Introduction to Psychology - Module 1

Introduction to Psychology: Module 1

• Learning outcomes focus on the mission, vision, and core values of the institution, historical interactions between science & technology and society, the impact of scientific developments on society and the environment, and presenting contributions of science and technology.

Definition and Goals of Psychology

• Psychology is defined as the scientific study of behavior and mental processes, including areas like the nervous system, sensation, perception, learning, memory, and social behavior.
• Goals of psychology include describing, explaining, predicting, and controlling behavior and mental processes.

Psychodynamic Perspective

• Originated from Freud's theories, focusing on unconscious processes in the mid-20th century.
• Contemporary perspectives emphasize conscious choice and self-direction, supported by neoanalysts like Karen Horney and Erik Erikson.

Learning Perspectives

• Behaviorists, such as John B. Watson, study environmental influences and behavior through habit formation and reinforcement.
• Social-cognitive theorists emphasize intentional learning through observation and environmental modification.

Sociocultural Perspective

• Examines the impact of ethnicity, gender, culture, and socioeconomic status on behavior and mental processes.
• Key research includes:
  • Kenneth and Mamie Clark's work on school segregation's effects on African American children.
  • Jorge Sanchez's findings on cultural bias in intelligence tests against Mexican American children.
  • Contributions from women like Mary Whiton Calkins and Mary Ainsworth regarding memory studies and attachment theory.

Research Methodology in Psychology

• Psychologists apply the scientific method to systematically observe and measure behavior.
• A well-represented sample is essential for generalizing findings. For example, using phone surveys during the Great Depression led to biased results.

Sampling Techniques

• Random sampling provides equal selection chances for each population member.
• Stratified sampling ensures subgroups are proportionately represented.

Volunteer Bias

• Occurs when participants differ systematically from non-participants, influencing research results.

Research Methods

• Personal observations are often unreliable; controlled methods are preferred.
• Methods include:
  • Case Study: Detailed information on individuals/groups, useful but may introduce inaccuracies.
  • Survey: Gather data through questionnaires and interviews, risks false reporting or social desirability bias.
  • Naturalistic Observation: Studies behavior in natural settings unobtrusively.

Correlation and Experimental Methods

• Correlation assesses relationships between variables but does not imply causation.
• The experimental method is key for determining cause-effect relationships, identifying independent (manipulated) and dependent (measured) variables.
• Use of control groups, and blinding procedures reduces bias, exemplified by studies on alcohol's effects on aggression.

Ethics in Psychological Research

• Ethical standards protect individual dignity, welfare, and scientific integrity, prohibiting harmful methods.
• Informed consent, confidentiality, and debriefing are crucial when working with human subjects.
• Ethical reviews ensure research proposals meet ethical guidelines before approval.

Critical Thinking in Psychology

• Essential for evaluating evidence and research validity, critical thinking involves:
  • Skepticism towards accepted beliefs and evidence.
  • Requesting substantial evidence for claims.
  • Examining assumptions and definitions.
  • Ensuring careful interpretation of conclusions.
  • Recognizing the complexity in human behavior and considering alternative explanations.

Explore the foundational concepts of psychology in Module 1. This quiz includes reflections on institutional values and discussions on the historical interactions between science, technology, and society. Dive into how scientific advancements shape our environment and societal structures.