Introduction to Psychology

Definition of Psychology

• Psychology is the scientific investigation of mental processes, behavior, and their interaction.
• It considers the individual's biology, psychological experience, and cultural context.

Wilhelm Wundt

• Established the first psychological laboratory in 1876.
• Focused on identifying the elements of consciousness through trained introspection.

Structuralism vs. Functionalism

Structuralism

• Led by Edward Tichener (lived 1876-1972).
• Aimed to analyze consciousness into its basic elements and investigate their relationships.

Functionalism

• Led by William James (lived 1842-1910).
• Focused on investigating the function or purpose of consciousness, rather than its structure.
• Used objective methods, comparative psychology, and applied findings to practical situations.

Consciousness vs. Behaviour

Behaviourism

• Led by John B. Watson (lived 1878-1958).
• Believed that scientific psychology should only study observable behavior.
• Defined behavior as any overt response or activity.

Gestalt Psychology

• Led by Max Wertheimer (lived 1880-1943).
• Psychological phenomena are best viewed as organized, structured wholes, rather than analyzed into component elements.
• Context influences interpretation.

Psychoanalysis

• Led by Sigmund Freud (lived 1856-1939).
• Focused on the "unconscious" containing thoughts, memories, and desires that influence behavior.

Radical Behaviourism

• Led by B.F. Skinner (lived 1904-1990).
• Championed a return to Watson's strict focus on observable behavior.
• Organisms tend to repeat responses leading to positive outcomes and avoid those leading to negative outcomes.

Humanism

• Led by Abraham Maslow (lived 1908-1970) and Carl Rogers (lived 1902-1987).
• Takes an optimistic view of human nature, emphasizing unique qualities, freedom, and potential for personal growth.

Later Developments

• The 1950s saw a renewed interest in cognition, physiology, and the biological bases of behavior.
• Psychology as a profession experienced significant growth during this era.
• Increased interest in the impact of evolution, culture, and the social, cultural, historical, and evolutionary context.
• Recognized the complex and dynamic nature of human experience.

Biopsychosocial Model

• Considers the interaction between biological, psychological, and social factors influencing human behavior and mental processes.