Science of Psychology

Question 1

Define applied research

Answer 1

Applied research is designed to solve specific practical problems

Question 2

Define basic research

Answer 2

Basic research reflects the quest for knowledge for its own sake

Question 3

Define behaviour genetics

Answer 3

The study of how behavioural tendencies are influenced by genetic factors

Question 4

Define behavioural neuroscience

Answer 4

Examination of brain processes and other physiological functions that underlie our behaviour, sensory experiences, emotions, and thoughts

Question 5

Define behavioural perspective

Answer 5

The behavioural perspective focuses on the role of the external environment in governing our actions

Question 6

Define behaviourism

Answer 6

Behaviourism is a school of thought that emphasises environmental control of behaviour through learning

Question 7

Define biological perspective

Answer 7

The biological perspective examines how brain processes and other bodily functions regulate behaviour

Question 8

Define bio psychology

Answer 8

Examination of biological underpinnings of behaviour

Question 9

Define British empiricism

Answer 9

British empiricism is that all ideas and knowledge gained empirically, through the senses

Question 10

Define clinical psychology

Answer 10

Clinical psychology is the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders

Question 11

Define cognitive behaviourism

Answer 11

Cognitive behaviourism proposes that learning experiences and the environment influence our expectations and other thoughts and, in turn, that our thoughts influence how we behave

Question 12

Define cognitive neuroscience

Answer 12

Cognitive neuroscience uses sophisticated electrical recording and brain imaging techniques to examine brain activity while people engage in cognitive tasks

Question 13

Define cognitive perspective

Answer 13

The cognitive perspective examines the nature of the mind, and how mental processes influence behaviour

Question 14

Define cognitive psychology

Answer 14

The study of mental processes from a model that views the mind as an information processor

Question 15

Define cultural psychology

Answer 15

Cultural psychology explores how culture is transmitted to its members and examines, psychological, similarities and differences among people from diverse cultures

Question 16

Define developmental psychology

Answer 16

Developmental psychology, examines human physical, psychological, and social development across the lifespan and the effects of ageing on cognitive and behavioural processes

Question 17

Define evolutionary psychology

Answer 17

Evolutionary psychology, seeks to explain how evolution shaped modern human behaviour

Question 18

Define experimental psychology

Answer 18

Experimental psychology focuses on basic processes, such as learning, sensory systems, perception, and motivational states

Question 19

Define functionalism

Answer 19

Functionalism was an early theory, which held that psychology should study the functions of consciousness, rather than its elements

Question 20

Define the humanistic perspective

Answer 20

The humanistic perspective or humanism emphasised free will personal growth, and the attempt to find meaning in one’s existence

Question 21

Define interaction

Answer 21

Interaction means that the way in which one factor influences behaviour depends on the presence of another factor

Question 22

Define natural selection

Answer 22

Natural selection emphasises that if an inherited trait gives certain members an advantage over others, these members will be more likely to survive and pass these characteristics onto their offspring

Question 23

Define neurotransmitters

Answer 23

Neurotransmitters are chemicals released by nerve cells that allow them to communicate with one another

Question 24

Define norms

Answer 24

Norms are rules that specify what behaviour is acceptable and expected for members of that group. Norms are often unwritten.

Question 25

Define personality psychology

Answer 25

Personality psychology focuses on the study of human personality

Question 26

Define psychoanalysis

Answer 26

Psycho analysis is the analysis of internal and primarily unconscious, psychological forces

Question 27

Describe the psychodynamic perspective

Answer 27

Searches for causes of behaviour within our personality (our unique pattern of traits, emotions, and motives), emphasising the role of unconscious processes.

Question 28

Define psychology

Answer 28

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and the mind

Question 29

Define social psychology

Answer 29

Examination of peoples thoughts, feelings, and behaviour pertaining to the social world

Question 30

Describe the sociocultural perspective

Answer 30

How the social environment and cultural learning influence or behaviour, thoughts, and feelings

Question 31

Describe positive psychology movement

Answer 31

Emphasises the study of human strengths, fulfilment, and optimal living.

Question 32

Define structuralism

Answer 32

Structuralism is the analysis of the mind in terms of its basic elements

Question 33

What are the five principles of the scientific method?

Answer 33

1. Empiricism
2. Experimentation.
3. Mathematisation
4. mechanical philosophy
5. Institutionalisation.

Question 34

Define the scientific method

Answer 34

1. Identify a question of interest.
2. Gather information. Form hypothesis.
3. Test hypothesis through research
4. Analyse, conclude, and report.
5. Build body of knowledge.