Podcast
Questions and Answers
A researcher is developing a hypothesis about student test performance. Which of the following hypotheses is most suitable for scientific investigation?
A researcher is developing a hypothesis about student test performance. Which of the following hypotheses is most suitable for scientific investigation?
- Students perform better on tests when they feel the test is fair.
- Students who study in groups perform better on tests because they are happier.
- Students perform better on tests when they get enough sleep the night before. (correct)
- Students perform better on tests when they believe the instructor cares about them.
Which of the following best exemplifies psychology's position as a bridge between natural and social sciences?
Which of the following best exemplifies psychology's position as a bridge between natural and social sciences?
- Developing therapeutic interventions for anxiety disorders.
- Conducting surveys to understand public opinions on social issues.
- Studying the cognitive processes involved in decision-making.
- Examining the impact of brain lesions on personality changes. (correct)
What is the critical distinction between a scientific theory and a simple hypothesis in psychology?
What is the critical distinction between a scientific theory and a simple hypothesis in psychology?
- A theory is a guess, while a hypothesis is a proven fact.
- A hypothesis is more complex than a theory.
- A theory is narrower in scope than a hypothesis.
- A theory is supported by a substantial body of evidence accumulated over time, whereas a hypothesis is a tentative explanation awaiting empirical testing. (correct)
A psychologist is interested in studying the impact of violent video games on aggression in teenagers. According to the principles of the scientific method, which of the following would be the MOST appropriate next step after formulating a hypothesis?
A psychologist is interested in studying the impact of violent video games on aggression in teenagers. According to the principles of the scientific method, which of the following would be the MOST appropriate next step after formulating a hypothesis?
Which approach would be considered the LEAST empirical when studying the effects of mindfulness on stress reduction?
Which approach would be considered the LEAST empirical when studying the effects of mindfulness on stress reduction?
Which of the following scenarios best represents the application of the scientific method in addressing a psychological question?
Which of the following scenarios best represents the application of the scientific method in addressing a psychological question?
A study finds a correlation between ice cream sales and crime rates. Based on the principles of psychological science, what is the most appropriate conclusion?
A study finds a correlation between ice cream sales and crime rates. Based on the principles of psychological science, what is the most appropriate conclusion?
How does the empirical nature of psychology differentiate it from earlier philosophical approaches to understanding the mind?
How does the empirical nature of psychology differentiate it from earlier philosophical approaches to understanding the mind?
Which of the following best describes the primary focus of functionalism in psychology?
Which of the following best describes the primary focus of functionalism in psychology?
How did William James broaden the methods of studying mental activities, compared to Wilhelm Wundt's approach?
How did William James broaden the methods of studying mental activities, compared to Wilhelm Wundt's approach?
What was Sigmund Freud's primary approach to understanding and resolving his patients' psychological problems?
What was Sigmund Freud's primary approach to understanding and resolving his patients' psychological problems?
Freud theorized that the unconscious mind could be accessed through various methods. Which of the following is NOT a method Freud suggested?
Freud theorized that the unconscious mind could be accessed through various methods. Which of the following is NOT a method Freud suggested?
Which factor most significantly contributed to the establishment of the Association for Psychological Science (APS)?
Which factor most significantly contributed to the establishment of the Association for Psychological Science (APS)?
What is a primary focus of cultural and social issues for organizations such as the National Latina/o Psychological Association (NLPA), the Asian American Psychological Association (AAPA), the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi), and the Society of Indian Psychologists (SIP)?
What is a primary focus of cultural and social issues for organizations such as the National Latina/o Psychological Association (NLPA), the Asian American Psychological Association (AAPA), the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi), and the Society of Indian Psychologists (SIP)?
Which of the following best summarizes Drew Westen's argument regarding criticisms of Freud's psychoanalytic theories?
Which of the following best summarizes Drew Westen's argument regarding criticisms of Freud's psychoanalytic theories?
Which approach would a biopsychologist most likely use to study the effects of long-term stress on cognitive function?
Which approach would a biopsychologist most likely use to study the effects of long-term stress on cognitive function?
What is the central tenet of Gestalt psychology regarding sensory experience?
What is the central tenet of Gestalt psychology regarding sensory experience?
How did the historical context of the early 20th century impact the development and influence of Gestalt psychology in the United States?
How did the historical context of the early 20th century impact the development and influence of Gestalt psychology in the United States?
What is the most critical requirement for a behavior to be considered a subject of study in evolutionary psychology?
What is the most critical requirement for a behavior to be considered a subject of study in evolutionary psychology?
Which challenge is a primary limitation when applying evolutionary theory to understand current human behaviors?
Which challenge is a primary limitation when applying evolutionary theory to understand current human behaviors?
Gestalt principles influenced later development of which theory?
Gestalt principles influenced later development of which theory?
Which of the following approaches focused on understanding inner experience?
Which of the following approaches focused on understanding inner experience?
A researcher is investigating the link between specific genes and susceptibility to anxiety disorders. Which field of psychology does this best represent?
A researcher is investigating the link between specific genes and susceptibility to anxiety disorders. Which field of psychology does this best represent?
What would be the focus of a study examining the adaptive value of altruistic behavior in human societies?
What would be the focus of a study examining the adaptive value of altruistic behavior in human societies?
Which perspective would be most interested in understanding the purpose of fear in preparing an individual to respond to danger?
Which perspective would be most interested in understanding the purpose of fear in preparing an individual to respond to danger?
Which of the following scenarios would most likely be of interest to a Gestalt psychologist?
Which of the following scenarios would most likely be of interest to a Gestalt psychologist?
What is typically the first step taken by evolutionary psychologists when investigating a particular human behavior?
What is typically the first step taken by evolutionary psychologists when investigating a particular human behavior?
In what way did functionalism differ from structuralism?
In what way did functionalism differ from structuralism?
Which area of study would fall under the purview of biological psychology?
Which area of study would fall under the purview of biological psychology?
A therapist encourages a patient to speak freely about their childhood experiences and recurring dreams in order to gain insight into their unconscious conflicts. Which perspective is the therapist likely following?
A therapist encourages a patient to speak freely about their childhood experiences and recurring dreams in order to gain insight into their unconscious conflicts. Which perspective is the therapist likely following?
How does evolutionary psychology build upon the work of Charles Darwin?
How does evolutionary psychology build upon the work of Charles Darwin?
While Freud's ideas were influential, many were also controversial. Which of the following best describes a common criticism of Freud's theories?
While Freud's ideas were influential, many were also controversial. Which of the following best describes a common criticism of Freud's theories?
G. Stanley Hall's career demonstrates
G. Stanley Hall's career demonstrates
Which of the following would be considered a Gestalt principle?
Which of the following would be considered a Gestalt principle?
What is a key distinction between biopsychology and evolutionary psychology?
What is a key distinction between biopsychology and evolutionary psychology?
What is a major concern when assuming that a human behavior has a genetic determinant in evolutionary psychology?
What is a major concern when assuming that a human behavior has a genetic determinant in evolutionary psychology?
Which professional organization was G. Stanley Hall the first president of?
Which professional organization was G. Stanley Hall the first president of?
A researcher aims to identify specific neural circuits involved in decision-making. Which approach aligns with biopsychology?
A researcher aims to identify specific neural circuits involved in decision-making. Which approach aligns with biopsychology?
When distinguishing between facts and opinions related to psychological phenomena, what is the most critical factor?
When distinguishing between facts and opinions related to psychological phenomena, what is the most critical factor?
