The Emergence Of Psychology As A Science

Question 1

17th to 19th century - Start of Psychology

Answer 1

Psychology is a branch of philosophy

At this time psych was “experimental philosophy”

Question 2

1879 - Wilhelm Wundt

Answer 2

Opens 1st experimental psychology lab in Germany

Emerges as a distinct discipline in its own right

Question 3

1900s - Sigmund Freud & psychodynamic approach

Answer 3

• emphasises influence of unconscious mind on behaviour

- developed person centred therapy of psychoanalysis - showed physical impact on mental conflicts

Question 4

1913 - John B. Watson & Behaviourism

Answer 4

Writes “Psychology as the Behaviourist views it” with Skinner

• this along with psychodynamic approach dominate psychology for first half of 20th century

Question 5

1950s - Rogers and Maslow & Humanist approach

Answer 5

• called the 3rd force rejecting behaviourist and psychodynamic view
• human behaviour is determined by outside forces
• emphasises importance of self determination and free will

Question 6

1950s - Cognitive Approach

Answer 6

• from intro of digital computer providing metaphors for operations of the human mind
• study of mental processes in a much more scientific way