Unit 1 and 2 Flashcards
What is the etymology and general definition of “psychology”?
- Etymology: From Greek “psyche” (soul, mind) and “logos” (study).
- Traditional Meaning: “Study of the soul” or “study of the mind.”
- Current Description: Scientific study of behavior and mental processes, exploring human thought, emotion, and action.
What are structuralism and functionalism in early psychology?
- Structuralism (Edward Titchener): Analyzed the basic elements of consciousness via introspection.
- Functionalism (William James): Studied the purpose and function of consciousness and behavior, focusing on how mental processes help adaptation.
Define “introspection” as used in structuralism.
A method involving systematic self-observation of one’s own conscious experiences to understand mental processes
What characterizes empirical research?
Research based on systematic observation and experimentation, using measurable, observable evidence to form conclusions rather than relying solely on theory or logic.
What is behaviorism?
A school of thought stating that psychology should focus on observable, measurable behavior. Founded by John B. Watson and expanded by B.F. Skinner.
How did early behaviorists define “behavior,” and what is a broader definition?
- Early Behaviorist View: Strictly observable, measurable actions, excluding thoughts and feelings.
- General Definition: Any observable or measurable action, which can include internal processes such as thoughts and emotions.
What does “consciousness” refer to in psychology?
The state of being aware of, and able to reflect on, one’s own existence, sensations, thoughts, and surroundings.
Summarize the nature vs. nurture debate.
The debate about whether behavior and traits are primarily determined by genetics (nature) or by environment/experience (nurture).
Who developed psychoanalytic theory, and what is its main focus?
- Developer: Sigmund Freud.
- Focus: Unconscious motives and conflicts, often rooted in childhood, that shape behavior.
What is humanistic psychology, and who are key figures?
- Definition: Emphasizes human potential, self-actualization, and free will.
- Key Figures: Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow.
What does developmental psychology study?
The psychological growth of individuals across the lifespan, including cognitive, emotional, and social development.
What is social psychology concerned with?
How individual behavior, thoughts, and feelings are influenced by social interactions, group dynamics, and cultural norms.
What does experimental psychology examine?
Basic psychological processes (e.g., perception, memory, learning) through controlled experiments to uncover cause-and-effect relationships.
Define behavioral neuroscience (biological psychology).
Studies how the brain, nervous system, and other biological processes influence behavior and mental processes.
What is the focus of cognitive psychology?
The study of mental processes such as perception, memory, language, problem-solving, and decision-making.
What does personality psychology investigate?
Individual differences in patterns of behavior, emotion, and thought, often examining traits and temperament.
What is psychometrics?
The science of measuring mental capacities and processes, often through tests and assessments of intelligence, personality, and aptitude.
What does educational psychology focus on?
How students learn, effective instructional strategies, and the psychological factors affecting education.
What is the goal of health psychology?
To explore how psychological, behavioral, and cultural factors affect physical health and well-being.
What is evolutionary psychology concerned with?
How psychological traits and behaviors may have developed over time via natural selection to aid survival and reproduction.
What does positive psychology study?
Focuses on promoting well-being, happiness, resilience, creativity, and other positive qualities to help individuals and communities thrive.
What does clinical psychology encompass?
Diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders, often integrating assessment and psychotherapy.
How does counseling psychology differ from clinical psychology?
Emphasizes helping individuals with personal, social, and vocational issues, focusing on healthy adjustment rather than severe pathology.
What is the focus of school psychology?
Applying psychological principles in educational settings to address students’ learning and behavioral challenges and promote academic success.
What does I/O psychology study?
Human behavior in the workplace, aiming to improve productivity, select employees effectively, and enhance job satisfaction.
How do psychiatry and psychiatrists differ from psychology and psychologists?
Psychiatry is a branch of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating mental disorders, often using medication. Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs).
Define “cognition.”
The mental processes involved in acquiring knowledge and understanding, including thinking, knowing, remembering, judging, and problem-solving.
What is Donald Hebb’s concept of a “cell assembly”?
Groups of neurons form networks through repeated simultaneous activity, contributing to processes like memory and learning.
Summarize the principle of natural selection.
Charles Darwin’s theory that organisms with traits better suited to their environment tend to survive and reproduce, passing on advantageous traits.
What is a “theory” in scientific terms?
A set of principles or statements that explains observed phenomena and predicts future occurrences, supported by empirical evidence.
How is “culture” defined in psychology?
Shared beliefs, values, norms, and practices of a group that shape behavior and worldview.
What is meant by the subjectivity of experience?
The idea that personal interpretations and perceptions are influenced by an individual’s emotions, memories, and personal context.
What are the primary goals of the scientific enterprise in psychology?
- Measurement and Description: Accurately capture and quantify behavior or phenomena.
- Understanding and Prediction: Explain why behaviors occur and formulate hypotheses.
- Application and Control: Apply findings to solve real-world problems (e.g., education, therapy).
Define “hypothesis,” “variable,” and “theory” in psychological research.
- Hypothesis: A proposed relationship between variables, subject to testing.
- Variable: Any measurable condition or characteristic that can vary.
- Theory: A set of interrelated ideas that explains observations and guides further research.
Why must a scientific theory be testable?
It allows for observation and experimentation, enabling theories to be supported, modified, or refuted as part of scientific progress.
What are the five key steps in a scientific investigation?
- Formulate a Hypothesis.
- Design the Study.
- Collect Data.
- Analyze Data.
- Report Findings.
What is an operational definition, and why is it important?
A precise specification of how a variable is measured. It ensures consistency, clarity, and allows other researchers to replicate the study.
Who are research participants, and what ethical considerations apply?
Individuals who take part in a study, providing data for testing hypotheses. Ethics include informed consent, confidentiality, and the right to withdraw at any time.
List common data collection methods in psychological research.
- Surveys/Questionnaires
- Interviews
- Observational Techniques
- Experimental Methods
- Physiological Measurements
What is the role of peer review in scientific publication?
Peer review involves experts evaluating research for credibility, methodology, and rigor before it’s published in scientific journals.