In the scenario involving Umberto's speech delays, what is the MOST effective approach to determine whether his condition indicates a developmental disorder?
In the scenario involving Umberto's speech delays, what is the MOST effective approach to determine whether his condition indicates a developmental disorder?
What is the primary role of empirical research in addressing questions related to psychology?
What is the primary role of empirical research in addressing questions related to psychology?
What is the MOST important characteristic of scientific facts, as opposed to opinions, in the context of psychological research?
What is the MOST important characteristic of scientific facts, as opposed to opinions, in the context of psychological research?
How should one differentiate between a source of psychological information based on research from one that is not?
How should one differentiate between a source of psychological information based on research from one that is not?
Weisstein's critique of psychology in the 1960s primarily focused on what issue?
Weisstein's critique of psychology in the 1960s primarily focused on what issue?
Why did behaviorists like Watson and Skinner disagree with Wundt and James's focus on conscious experience?
Why did behaviorists like Watson and Skinner disagree with Wundt and James's focus on conscious experience?
What is a core principle underlying feminist approaches to psychology according to Crawford & Marecek (1989)?
What is a core principle underlying feminist approaches to psychology according to Crawford & Marecek (1989)?
Which statement reflects a core belief of humanistic psychology that differentiates it from behaviorism and psychoanalysis?
Which statement reflects a core belief of humanistic psychology that differentiates it from behaviorism and psychoanalysis?
What does the acronym WEIRD stand for, as it is used in the context of cross-cultural psychology?
What does the acronym WEIRD stand for, as it is used in the context of cross-cultural psychology?
According to Henrich, Heine, and Norenzayan's research, what is a significant implication of over-studying WEIRD societies?
According to Henrich, Heine, and Norenzayan's research, what is a significant implication of over-studying WEIRD societies?
How did Skinner's operant conditioning chamber (Skinner box) contribute to the study of behavior?
How did Skinner's operant conditioning chamber (Skinner box) contribute to the study of behavior?
What is the key principle behind Pavlov's concept of classical conditioning?
What is the key principle behind Pavlov's concept of classical conditioning?
How do cross-cultural psychologists typically conduct their research?
How do cross-cultural psychologists typically conduct their research?
How did behaviorism influence the field of psychology as a whole?
How did behaviorism influence the field of psychology as a whole?
What was Francis Cecil Sumner's primary contribution to the field of psychology?
What was Francis Cecil Sumner's primary contribution to the field of psychology?
What does Maslow's hierarchy of needs suggest about human motivation?
What does Maslow's hierarchy of needs suggest about human motivation?
George I. Sanchez's work primarily challenged what aspect of educational psychology regarding Mexican American children?
George I. Sanchez's work primarily challenged what aspect of educational psychology regarding Mexican American children?
What was John B. Watson's main argument for shifting the focus of psychology from the mind to behavior?
What was John B. Watson's main argument for shifting the focus of psychology from the mind to behavior?
What was the major contribution of Mamie Phipps Clark and Kenneth Clark to the field of psychology?
What was the major contribution of Mamie Phipps Clark and Kenneth Clark to the field of psychology?
What did Tolman mean when he stated that 'everything important in psychology (except … such matters as involve society and words) can be investigated in essence through the continued experimental and theoretical analysis of the determiners of rat behavior at a choice-point in a maze'?
What did Tolman mean when he stated that 'everything important in psychology (except … such matters as involve society and words) can be investigated in essence through the continued experimental and theoretical analysis of the determiners of rat behavior at a choice-point in a maze'?
Which factor primarily motivates some psychologists from specific ethnic groups to study their own communities?
Which factor primarily motivates some psychologists from specific ethnic groups to study their own communities?
What was a significant obstacle faced by Mary Whiton Calkins in her pursuit of a doctoral degree in psychology?
What was a significant obstacle faced by Mary Whiton Calkins in her pursuit of a doctoral degree in psychology?
Which of the following is an example of behavior modification used in classroom settings, influenced by behaviorism?
Which of the following is an example of behavior modification used in classroom settings, influenced by behaviorism?
What key contribution did Mary Cover Jones make to the study of learning and behavior?
What key contribution did Mary Cover Jones make to the study of learning and behavior?
How does the concept of 'determinism' relate differently to behaviorism and psychoanalysis?
How does the concept of 'determinism' relate differently to behaviorism and psychoanalysis?
What is a key difference between classical conditioning (Pavlov) and operant conditioning (Skinner)?
What is a key difference between classical conditioning (Pavlov) and operant conditioning (Skinner)?
How did Martha Bernal contribute to the field of psychology?
How did Martha Bernal contribute to the field of psychology?
What criticism did humanistic psychologists have regarding both behaviorism and psychoanalysis?
What criticism did humanistic psychologists have regarding both behaviorism and psychoanalysis?
In what way has the American Psychological Association (APA) influenced contemporary psychology?
In what way has the American Psychological Association (APA) influenced contemporary psychology?
If a researcher is studying the effects of caffeine on test performance by giving some students caffeinated coffee and others decaf, which approach is LEAST aligned with the principles of behaviorism?
If a researcher is studying the effects of caffeine on test performance by giving some students caffeinated coffee and others decaf, which approach is LEAST aligned with the principles of behaviorism?
What was Inez Beverly Prosser's major achievement in the field of psychology?
What was Inez Beverly Prosser's major achievement in the field of psychology?
Margaret Floy Washburn's book, The Animal Mind: A Textbook of Comparative Psychology, is best known for what?
Margaret Floy Washburn's book, The Animal Mind: A Textbook of Comparative Psychology, is best known for what?
A therapist using a cognitive-behavioral approach is working with a client to overcome a fear of public speaking. How might they apply principles from both behaviorism and cognitive psychology?
A therapist using a cognitive-behavioral approach is working with a client to overcome a fear of public speaking. How might they apply principles from both behaviorism and cognitive psychology?
In what way might an educational psychologist apply Skinner's principles of operant conditioning to improve student engagement in an online course?
In what way might an educational psychologist apply Skinner's principles of operant conditioning to improve student engagement in an online course?
What fundamental principle guided humanistic psychologists in their rejection of reductionist experimentation?
What fundamental principle guided humanistic psychologists in their rejection of reductionist experimentation?
Which of the following is a key component that Carl Rogers believed therapists must display to be effective in client-centered therapy?
Which of the following is a key component that Carl Rogers believed therapists must display to be effective in client-centered therapy?
How does client-centered therapy, developed by Carl Rogers, differ from a traditional psychoanalytic approach?
How does client-centered therapy, developed by Carl Rogers, differ from a traditional psychoanalytic approach?
How did new disciplinary perspectives contribute to the cognitive revolution?
How did new disciplinary perspectives contribute to the cognitive revolution?
What was Noam Chomsky's primary criticism of behaviorism that contributed to the cognitive revolution?
What was Noam Chomsky's primary criticism of behaviorism that contributed to the cognitive revolution?
What impact did the cognitive revolution have on the relationship between European and American psychology?
What impact did the cognitive revolution have on the relationship between European and American psychology?
What does the term 'cognitive sciences' refer to in the context of the cognitive revolution?
What does the term 'cognitive sciences' refer to in the context of the cognitive revolution?
Which of the following best characterizes the primary critique presented in Naomi Weisstein's 1968 article that stimulated a feminist revolution in psychology?
Which of the following best characterizes the primary critique presented in Naomi Weisstein's 1968 article that stimulated a feminist revolution in psychology?
Before the rise of feminist psychology, what was the prevailing attitude regarding gender in psychological studies?
