Introduction to Psychology Definitions

Psychology Definition

• The term "psychology" originates from Greek words: "psyche" meaning "soul" and "logos" meaning "study of."
• Psychology is the study of the soul.
• The word "soul" was later replaced by "mind" by William James.
• The meaning of psychology evolved.
• The concept of "mind" was later deemed too vague.
• Psychology was redefined as the "systematic study of human and animal behavior." This definition was established in 1913 by John B. Watson.

Behavior Definition

• "Behavior" refers to any observable manifestation or action in life.
• Behavior encompasses various activities like motor activities (walking, swimming, etc.), cognitive activities (thinking, reasoning), and affective activities (feelings).
• Behavior encompasses all observable activities and experiences of living organisms.

Goals of Psychology

• Description: Observing and describing behavior objectively (what is happening?).
• Explanation: Trying to understand the "why" behind behavior (the reason for the behavior).
• Prediction: Forecasting when, how, and why behavior might occur (predicting future behavior).
• Control: Modifying behavior (how to change behavior).

Branches of Psychology

Educational Psychology

• Focuses on school, teaching, and student concerns.
• Investigates classroom dynamics, teaching styles, and learning.
• Develops and evaluates educational programs and tests.
• Studying aspects of the educational process, from curriculum design to teaching techniques.
• Studying how people learn, including individual differences, gifted learners, and learning disabilities.

Social Psychology

• Explores group behavior and interpersonal relationships.
• Examines how individuals influence each other and are influenced by groups and others.
• Studies concepts like public opinion, attitudes, beliefs, and behavior.
• Emphasizes all aspects of social behavior, such as how people think about and interact with each other.
• Social psychologists study perception of others and how those perceptions shape attitudes, behaviors, and relationships.

Developmental Psychology

• Explains the growth and development of individuals from conception to old age.
• Studies biological, cognitive, and emotional development throughout the lifespan.
• Evaluates and diagnoses developmental delays and behavioral problems in infants, children, adolescents, and adults.
• Developmental psychologists understand complex behaviors by studying their roots and how they evolve over time.

Child Psychology

• Focuses on child development from two to 12 years of age.
• Examines motor, emotional, social, and language development in children.
• Suggests positive parenting approaches based on children's behavior.
• Studies children's behavior, a significant part of developmental psychology.

Occupational Psychology

• Studies how human behavior affects industries and organizations.
• I/O psychologists evaluate work situations, develop performance plans, and improve work-life balance.
• Investigates workplace behavior, like employee selection, recruitment, motivation, and leadership.
• Some companies use modern psychological tests in hiring and employee selection.
• This branch also tackles management, employee training, leadership, communication, and resolving conflicts in organizations.

Clinical Psychology

• Diagnoses and treats emotional disturbances and mental illnesses.
• Clinical psychologists directly provide healthcare to patients.
• The process involves interactions through observation, interviews, and psychological testing to diagnose and establish a treatment plan.
• Clinical psychologists employ psychological theory and therapy.
• They use standardized tests and psychotherapy (which they are trained in) to treat mental disorders.
• They conduct research on diagnosing, treating, and preventing psychological disorders.

Health Psychology

• Investigates the interplay of biological, psychological, behavioral, and social factors on health and illness.
• Explores how various factors influence health, encompassing heredity, medical conditions, and overall well-being.
• Health psychologists aim to help people cultivate healthier behaviors and better manage health.
• This field involves education about health and wellness, strategies for managing weight, preventing unhealthy behaviors, building positive attitudes toward health, and developing coping mechanisms.

Explore the fundamental definitions of psychology and behavior. Discover the evolution of psychology's focus from the 'soul' to systematic studies of behavior. Understand the goals of psychology in observing and explaining behavior.