Introduction to Psychology

Questions and Answers

Which type of behavior involves actions that are visible to others?

Overt behavior (correct)

Unconscious behavior

Covert behavior

Involuntary behavior

What best describes the study of mental processes in psychology?

It focuses solely on observable actions.

It is primarily concerned with unconscious responses.

It disregards individual experiences as they are subjective.

It examines the experiences and behaviors in various contexts. (correct)

Which scenario exemplifies an involuntary behavior?

A student raising their hand to answer a question

A person blinking when a fast object approaches their eye (correct)

A person deciding to start a diet

A person budgeting their expenses each month

Which of the following is considered a rational behavior?

Making a financial plan based on current income Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes subjective experiences in psychology?

They are unique to the individual and cannot be directly observed. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'empiricism' refer to in psychology?

Using systematic observation and experimentation to gather evidence. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the primary goal of psychologists when conducting research?

To predict future behaviors based on observed patterns. Signup and view all the answers

What is a fundamental characteristic of psychology as a science?

Consistent and systematic methods for collecting data. Signup and view all the answers

According to the definitions provided, how is psychology fundamentally defined?

As the scientific study of the behavior of humans and animals. Signup and view all the answers

What does objectivity in psychology seek to achieve?

The elimination of personal biases in observations and measurements. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition of Psychology

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes.
Behavior encompasses all observable actions and reactions including speech, facial expressions, and movements.

Classification of Behavior

Overt Behavior: Actions easily observed, e.g., a student raising their hand.
Covert Behavior: Internal mental activities, e.g., solving a problem mentally.
Conscious Behavior: Deliberate actions, e.g., choosing healthy foods.
Unconscious Behavior: Automatic actions, e.g., foot tapping to music.
Rational Behavior: Logical actions based on reasoning, e.g., budgeting.
Irrational Behavior: Actions based on superstition, e.g., avoiding black cats.
Voluntary Behavior: Intentional actions, e.g., asking questions.
Involuntary Behavior: Reflexive actions, e.g., blinking when something approaches.

Mental Processes

Refers to internal, covert activities of the mind such as thinking, feeling, and remembering.
Experiences are subjective and cannot be directly observed by others.

Scientific Nature of Psychology

Defined as a discipline studying mental processes, experiences, and behavior within various contexts.
Psychological experiences are internal and associated with consciousness and awareness.
Behaviors can vary in complexity and duration, influenced by both internal mental processes and external stimuli.

Observational Methods

Psychology employs the scientific method for systematic observation to avoid biases in understanding behaviors and mental processes.
Derived from Greek words "psyche" (soul) and "logos" (study), literally meaning "the study of the soul."

Characteristics of Psychology as a Science

Objectivity: Strives for unbiased observation and measurement.
Precision: Emphasizes careful measurement and accurate data collection.
Empiricism: Relies on empirical evidence from systematic observation and experimentation.
Systematic Observation: Utilizes structured methods to ensure consistent and repeatable results.
Description: Focuses on detailed documentation of behaviors and mental processes.
Prediction: Aims to identify patterns to foresee future behaviors and reactions.

Notable Definitions

H.D. Hamm: "Psychology is the scientific study of the behavior of humans and animals."
Tom Bolling: "Psychology is a science of description and application."

Description

Explore the foundational concepts of psychology, including its definition and the classification of behavior. Learn how psychology encompasses both observable actions and internal mental processes. Delve into the difference between overt and covert behaviors through engaging examples.