Before the rise of feminist psychology, what was the prevailing attitude regarding gender in psychological studies?
What commonality exists between the humanistic and cognitive perspectives that differentiates them from strict behaviorism?
What commonality exists between the humanistic and cognitive perspectives that differentiates them from strict behaviorism?
How did the interdisciplinary nature of the cognitive sciences advance the field of psychology?
How did the interdisciplinary nature of the cognitive sciences advance the field of psychology?
In what way did the rise of feminist psychology challenge existing norms within the field?
In what way did the rise of feminist psychology challenge existing norms within the field?
Which statement accurately reflects a contribution of humanistic psychology to therapeutic practices?
Which statement accurately reflects a contribution of humanistic psychology to therapeutic practices?
What was a significant outcome of psychology's historical lack of diversity prior to the rise of feminist psychology?
What was a significant outcome of psychology's historical lack of diversity prior to the rise of feminist psychology?
How might a modern-day psychologist integrate the principles of both humanistic psychology and the cognitive sciences in their practice?
How might a modern-day psychologist integrate the principles of both humanistic psychology and the cognitive sciences in their practice?
In evolutionary psychology, why might a behavioral trait persist even if it's no longer adaptive in current conditions?
In evolutionary psychology, why might a behavioral trait persist even if it's no longer adaptive in current conditions?
Which of the following is an example of a research finding that aligns with predictions made by evolutionary psychology?
Which of the following is an example of a research finding that aligns with predictions made by evolutionary psychology?
What makes sensation and perception an interdisciplinary area of study?
What makes sensation and perception an interdisciplinary area of study?
How does perception differ from sensation, according to the information presented?
How does perception differ from sensation, according to the information presented?
What initiated more focus on the understanding of the mind and mental processes that underlie behavior within the field of psychology?
What initiated more focus on the understanding of the mind and mental processes that underlie behavior within the field of psychology?
Which of the following best describes the scope of cognitive psychology?
Which of the following best describes the scope of cognitive psychology?
Why is the term 'cognitive science' used to describe the study of cognition?
Why is the term 'cognitive science' used to describe the study of cognition?
What is the primary focus of developmental psychology?
What is the primary focus of developmental psychology?
How did Jean Piaget contribute to the field of developmental psychology?
How did Jean Piaget contribute to the field of developmental psychology?
What does the concept of 'object permanence' refer to in developmental psychology?
What does the concept of 'object permanence' refer to in developmental psychology?
Why is there an increasing interest in studying development in later life stages?
Why is there an increasing interest in studying development in later life stages?
What is the emphasis of Personality Psychology?
What is the emphasis of Personality Psychology?
Which statement best describes the role of early theorists like Freud, Maslow, and Allport in personality psychology?
Which statement best describes the role of early theorists like Freud, Maslow, and Allport in personality psychology?
Considering sensation and perception, which scenario best illustrates how perception is influenced by prior experience?
Considering sensation and perception, which scenario best illustrates how perception is influenced by prior experience?
A researcher is studying how children develop problem-solving skills at different ages. Which area of psychology does this research best align with?
A researcher is studying how children develop problem-solving skills at different ages. Which area of psychology does this research best align with?
A researcher is investigating the impact of mindfulness meditation on reducing anxiety levels in athletes before a major competition. Which subdiscipline of psychology does this align with most closely?
A researcher is investigating the impact of mindfulness meditation on reducing anxiety levels in athletes before a major competition. Which subdiscipline of psychology does this align with most closely?
Which of the following situations would MOST likely involve the expertise of a forensic psychologist?
Which of the following situations would MOST likely involve the expertise of a forensic psychologist?
A university psychology professor is conducting research on the effectiveness of a new therapy technique for treating depression, while also teaching undergraduate courses and serving on a university committee. Which aspect of a faculty appointment does this BEST represent?
A university psychology professor is conducting research on the effectiveness of a new therapy technique for treating depression, while also teaching undergraduate courses and serving on a university committee. Which aspect of a faculty appointment does this BEST represent?
A therapist is using techniques rooted in behaviorism to help a client overcome a fear of public speaking. Which therapeutic approach are they MOST likely employing?
A therapist is using techniques rooted in behaviorism to help a client overcome a fear of public speaking. Which therapeutic approach are they MOST likely employing?
A psychological researcher aims to understand how a person's social environment, psychological state, and physical health collectively influence their overall wellbeing. Which model are they likely employing?
A psychological researcher aims to understand how a person's social environment, psychological state, and physical health collectively influence their overall wellbeing. Which model are they likely employing?
Which of the following best describes the focus of modern personality research, contrasting it with Freud's approach?
Which of the following best describes the focus of modern personality research, contrasting it with Freud's approach?
Which professional activity would be LEAST likely to be undertaken by a clinical psychologist?
Which professional activity would be LEAST likely to be undertaken by a clinical psychologist?
According to the Five-Factor Model, an individual who is consistently anxious, insecure, and prone to negative emotions would score highly on which dimension?
According to the Five-Factor Model, an individual who is consistently anxious, insecure, and prone to negative emotions would score highly on which dimension?
In the context of forensic psychology, what is the primary role of an expert witness?
In the context of forensic psychology, what is the primary role of an expert witness?
What was the primary ethical concern raised by Stanley Milgram's obedience experiments?
What was the primary ethical concern raised by Stanley Milgram's obedience experiments?
Which of the following BEST describes the focus of counseling psychology?
Which of the following BEST describes the focus of counseling psychology?
In the Milgram experiment, what role did the 'research confederates' play?
In the Milgram experiment, what role did the 'research confederates' play?
What is the main goal of Industrial-Organizational (I-O) psychology?
What is the main goal of Industrial-Organizational (I-O) psychology?
A graduate student is preparing to defend their dissertation. What does this typically involve?
A graduate student is preparing to defend their dissertation. What does this typically involve?
A cognitive-behavioral therapist is working with a client who has social anxiety. What treatment approach would they MOST likely use?
A cognitive-behavioral therapist is working with a client who has social anxiety. What treatment approach would they MOST likely use?
An I-O psychologist is tasked with improving employee morale and productivity. Which of the following strategies would be most aligned with their expertise?
An I-O psychologist is tasked with improving employee morale and productivity. Which of the following strategies would be most aligned with their expertise?
A person wants to become a licensed psychologist and provide therapy to individuals with mental health disorders. What is the MOST typical educational path they would pursue?
A person wants to become a licensed psychologist and provide therapy to individuals with mental health disorders. What is the MOST typical educational path they would pursue?
Which model emphasizes the interaction of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors in determining health?
Which model emphasizes the interaction of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors in determining health?
A health psychologist is investigating the effectiveness of a stress-reduction program on cardiovascular health. Which of the following research approaches would be most appropriate?
A health psychologist is investigating the effectiveness of a stress-reduction program on cardiovascular health. Which of the following research approaches would be most appropriate?
What is a key distinction between clinical psychology and counseling psychology?
What is a key distinction between clinical psychology and counseling psychology?
A forensic psychologist is assisting in jury selection for a high-profile trial. What would be their MOST likely goal?
A forensic psychologist is assisting in jury selection for a high-profile trial. What would be their MOST likely goal?
What did Stanley Milgram's obedience experiments primarily demonstrate about human behavior?
What did Stanley Milgram's obedience experiments primarily demonstrate about human behavior?
In academia, what does the term 'service' typically refer to in the context of a psychology professor's responsibilities?
