewarded (vicarious reinforcement) or punishment.
Social Learning theory
Behaviourism and social learning theory
Learning approaches
Behaviour is due to cognitions - thoughts, beliefs and ways of mentally processing the world. Disordered behaviour = due to faulty conditions
Cognitive approach
