Key Concepts in Psychology

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Questions and Answers

What is empiricism?

An early school of thought in psychology

The view that knowledge originates in experience (correct)

The study of human behavior

The principle of natural selection

Which of these options describe structuralism?

Promoted by Wundt and Titchner (correct)

Focuses on observable behavior

Used introspection to reveal the structure of the human mind (correct)

Examines mental processes using the scientific method

What does functionalism explore?

How mental and behavioral processes function

Define experimental psychology.

The study of behavior and thinking using the experimental method. Signup and view all the answers

Behaviorism states that psychology should study mental processes.

False Signup and view all the answers

What defines humanistic psychology?

Focuses on the strengths and virtues of individuals Signup and view all the answers

What does cognitive neuroscience study?

The brain activity linked with cognition. Signup and view all the answers

What is the nature-nurture issue?

The debate between biological and environmental influences on behavior Signup and view all the answers

What is natural selection?

The principle by which traits that enhance survival and reproduction are passed on to future generations. Signup and view all the answers

The biopsychosocial approach combines biological, psychological, and social factors.

True Signup and view all the answers

Define clinical psychology.

The branch of psychology that studies, assesses, and treats people with psychological disorders. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between basic research and applied research?

Basic research aims to increase scientific knowledge, while applied research seeks to solve practical problems. Signup and view all the answers

A ___________ is a factor that may produce an effect in an experiment other than the independent variable.

confounding variable Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of validity in research?

The extent to which a test measures what it is supposed to measure Signup and view all the answers

The histogram is a depiction of a correlation.

False Signup and view all the answers

What does the independent variable signify in research?

The experimental factor that is manipulated. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of debriefing in research?

To explain the study's purpose and any deception to participants. Signup and view all the answers

Define the testing effect.

Enhanced memory after retrieving, rather than simply rereading information. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Concepts in Psychology

Empiricism: Knowledge originates from experience; emphasizes observation and experimentation in science.
Structuralism: Early psychological approach focused on the structure of the mind using introspection, advocated by Wundt and Titchner.
Functionalism: Developed by James under Darwin’s influence; examines mental and behavioral processes and their role in adaptation and survival.
Experimental Psychology: Involves studying behavior and thinking through experimental methods.
Behaviorism: Advocates for an objective view of psychology that focuses solely on observable behavior, leaving out mental processes.
Humanistic Psychology: Focuses on personal growth and the potential of healthy individuals.
Cognitive Neuroscience: Explores the connection between brain activity and cognitive functions such as perception, memory, and language.
Psychology: The scientific study of behaviors and mental processes.

Theories and Approaches

Nature-Nurture Issue: Ongoing debate regarding the influence of genetics versus environment in shaping psychological traits and behaviors.
Natural Selection: Principle stating that traits enhancing survival and reproduction are likely to be passed on through generations.
Levels of Analysis: Different perspectives—biological, psychological, social-cultural—used to analyze phenomena.
Biopsychosocial Approach: Integrates biological, psychological, and social-cultural analysis.

Branches of Psychology

Developmental Psychology: Studies changes in physical, cognitive, and social aspects throughout the lifespan.
Educational Psychology: Focuses on how psychological processes can enhance teaching and learning.
Cognitive Psychology: Investigates mental activities related to thinking, knowing, and remembering.
Social Psychology: Examines how individuals think about, influence, and relate to one another.
Clinical Psychology: Involves assessing and treating psychological disorders.
Counseling Psychology: Aims to help individuals tackle everyday challenges and improve well-being.
Industrial-Organizational Psychology: Applies psychological concepts to workplace improvement.

Research Methods and Statistics

Case Study: In-depth examination of a single individual or group to uncover universal principles.
Naturalistic Observation: Recording behavior in natural settings without manipulation.
Survey: Technique for gathering data on attitudes or behaviors from a representative sample.
Correlation: Assesses the degree to which two variables change together; correlational data can predict relationships.
Experiment: Manipulates factors (independent variables) to observe effects on behaviors (dependent variables).
Random Assignment: Participants are randomly allocated to groups to minimize preexisting differences.
Double-Blind Procedure: Both participants and researchers remain unaware of participant group assignments, reducing bias.

Statistical Concepts

Descriptive Statistics: Measures and describes data characteristics; includes mean, median, and mode.
Inferential Statistics: Allows for generalizations from sample data to broader populations.
Statistical Significance: Indicates the likelihood that results are not due to chance.
Standard Deviation: Measures score variability around the mean.
Skewed Distribution: Distribution of scores that is asymmetrical around the average.

Ethical Considerations

Informed Consent: Participants must be fully informed about the study's nature and risks before agreeing to participate.
Debriefing: Explains the study's purposes and deceptions after participation, ensuring participants understand the research.

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Description

Explore the foundational theories and approaches in psychology including empiricism, structuralism, and functionalism. This quiz covers essential topics that define the discipline and its evolution. Test your understanding of the diverse perspectives that shape psychological science.