In academia, what does the term 'service' typically refer to in the context of a psychology professor's responsibilities?
In what way did the Milgram experiment influence ethical guidelines for psychological research?
In what way did the Milgram experiment influence ethical guidelines for psychological research?
Which of the following is NOT typically a focus of social psychologists?
Which of the following is NOT typically a focus of social psychologists?
A health psychologist is designing an intervention to encourage people to adopt healthier lifestyles. Which action would be MOST consistent with their expertise?
A health psychologist is designing an intervention to encourage people to adopt healthier lifestyles. Which action would be MOST consistent with their expertise?
In a study, researchers find that individuals who score high on conscientiousness in the Five-Factor Model tend to perform better in detail-oriented jobs. What does this illustrate?
In a study, researchers find that individuals who score high on conscientiousness in the Five-Factor Model tend to perform better in detail-oriented jobs. What does this illustrate?
A company is experiencing low employee satisfaction and high turnover. How might an I-O psychologist address this issue?
A company is experiencing low employee satisfaction and high turnover. How might an I-O psychologist address this issue?
A psychologist is using dream analysis to understand a patient's behavior. Which historical perspective is MOST closely aligned with this approach?
A psychologist is using dream analysis to understand a patient's behavior. Which historical perspective is MOST closely aligned with this approach?
A health psychologist is designing an intervention to promote healthy eating habits. Which approach would be most aligned with the biopsychosocial model?
A health psychologist is designing an intervention to promote healthy eating habits. Which approach would be most aligned with the biopsychosocial model?
What is one key difference between the study of personality and social psychology?
What is one key difference between the study of personality and social psychology?
Which of the following scenarios best exemplifies the application of Gestalt principles?
Which of the following scenarios best exemplifies the application of Gestalt principles?
A researcher argues that psychology should primarily focus on observable actions rather than internal mental states. Which school of thought aligns with this perspective?
A researcher argues that psychology should primarily focus on observable actions rather than internal mental states. Which school of thought aligns with this perspective?
A therapist emphasizes the importance of personal growth and self-actualization in helping clients overcome their challenges. Which approach is the therapist using?
A therapist emphasizes the importance of personal growth and self-actualization in helping clients overcome their challenges. Which approach is the therapist using?
The cognitive revolution in psychology involved a renewed focus on:
The cognitive revolution in psychology involved a renewed focus on:
Which area of psychology is MOST directly concerned with assessing and treating mental disorders?
Which area of psychology is MOST directly concerned with assessing and treating mental disorders?
An I-O psychologist is advising a company on how to improve employee morale and productivity. Which of the following actions would be MOST consistent with their expertise?
An I-O psychologist is advising a company on how to improve employee morale and productivity. Which of the following actions would be MOST consistent with their expertise?
A health psychologist is designing an intervention to help people quit smoking. Which approach would be MOST appropriate?
A health psychologist is designing an intervention to help people quit smoking. Which approach would be MOST appropriate?
A forensic psychologist is asked to assess the competency of a defendant to stand trial. This assessment primarily focuses on:
A forensic psychologist is asked to assess the competency of a defendant to stand trial. This assessment primarily focuses on:
Which research method is characterized by in-depth analysis of one or more individuals?
Which research method is characterized by in-depth analysis of one or more individuals?
A researcher wants to study the effect of a new medication on depression. Which experimental design helps ensure that participant characteristics are evenly distributed across experimental groups?
A researcher wants to study the effect of a new medication on depression. Which experimental design helps ensure that participant characteristics are evenly distributed across experimental groups?
What is the primary advantage of using the scientific method in psychological research?
What is the primary advantage of using the scientific method in psychological research?
A study finds a strong positive correlation between hours spent studying and exam scores. What can be concluded from this finding?
A study finds a strong positive correlation between hours spent studying and exam scores. What can be concluded from this finding?
A researcher deceives participants about the nature of a study to avoid influencing their behavior. Under what circumstances is this ethically permissible?
A researcher deceives participants about the nature of a study to avoid influencing their behavior. Under what circumstances is this ethically permissible?
Which perspective emphasizes the importance of understanding the purpose of consciousness and behavior in adapting to the environment?
Which perspective emphasizes the importance of understanding the purpose of consciousness and behavior in adapting to the environment?
Which of the following career paths is MOST likely pursued by an individual with a PsyD degree rather than a PhD in psychology?
Which of the following career paths is MOST likely pursued by an individual with a PsyD degree rather than a PhD in psychology?
A psychology graduate with a Master's degree is interested in working with students in an educational setting. Which of the following roles would be MOST appropriate for them?
A psychology graduate with a Master's degree is interested in working with students in an educational setting. Which of the following roles would be MOST appropriate for them?
An individual with a PhD in biopsychology is seeking a career outside of academia. Which of the following options aligns BEST with their expertise?
An individual with a PhD in biopsychology is seeking a career outside of academia. Which of the following options aligns BEST with their expertise?
A student is interested in a career that combines psychology and law. Which of the following career paths would be MOST suitable?
A student is interested in a career that combines psychology and law. Which of the following career paths would be MOST suitable?
What is the MOST significant difference between a clinical psychologist and a psychiatrist in terms of their professional training and capabilities?
What is the MOST significant difference between a clinical psychologist and a psychiatrist in terms of their professional training and capabilities?
A recent psychology graduate with a BA degree is seeking employment. Considering the skills acquired during their undergraduate studies, which of the following entry-level positions is MOST aligned with their qualifications?
A recent psychology graduate with a BA degree is seeking employment. Considering the skills acquired during their undergraduate studies, which of the following entry-level positions is MOST aligned with their qualifications?
An individual is interested in pursuing a career as a licensed professional counselor. What is the MINIMUM educational requirement they typically need to meet?
An individual is interested in pursuing a career as a licensed professional counselor. What is the MINIMUM educational requirement they typically need to meet?
Which of the following scenarios BEST describes a situation where an adjunct faculty member would be utilized in a university's psychology department?
Which of the following scenarios BEST describes a situation where an adjunct faculty member would be utilized in a university's psychology department?
What is the PRIMARY purpose of postdoctoral training programs in psychology?
What is the PRIMARY purpose of postdoctoral training programs in psychology?
How might undergraduate coursework in psychology be MOST beneficial in a career such as psychiatric nursing?
How might undergraduate coursework in psychology be MOST beneficial in a career such as psychiatric nursing?
What is a key distinction of research-focused faculty positions at universities?
What is a key distinction of research-focused faculty positions at universities?
Why might a person with a PhD in psychology choose to work at a 2-year college?
Why might a person with a PhD in psychology choose to work at a 2-year college?
A psychology student is considering whether to pursue a PhD or a PsyD. What factor should weigh MOST heavily in their decision?
A psychology student is considering whether to pursue a PhD or a PsyD. What factor should weigh MOST heavily in their decision?
In recent years, what change has occurred in some states regarding the requirements for becoming a licensed clinical or counseling psychologist?
In recent years, what change has occurred in some states regarding the requirements for becoming a licensed clinical or counseling psychologist?
According to the information provided, what is a career path for someone with undergraduate coursework in psychology?
According to the information provided, what is a career path for someone with undergraduate coursework in psychology?
Which of the following scenarios best illustrates how psychological research can inform public policy decisions?
Which of the following scenarios best illustrates how psychological research can inform public policy decisions?
A psychologist is studying the effectiveness of a new therapy for anxiety. What would be the most critical element in ensuring their research is empirical?
A psychologist is studying the effectiveness of a new therapy for anxiety. What would be the most critical element in ensuring their research is empirical?
