WEEK 1 - Introduction Flashcards
Definition of psychology
The scientific investigation of mental processes and behaviour
Structuralism
Analyse consciousness into its basic elements. Feelings, sensations and images make up experiences.
Functionalism
Function of consciousness. Beyond sensation and perception
Schools of thought
Psychodynamic, Behaviourist, Humanistic, Cognitive, Evolutionary
Psychodynamic perspective
Actions are determined by the interplay of thoughts, feelings and wishes in the mind. Mental events happen outside of conscious awareness.
Behaviourist perspective
Stimuli come to control behaviour through learning. Human behaviour is understood entirely without reference to thoughts and feelings.
Humanistic perspective
Focuses on the individual. Humans have an innate drive to improve themselves.
Cognitive perspective
Behaviour is the product of information processing. Focuses on the way people perceive, process, and retrieve information.
Evolutionary perspective
Psychological processes are shaped by natural selection.