Introduction to Psychology

Study Notes

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.

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.

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.

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.

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