Introduction to Psychology

Scientific Study of Behavior

• Behavior is examined through empirical scientific research methods.
• Research encompasses both human and animal behaviors to understand a wider range of actions.
• Thoughts, feelings, and fantasies play a role in behavioral studies, even if they are not directly observable.
• A systematic approach is essential in studying behavior, ensuring reliability and validity of findings.

Understanding Research in Behavior

• Research in behavioral sciences goes beyond merely collecting facts; it aims to explain underlying reasons for behaviors in both humans and animals.
• Hypothesis refers to a proposed explanation or prediction concerning behavior, which must be tested through rigorous scientific research.
• A theory is developed when a set of assumptions successfully explains a phenomenon and is consistently supported by scientific study.

Hypothesis and Theory in Scientific Research

• A hypothesis is an assumption or prediction regarding behavior, which is tested through scientific research.
• Scientific study involves analyzing both animal and human behaviors to derive meaningful conclusions.
• Systematic study of behavior is essential to ensure accuracy and objectivity in findings.

Importance of Thoughts and Feelings

• While thoughts, feelings, and fantasies are significant to understanding behavior, they are not always directly observable.
• This lack of observability poses challenges in studying subjective experiences in both humans and animals.

Explanation of Behavior

• Researchers aim to explicate why individuals or animals exhibit specific behaviors.
• The goal of scientific inquiry is to move beyond mere observation and seek underlying reasons for actions.

The Role of Theory

• A theory is defined as a collection of assumptions proposed to explain phenomena within a scientific context.
• Theories serve as frameworks that guide further research and experimentation.