Why is it important for consumers of information to exercise healthy skepticism, especially when encountering claims of 'scientific evidence' in advertising or on the internet?
Why is it important for consumers of information to exercise healthy skepticism, especially when encountering claims of 'scientific evidence' in advertising or on the internet?
In what way does psychology, as a scientific discipline, differ from relying solely on intuition or personal experience to understand behavior?
In what way does psychology, as a scientific discipline, differ from relying solely on intuition or personal experience to understand behavior?
When evaluating conflicting research findings, such as studies on technology's impact on students, what approach is most consistent with critical thinking?
When evaluating conflicting research findings, such as studies on technology's impact on students, what approach is most consistent with critical thinking?
A researcher wants to understand why a child is displaying aggressive behavior. According to psychological science, what is the most effective initial approach?
A researcher wants to understand why a child is displaying aggressive behavior. According to psychological science, what is the most effective initial approach?
What should a governor consider most when deciding whether to continue funding a social program?
What should a governor consider most when deciding whether to continue funding a social program?
Maria is concerned about her child Umberto's speech delays relative to other children. What should inform Umberto's need for an extended speech pathology evaluation, according to the principles outlined?
Maria is concerned about her child Umberto's speech delays relative to other children. What should inform Umberto's need for an extended speech pathology evaluation, according to the principles outlined?
A new study claims that listening to a specific type of music significantly increases intelligence. What question would be MOST important to ask when critically evaluating this claim?
A new study claims that listening to a specific type of music significantly increases intelligence. What question would be MOST important to ask when critically evaluating this claim?
Why might an individual be unable to provide honest or accurate answers about their own behavior?
Why might an individual be unable to provide honest or accurate answers about their own behavior?
If a research finding cannot be consistently reproduced by different researchers, what major criterion of scientific knowledge is undermined?
If a research finding cannot be consistently reproduced by different researchers, what major criterion of scientific knowledge is undermined?
What is the primary reason that psychologists utilize the scientific method when investigating human behavior?
What is the primary reason that psychologists utilize the scientific method when investigating human behavior?
What is the MOST important factor when deciding whether to believe a claim?
What is the MOST important factor when deciding whether to believe a claim?
If a new study claims drinking coffee causes increased anxiety, what question is most crucial to consider?
If a new study claims drinking coffee causes increased anxiety, what question is most crucial to consider?
What is the LEAST helpful thing to do when evaluating information?
What is the LEAST helpful thing to do when evaluating information?
Which skill, honed by psychology students, involves applying a set of abilities to understand and evaluate information?
Which skill, honed by psychology students, involves applying a set of abilities to understand and evaluate information?
Why is the skill of evaluating information important, as emphasized in the study of psychology?
Why is the skill of evaluating information important, as emphasized in the study of psychology?
What role does understanding the interaction of biology, environment, and experiences play in psychology?
What role does understanding the interaction of biology, environment, and experiences play in psychology?
Who is credited as the first person to be referred to as a psychologist?
Who is credited as the first person to be referred to as a psychologist?
Which concept, advocated by Wilhelm Wundt, emphasizes that people possess free will and should be informed of the intentions behind a psychological experiment?
Which concept, advocated by Wilhelm Wundt, emphasizes that people possess free will and should be informed of the intentions behind a psychological experiment?
What was the main focus of structuralism, developed by Edward Titchener, a student of Wilhelm Wundt?
What was the main focus of structuralism, developed by Edward Titchener, a student of Wilhelm Wundt?
In Wundt's psychology laboratory, what was a common method used to measure a subject's reaction to a stimulus?
In Wundt's psychology laboratory, what was a common method used to measure a subject's reaction to a stimulus?
Which of the following describes introspection as used by Wilhelm Wundt?
Which of the following describes introspection as used by Wilhelm Wundt?
What concept from Darwin's theory of evolution did functional psychologists like William James apply to their understanding of psychology?
What concept from Darwin's theory of evolution did functional psychologists like William James apply to their understanding of psychology?
According to the theory of evolution by natural selection, what does adaptation refer to?
According to the theory of evolution by natural selection, what does adaptation refer to?
What is the significance of psychology students developing better communication skills?
What is the significance of psychology students developing better communication skills?
Why is psychology considered a relatively young science?
Why is psychology considered a relatively young science?
Before the 19th century, how were issues related to the mind typically explored?
Before the 19th century, how were issues related to the mind typically explored?
Which of the following did Wundt suggest should be included within the realm of psychology?
Which of the following did Wundt suggest should be included within the realm of psychology?
How did Wilhelm Wundt view psychology?
How did Wilhelm Wundt view psychology?
Flashcards
Psychology
Psychology
The scientific study of the mind and behavior.
Hypothesis
Hypothesis
A tentative explanation for a phenomenon, used as a starting point for further investigation.
Scientific Theory
Scientific Theory
A broad explanation for aspects of the natural world, supported by evidence over time.
Scientific Method
Scientific Method
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Empirical Method
Empirical Method
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Empirical
Empirical
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Psychology's Scope
Psychology's Scope
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Psychologists Approach
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Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking
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Communication Skills (in Psychology)
Communication Skills (in Psychology)
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Scientific Literacy
Scientific Literacy
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Wilhelm Wundt
Wilhelm Wundt
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Introspection
Introspection
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Voluntarism
Voluntarism
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Structuralism
Structuralism
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Functionalism
Functionalism
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Leipzig Laboratory
Leipzig Laboratory
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Reaction Time
Reaction Time
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Functionalism's scope
Functionalism's scope
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Sigmund Freud
Sigmund Freud
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Functionalism
Functionalism
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Natural Selection
Natural Selection
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Unconscious mind
Unconscious mind
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Psychoanalytic theory
Psychoanalytic theory
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Adaptation
Adaptation
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Mark Zuckerberg
Mark Zuckerberg
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Psychoanalysis
Psychoanalysis
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John Dewey
John Dewey
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Westen's defense of Freud
Westen's defense of Freud
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Gestalt psychology
Gestalt psychology
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Charles Sanders Peirce
Charles Sanders Peirce
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Relation of Gestalt Psychology
Relation of Gestalt Psychology
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Wertheimer, Koffka, Köhler
Wertheimer, Koffka, Köhler
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Gestalt principle
Gestalt principle
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Emphasis of Gestalt Psychology
Emphasis of Gestalt Psychology
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Foundation of humanistic theory
Foundation of humanistic theory
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Psychology focus
Psychology focus
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Hysteria
Hysteria
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Humanistic Perspective
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Humanistic Research
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Carl Rogers
Carl Rogers
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Client-Centered Therapy
Client-Centered Therapy
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Unconditional Positive Regard
Unconditional Positive Regard
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Therapist's 3 Features
Therapist's 3 Features
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Behaviorism's Focus
Behaviorism's Focus
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Cognitive Revolution
Cognitive Revolution
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Ulric Neisser
Ulric Neisser
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Noam Chomsky
Noam Chomsky
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Cognitive Sciences
Cognitive Sciences
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Psychology's Early Bias
Psychology's Early Bias
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"Womanless" Psychology
"Womanless" Psychology
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Naomi Weisstein
Naomi Weisstein
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Feminist Psychology
Feminist Psychology
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Conditioned Reflex
Conditioned Reflex
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Classical Conditioning
Classical Conditioning
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Behaviorism
Behaviorism
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Animal Models in Behaviorism
Animal Models in Behaviorism
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Operant Conditioning Chamber (Skinner Box)
Operant Conditioning Chamber (Skinner Box)
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Reinforcement
Reinforcement
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Punishment
Punishment
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Humanism
Humanism
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Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
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Self-Actualization
Self-Actualization
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Who Studied Conditioned Reflex?
