Introduction to Psychology

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Questions and Answers

What does the term psychology literally mean?

Study of the brain

Study of behavior

Study of the soul (correct)

Study of the mind

What is one of the primary goals of psychology?

To diagnose mental disorders

To memorize human history

To understand why people behave the way they do (correct)

To conduct experiments on animals

Which approach considers biological, psychological, and social factors in psychology?

Biopsychosocial approach (correct)

Psychoanalytic theory

Classical conditioning

Cognitive-behavioral approach

Who were the physicians that developed the biopsychosocial approach?

Dr. George Engel and Dr. John Romano Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'control' aspect of psychology aim to achieve?

To prevent unwanted consequences Signup and view all the answers

What was an ancient method used to address psychological problems?

Trephining Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the four goals of psychology?

Control government policies Signup and view all the answers

The symbol for psychology is derived from which Greek letter?

Psi Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher is known for the concept of 'tabula rasa'?

John Locke Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Wilhelm Wundt in the field of psychology?

He founded the first psychological lab. Signup and view all the answers

What was René Descartes' contribution to psychology?

He introduced the concept of reflex action. Signup and view all the answers

Which concept is associated with Ernst Heinrich Weber?

Weber's Law. Signup and view all the answers

What does structuralism primarily aim to uncover?

The fundamental components of mental processes. Signup and view all the answers

Who is credited with early contributions to comparative psychology?

Charles Darwin Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher is noted for their skills in introspection?

St. Augustine Signup and view all the answers

Which school of thought does Wilhelm Wundt represent?

Structuralism Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant rejection made by Aristotle concerning innate ideas?

He thought that learning comes solely from experience. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following contributions is Franz Gall known for?

Localizing special parts of the brain. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition of Psychology

Coined from Greek words “psyche” (soul) and “logos” (study), defining psychology as the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes.
The symbol for psychology, ‘psi’, represents the mind or soul, reflecting the discipline's focus.

Goals of Psychology

Aim to understand human behavior:
- Understand why people behave in certain ways.
- Explain how behavior is influenced by environmental events.
- Predict behaviors by identifying conditions under which they may occur.
- Control or modify behavior to prevent negative outcomes.
Adoption of the biopsychosocial approach considers biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding health and behavior.

Historical Roots of Psychology

Ancient beliefs attributed psychological problems to evil spirits, leading to practices like trephining (skull chipping).
Influential figures in psychology's development:
- Aristotle: Focused on the mind's study, rejecting innate ideas.
- John Locke: Popularized the "tabula rasa" concept, suggesting that individuals are born without innate ideas.
- St. Augustine: Noted for introspection and curiosity about psychological phenomena.
- René Descartes: Introduced the concept of reflex action linking physiology and psychology.

Modern Developments

Wilhelm Wundt: Known as the "Father of Modern Psychology," he established the first psychological laboratory in Leipzig, Germany.
Franz Gall: Pioneered the idea of localizing brain functions.
Ernst Heinrich Weber: Developed Weber’s Law, stating noticeable differences are a constant proportion of the original stimulus.
Charles Darwin: Introduced the theory of evolution, influencing comparative psychology between humans and animals.

Schools of Thought

Structuralism:
- Proponent: Wilhelm Wundt.
- Focus: Identifies fundamental components of consciousness, perception, and emotion, answering "what is the event/behavior?"

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Description

Discover the fundamental concepts of psychology, tracing its origins from the Greek words 'psyche' and 'logos'. This quiz delves into the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes, alongside the symbolism and definitions connected to the discipline.