W1 Chapter 1.2 - Theory in Personality Psychology

Question 1

What is the definition of a theory?

Answer 1

a summary statement, a general principle or set of principles about a class of events

Question 2

What are the two purposes of a theory?

Answer 2

1. to explain the phenomenon it addresses
2. to allow you to predict new information

Question 3

What is the definition of insight?

Answer 3

An emotional re-experiencing of earlier conflicts in your life that occurs during therapy.

Question 4

How is a theory supported?

Answer 4

By scientifically testing the predictions the theory makes

Question 5

What are the four elements of the cyclical model of theory testing

Answer 5

1. prediction
2. testing
3. revision
4. retesting

Question 6

What is a quality that a good theory would have

Answer 6

Pasimony, or the idea that the theory should include as few assumptions as possible (be as simple as possible)