Who Studied Conditioned Reflex?
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John B. Watson
John B. Watson
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B.F. Skinner
B.F. Skinner
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Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers
Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers
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APA
APA
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APS
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Biopsychology
Biopsychology
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Biological Psychology focus
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Neuroscience
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Evolutionary Psychology
Evolutionary Psychology
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Evolutionary Adaptation
Evolutionary Adaptation
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Universal Behavior Expectation
Universal Behavior Expectation
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Evolutionary Psychology Approach
Evolutionary Psychology Approach
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Biopsychology focus
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Proving Adaptation
Proving Adaptation
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APA founder
APA founder
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Why APS was founded
Why APS was founded
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NLPA, AAPA, ABPsi, SIP
NLPA, AAPA, ABPsi, SIP
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Naomi Weisstein's Critique
Naomi Weisstein's Critique
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Culture
Culture
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WEIRD Societies
WEIRD Societies
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Multicultural Psychology
Multicultural Psychology
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Cross-Cultural Psychology
Cross-Cultural Psychology
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Francis Cecil Sumner
Francis Cecil Sumner
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George I. Sanchez
George I. Sanchez
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Mamie & Kenneth Clark
Mamie & Kenneth Clark
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APA's Ethnically Based Organizations
APA's Ethnically Based Organizations
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Margaret Floy Washburn
Margaret Floy Washburn
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Mary Whiton Calkins
Mary Whiton Calkins
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Mary Whiton Calkins' Research
Mary Whiton Calkins' Research
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Mary Cover Jones
Mary Cover Jones
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Martha Bernal
Martha Bernal
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Facts
Facts
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Opinions
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Research
Research
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Empirical Research
Empirical Research
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Evidence-Based Facts
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Evolved Behavioral Traits
Evolved Behavioral Traits
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Sensation and Perception
Sensation and Perception
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Cognitive Psychology
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Developmental Psychology
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Object Permanence
Object Permanence
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Personality Psychology
Personality Psychology
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Mate Preferences
Mate Preferences
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Developmental Psychology Focus
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Aging Population
Aging Population
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World Experience
World Experience
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Cognitive Psychology Focus
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Buss (1989)
Buss (1989)
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Predictions of evolution
Predictions of evolution
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Sensation Factors
Sensation Factors
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Freud's Personality Theory
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Personality Traits
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The "Big Five"/Five Factor Model
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Social Psychology
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Research Confederates
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Industrial-Organizational Psychology
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Health Psychology
Health Psychology
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Biopsychosocial Model
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Conscientiousness
Conscientiousness
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Agreeableness
Agreeableness
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Neuroticism
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Openness
Openness
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Extraversion
Extraversion
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Milgram's Obedience Study
Milgram's Obedience Study
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Informed Consent
Informed Consent
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Sport & Exercise Psychology
Sport & Exercise Psychology
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Clinical Psychology
Clinical Psychology
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Counseling Psychology
Counseling Psychology
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Forensic Psychology
Forensic Psychology
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Competency to Stand Trial
Competency to Stand Trial
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Expert Witnesses
Expert Witnesses
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Dissertation
Dissertation
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Ph.D.
Ph.D.
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Defend a Dissertation
Defend a Dissertation
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Faculty Appointment
Faculty Appointment
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Forensic Psychologist roles
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Psychology career requirements
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Adjunct Faculty/Instructor
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PsyD Degree
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Licensed Psychologist
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Clinical Psychologist
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Psychiatrist
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Postdoctoral Training
Postdoctoral Training
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Forensic Psychologist
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Professional Counselor
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School Psychologist
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Sports Psychologist
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Industrial Consultant
Industrial Consultant
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Credential Evaluation
Credential Evaluation
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Research Focused Academic Positions
Research Focused Academic Positions
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Psychologist
Psychologist
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Biopsychologist in Pharma
Biopsychologist in Pharma
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Humanistic Psychology
Humanistic Psychology
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Biological Psychology
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Industrial and Organizational (I-O) Psychology
Industrial and Organizational (I-O) Psychology
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Sport and Exercise Psychology
Sport and Exercise Psychology
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Goal of Scientists
Goal of Scientists
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Scientific Research
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Empirical Knowledge
Empirical Knowledge
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Scientific Consensus
Scientific Consensus
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Early Intervention Programs
Early Intervention Programs
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Use of Research Information
Use of Research Information
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Smartphone app benefit
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Technology Use Drawbacks
Technology Use Drawbacks
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Early Intervention Programs benefits
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Gain for Claim
Gain for Claim
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Programs Outcomes
Programs Outcomes
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Speech Development
Speech Development
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Speech Delay
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Speech Pathologist
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Study Notes
- Psychology explores questions related to the mind and behavior using the scientific method.
- Psychologists apply the scientific method to gain knowledge.
- A researcher poses a hypothesis, a tentative explanation, fitting into a scientific theory.
- A scientific theory is a well-supported explanation of the natural world.
- Researchers test a hypothesis, then publish results for replication or further study.
- Scientists test perceivable and measurable phenomena.
- Psychological science is empirical, based on measurable data.
- Science focuses on matter and energy, limiting understanding of thoughts.
- The scientific method is a form of empiricism, relying on observation and experimentation.
- Psychology became a distinct academic discipline in the late 1800s.
- Behavior is rooted in biology, making psychology partly a natural science.
- Behavior is influenced by interactions with others, making psychology also a social science.
Why Study Psychology?
- Interest in helping others and self-understanding often motivates students to study psychology.
- Psychology is a popular major on college campuses.
- Studying psychology develops critical thinking skills and training in the scientific method.
- Critical thinking involves evaluating information, recognizing biases, and using logical thinking.
- Psychology students develop communication skills, increasing scientific literacy.
- Psychology students understand the interplay of biology, environment, and experiences in shaping behavior and recognize diversity across individuals and cultures.
- Psychology is a relatively young science with experimental roots in the 19th century.
Wundt and Structuralism
- Wilhelm Wundt (1832–1920) was the first person referred to as a psychologist and viewed it as a scientific study of conscious experience.
- Wundt aimed to identify components of consciousness and how they combine.
- Introspection ("internal perception") was used to examine conscious experience objectively.
- Wundt believed in voluntarism, emphasizing free will and informed consent.
- Wundt's experimental introspection involved instruments to measure reaction time.
- Wundt suggested psychology should include the study of culture.
- Edward Titchener, Wundt's student, developed structuralism, focusing on mental process contents.
- Wundt's laboratory at the University at Leipzig in 1879 conducted reaction time experiments.
- Subjects reacted to stimuli; reaction time measured to one-thousandth of a second.
- Introspection remained subjective with little agreement between individuals.
Functionalism
- William James, John Dewey, and Charles Sanders Peirce established functional psychology.
- They embraced Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection, viewing it as an explanation of an organism’s characteristics.
- Natural selection leads to organisms adapted to their environment, including behavior.
- Adaptation is a trait with a survival and reproduction function due to natural selection.
- James defined psychology’s purpose as studying the function of behavior.
- Functionalism studied how mental activities helped an organism fit into its environment.
- Functionalists focused on the whole mind's operation, unlike structuralism's focus on individual parts.
- James used introspection and objective measures, including recording devices, concrete products, and anatomy/physiology.
