Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which type of behavior involves actions that are visible to others?
Which type of behavior involves actions that are visible to others?
What best describes the study of mental processes in psychology?
What best describes the study of mental processes in psychology?
Which scenario exemplifies an involuntary behavior?
Which scenario exemplifies an involuntary behavior?
Which of the following is considered a rational behavior?
Which of the following is considered a rational behavior?
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What characterizes subjective experiences in psychology?
What characterizes subjective experiences in psychology?
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What does the term 'empiricism' refer to in psychology?
What does the term 'empiricism' refer to in psychology?
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Which of the following best describes the primary goal of psychologists when conducting research?
Which of the following best describes the primary goal of psychologists when conducting research?
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What is a fundamental characteristic of psychology as a science?
What is a fundamental characteristic of psychology as a science?
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According to the definitions provided, how is psychology fundamentally defined?
According to the definitions provided, how is psychology fundamentally defined?
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What does objectivity in psychology seek to achieve?
What does objectivity in psychology seek to achieve?
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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."
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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.
