Introduction to General Psychology

Introduction to General Psychology

• General psychology is a broad field examining human behavior and mental processes.
• It provides a base for specialized psychology areas.

Key Domains in Psychology

• Biological psychology investigates the link between biology and behavior (genetics, nervous system, endocrine system).
  • Understanding how the brain and nervous system affect thoughts, feelings, and actions is crucial.
  • Topics include neurotransmitters, brain structures, and genetic influences.
• Cognitive psychology studies mental processes (perception, attention, memory, language, problem-solving).
  • Experimental methods are often used.
  • Research explores information acquisition, processing, and use.
• Developmental psychology examines lifespan changes (infancy to old age).
  • Physical, cognitive, and social development are studied.
  • Research tracks development across stages.
• Social psychology explores how social factors influence thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
  • Topics include social cognition, conformity, obedience, and group dynamics.
  • Research investigates social situations' impact.
• Abnormal psychology investigates psychological disorders (causes, treatments, prevention).
  • Diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of disorders (anxiety, mood, schizophrenia).
  • Research focuses on developing effective interventions.

Core Concepts

• The scientific method is essential for testing psychology hypotheses and drawing valid conclusions.
  • Observation, hypothesis formation, data collection, and analysis are involved.
• Research methods in psychology vary depending on the research topic/question. (experiments, surveys, case studies)
  • Each method has advantages and disadvantages.
• Ethical considerations are critical in psychological research.
  • Informed consent, confidentiality, right to withdraw are essential participant protections.

Perspectives in Psychology

• Psychodynamic perspective focuses on unconscious processes and early experiences shaping behavior.
  • Unconscious motivations and conflicts are important in understanding thoughts and actions.
• Behavioral perspective emphasizes learning and environmental influences on behavior.
  • Observable behaviors and environmental factors (classical and operant conditioning) are crucial.
• Humanistic perspective highlights individual potential for growth and self-actualization.
  • Free will and personal growth are important motivators.
• Cognitive perspective focuses on internal mental processes. (memory, thinking, problem-solving).
  • How people receive, process, and retain information are key.
• Biological perspective emphasizes biological factors in shaping behavior.
  • Research often explores the biological basis for mental illnesses.

History of Psychology

• Wilhelm Wundt established the first psychology lab, shifting psychology towards scientific study of consciousness.
• Different historical schools of thought (e.g., structuralism, functionalism) shaped the field's development.

Applications of Psychology

• Clinical psychology assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental health issues.
• Counseling psychology supports individuals addressing personal problems.
• Educational psychology studies learning and educational system improvement (learning styles, motivation).

Overall, General Psychology:

• Provides a basic understanding of behavior and mental processes.
• Forms a base for more specialized psychology areas.
• Continuously evolves through research and advancements.