Freud and Psychoanalytic Theory
- Sigmund Freud (1856–1939) studied patients with "hysteria" and neurosis.
- Freud theorized that many problems arose from the unconscious mind.
- The unconscious mind is a repository of unaware feelings and urges.
- Accessing the unconscious was crucial to resolving patient problems via dream analysis, word association, and slips of the tongue.
- Psychoanalytic theory focuses on unconsciousness and early childhood experiences, dominating clinical psychology for decades.
- Psychoanalysis involves patients discussing experiences, popularized by Freud and still used.
- Criticisms of Freud's ideas are misplaced, attacking older ideas and failing to consider successes.
- Freud introduced ideas like childhood experiences influencing adult motivations, and the importance of unconscious motivations.
- Motivations can cause conflicts affecting behavior, and mental representations guide interactions.
- Personality develops over time.
- Modern psychoanalytic approaches have empirical support.
- Current psychotherapy examines unconscious aspects through the therapist-client relationship.
Wertheimer, Koffka, Köhler, and Gestalt Psychology
- Max Wertheimer (1880–1943), Kurt Koffka (1886–1941), and Wolfgang Köhler (1887–1967) introduced Gestalt principles to the United States.
- Gestalt emphasizes that sensory experience, though divisible, is perceived as a whole.
- The relationship between parts determines individual response in perception.
- Gestalt contradicted Wundt’s structuralism ideas.
- Moving to the United States hindered their work, coupled with Behaviorism limited Gestalt's influence compared to Germany.
- Gestalt principles remain influential and considering the individual as a whole influenced humanistic theory.
- Gestalt ideas continue to influence research on sensation and perception.
Pavlov, Watson, Skinner, and Behaviorism
- Ivan Pavlov (1849–1936) studied conditioned reflexes, where a reflex response becomes associated with a new stimulus.
- Pavlov's classical conditioning studied salivation in response to food and associated stimuli.
- John B. Watson (1878–1958) focused on observable behavior due to flaws in studying consciousness.
- Behaviorism observes and controls behavior and shifts psychology's focus from mind to behavior.
- Learned behavior and interaction with inborn qualities were studied, often using animals under the assumption that findings could be applied to humans.
- Behaviorism dominated experimental psychology established psychology as a scientific discipline.
- It is used in behavioral and cognitive-behavioral therapy and has led to research on environmental influences.
- B. F. Skinner (1904–1990) studied how consequences affect behavior.
- Skinner developed an operant conditioning chamber (Skinner box) to study behavior through reinforcement and punishment.
- The Skinner box isolates subjects and delivers reinforcement/punishment upon specific actions.
- Skinner focused on positive/negative reinforcement with lasting influence, though waned with cognitive psychology growth.
- Conditioned learning is used in human behavioral modification.
Maslow, Rogers, and Humanism
- Humanism emerged due to discomfort with the limited perspectives of behaviorism and psychoanalysis.
- Humanism emphasizes personal control, intentionality, and a predisposition for "good."
- Humanism focuses on the potential for good innate to all humans.
- Abraham Maslow (1908–1970) proposed a hierarchy of needs, motivating behavior.
- Basic survival needs must be met for higher-level needs (social) to motivate behavior.
- The highest-level need is self-actualization, achieving full potential.
- Humanistic psychologists rejected reductionist experimentation and emphasized qualitative research, including studies on happiness, self-concept, and meditation.
- Carl Rogers (1902–1987) also emphasized potential for good.
- Rogers used client-centered therapy, where the patient leads the session.
- Therapists need unconditional positive regard, genuineness, and empathy.
- Rogers believed people were capable of working through their own issues.
- Humanism influenced psychology and Rogers’s client-centered approach is still used.
The Cognitive Revolution
- The Cognitive Revolution renewed focus on the mind as a scientific inquiry by the 1950s.
- New perspectives in linguistics, neuroscience, and computer science emerged.
- Ulric Neisser published "Cognitive Psychology" in 1967, a core text in cognitive psychology.
- Noam Chomsky challenged behaviorism's influence and the focus on behavior.
- Chomsky believed psychology needed to re-incorporate mental functioning.
- European psychology was less influenced by behaviorism, and the revolution helped reestablish lines of communication.
- Psychologists cooperated with scientists in other fields, referred to as the cognitive sciences.
- This interdisciplinary approach resonates in modern-day psychology.
Dig Deeper - Feminist Psychology
- Psychology's history has been affected by the biases of Western, White, male academics with negative consequences for non-White and female individuals.
- Until the 1960s, psychology was largely "womanless," with little female influence.
- Experimental subjects were mostly men, assuming gender had no influence.
- Naomi Weisstein's 1968 critique sparked a feminist revolution in psychology.
- Weisstein criticized male psychologists for constructing the psychology of women out of cultural biases.
- Feminist psychology sought to remove male cultural biases from the psychology of women including re-evaluating women's contributions, studying gender differences, and questioning male bias.
Multicultural And Cross-Cultural Psychology
- Culture impacts individuals, groups, and society.
- Researchers are trying to correct the over-study of certain populations.
- WEIRD (western, educated, industrialized, rich, and democratic) societies have been overstudied and the results wrongly applied to non-WEIRD societies.
- There are differences between people in WEIRD versus less industrialized societies, in perception, cooperation, and moral reasoning.
- Multicultural psychologists develop theories and conduct research with diverse populations, typically within one country.
- Cross-cultural psychologists compare populations across countries.
- Francis Cecil Sumner, in 1920, was the first African American to receive a PhD in psychology and he established a psychology degree program at Howard University.
- Early psychologists from diverse backgrounds challenged intelligence testing and promoted innovative educational methods for children.
- George I. Sanchez contested testing with Mexican American children, noting language and cultural barriers.
- By 1940, he was teaching at The University of Texas at Austin challenging segregated educational practices.
- Mamie Phipps Clark and Kenneth Clark studied African American children and doll preference, research that helped with the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court desegregation case.
- The Clarks applied their research to social services and opened Harlem's first child guidance center.
- The American Psychological Association has ethnically based organizations for professional psychologists studying their own communities and issues.
WOMEN IN PSYCHOLOGY
- Women have contributed to psychology since its beginning.
- In 1894, Margaret Floy Washburn was the first woman awarded a doctoral degree in psychology.
- Mary Whiton Calkins completed all requirements toward a PhD in psychology in the mid-1890s, but Harvard University refused to award her that degree because she was a woman.
- Mary Cover Jones unconditioned fear in Little Peter, who had been afraid of rabbits
- Ethnic minority women contributors include Martha Bernal and Inez Beverly Prosser; their studies were related to education.
- Bernal, the first Latina to earn her doctoral degree in psychology (1962) conducted much of her research with Mexican American children.
- Prosser was the first African American woman awarded the PhD in 1933.
Contemporary Psychology
- Contemporary psychology is shaped by historical perspectives.
- The APA (American Psychological Association) is the largest organization of psychologists in the world, advancing psychological knowledge.
- The APA has 54 divisions representing a wide range of specialties.
- Members, affiliate members, and associate members are from students to doctoral-level psychologists, in various settings.
- G. Stanley Hall was the first president of the APA.
- The APS (Association for Psychological Science) was founded in 1988, seeks to advance the scientific orientation of psychology and publishes five research journals.
- Other organizations provide networking/collaboration for professionals of several ethnic or racial groups, also dedicated to studying psychological and social issues within their specific communities.
Biopsychology and Evolutionary Psychology
- Biopsychology explores how biology influences behavior, focusing on the nervous system's structure and function.
- It combines research strategies of psychologists and physiologists, spanning sensory, motor, sleep, drug, ingestive, reproductive, neurodevelopment, plasticity, and psychological disorder domains.
- Individuals from biology, medicine, physiology, and chemistry backgrounds are involved.
- This interdisciplinary approach is often referred to as neuroscience.
- Evolutionary psychology studies ultimate biological causes of behavior, including adaptation to physical and social environments.
- Charles Darwin explored adaptive behaviors that have a significant genetic cause.
- Most evolutionary psychologists predict behavioral outcomes based on evolutionary theory.
- Demonstrating behaviors are adaptive is difficult, since they lack information that the behavior is in some part genetic and not entirely cultural.
- Evolutionary psychologists often assume their study behaviors have genetic determinants.
- Current traits evolved under past conditions, making adaptive behavior predictions difficult.
- Evolution can predict human behavior in memory, mate choice, kin relationships, friendship, cooperation, parenting, social organization, and status.
- Men value potential reproductive factors (youth and attractiveness) greater than women in prospective mates.
- Women valued earning potential factors greater than men.
Sensation and Perception
- Scientists that are interested in both the physiological processes that sensory systems are built upon and the psychological experience, the study of sensation and perception is for you
- Sensation and perception research is interdisciplinary.
- Our experience of our world is complex and is influenced by where we focus our attention, our previous experiences, and even our cultural backgrounds.
Cognitive Psychology
- Cognitive psychology is the area of psychology that focuses on studying cognitions, or thoughts, and their relationship to our experiences and our actions.
- Cognitive psychology is broad in its scope and often involves collaborations among people from a diverse range of disciplinary backgrounds.
- term cognitive science is used to describe the interdisciplinary cognitive research.
- Cognitive psychologists have research interests that span attention, problem solving, language, and memory.
Developmental Psychology
- Developmental psychology is defined as the scientific study of development across a lifespan.
- However, their focus is not limited to the physical changes associated with aging, as they also focus on changes in cognitive skills, moral reasoning, social behavior, and other psychological attributes.
- Object permanence refers to the understanding that physical things continue to exist, even if they are hidden from us.
- Researching the changes that occur later in life due to changing population demographics.
Personality Psychology
- Personality psychology focuses on patterns of thoughts and behaviors that make each individual unique.
- Early theorists attempted to explain how an individual’s personality develops from their given perspective.
- Freud proposed personality developed from conscious/unconscious conflicts, going through psychosexual stages.
- Personality traits are relatively consistent patterns of thought and behavior.
- Five trait dimensions capture the variations in personality seen across individuals, is known as the “Big Five” or the Five Factor model, and include dimensions of conscientiousness, agreeableness, neuroticism, openness, and extraversion.
- Each of these traits has been demonstrated to be relatively stable over the lifespan and is influenced by genetics.
Social Psychology
- Social psychology focuses on how we interact with and relate to others.
- Social psychologists conduct research on a wide variety of topics that include differences in how we explain our own behavior versus how we explain the behaviors of others, prejudice, and attraction, and how we resolve interpersonal conflicts.
- Social psychologists have also sought to determine how being among other people changes our own behavior and patterns of thinking.
- Stanley Milgram conducted famous research on obedience, where participants delivered what they believed to be lethal shocks.
- Milgram’s experiment led to ethical guidelines for conducting psychological research that discourage the use of deception of research subjects and also requires informed consent of participants.
Industrial-Organizational Psychology
- The sub field of psychology that applies psychological theories, principles, and research findings in industrial and organizational settings.
- I-O psychologists are involved in issues related to personnel management, organizational structure, and workplace environment.
- Businesses that seek the aid of I-O psychologists do so to make the best hiring decisions as well as to create an environment that results in high levels of employee productivity and efficiency.
- I-O psychology also involves conducting scientific research on behavior within I-O settings
Health Psychology
- Focusing on how health is affected by the interaction of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors.
- The biopsychosocial model.
- Health psychologists are interested in helping individuals achieve better health through public policy, education, intervention, and research.
- Health psychologists might conduct research that explores the relationship between one’s genetic makeup, patterns of behavior, relationships, psychological stress, and health.
- They may research effective ways to motivate people to address patterns of behavior that contribute to poorer health.
Sport and Exercise Psychology
- Study the psychological aspects of sport performance, including motivation and performance anxiety, and the effects of sport on mental and emotional wellbeing.
- Interactions between mental and physical performance under demanding conditions.
Clinical Psychology
- Clinical psychology is the area of psychology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders and other problematic patterns of behavior.
- Counseling psychology is a similar discipline that focuses on emotional, social, vocational, and health-related outcomes in individuals who are considered psychologically healthy.
- Freud and Rogers have been influential shaping how clinicians interact with people seeking psychotherapy.
- Both behaviorism and the cognitive revolution have shaped clinical practice in the forms of behavioral therapy cognitive therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Clinical psychology receives the most attention in popular media.
Forensic Psychology
- Forensic psychology is defined as a branch of psychology that deals with questions of psychology as they arise in the context of the justice system.
- Forensic psychologists (and forensic psychiatrists) will assess a person’s competency to stand trial, assess the state of mind of a defendant, act as consultants on child custody cases, consult on sentencing and treatment recommendations, and advise on issues such as eyewitness testimony and children’s testimony
- As expert witnesses, forensic psychologists must have a good understanding of the law and provide information in the context of the legal system
- Criminal profilers are a relatively small proportion of psychologists that act as consultants to law enforcement.
Careers in Psychology
- Requires doctoral degrees for academic careers and nonacademic career options for people who have master’s degrees in psychology.
- BA degrees have limited psychology-related career options, the skills acquired as a function of an undergraduate education in psychology are useful in a variety of work contexts.
- PhD (doctor of philosophy degree), individuals earning this degree must complete a dissertation.
- Serving as case managers, working in sales, working in human resource departments, and teaching in high schools.
- Postdoctoral training programs allow young scientists to further develop their research programs and broaden their research skills under the supervision of other professionals in the field
- PsyD (doctor of psychology degree).
- As licensed clinical psychologists can administer and interpret psychological tests, while psychiatrists can prescribe medications.
Why Research is Important
- Scientific research helps navigate a complex world, unlike intuition or luck.
- Systematic research helps gain an objective understanding, free from preconceived notions.
- Psychologists focus on understanding behavior, cognition, and physiological processes.
- Scientific research relies on empirical evidence to support claims.
- Scientific knowledge is grounded in objective evidence that can be observed repeatedly
- Empirical is defined as grounded in objective, tangible evidence that can be observed time and time again, regardless of who is observing.
- the mind is not. If someone is crying, we can see behavior.
- Psychologists find better ways understand behavior in such circumstances.
Use of Research Information
- Determining which theories are accepted by the scientific community can be difficult due conflicting studies
- The use and implementation of technology in educational settings has become widespread
- We should strive to think critically about the information we encounter by exercising a degree of healthy skepticism.
- Decisions based on information have consequences, seen in politics and public policy.
- Decisions can be guided in our lives, so we may look to research from time to time.
- Research is what makes the difference between facts and opinions.
- Facts are observable realities, and opinions are personal judgments, may or may not be accurate.
- In the scientific community, facts can be established using evidence via empirical research.
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Description
Explore key concepts in psychological research including hypothesis formulation, the role of psychology as a bridge between sciences, distinguishing theories from hypotheses, and applying the scientific method. Also, learn about empirical approaches.
