Psychology as a Science Overview
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Questions and Answers

Which area did structuralists not study according to the outlined content?

  • Intellectually challenged individuals
  • Adults (correct)
  • Animals
  • Children
  • What significant contribution did Mary Calkins make in the field of psychology?

  • Developed drive theory
  • Conducted little Albert study
  • 1st female president of APA (correct)
  • Studied classical conditioning
  • Which technique is NOT associated with Sigmund Freud's psychoanalysis?

  • Free association
  • Dream analysis
  • Conditioning (correct)
  • Hypnosis
  • What was the primary focus of behaviorism as proposed by John B. Watson?

    <p>Observable behavior (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following early experiences did Freud NOT emphasize in his development of personality theory?

    <p>Societal contributions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which Russian scientist is known for his work in classical conditioning?

    <p>Ivan Pavlov (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the goals of Watson's behaviorism?

    <p>To predict and control behavior (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what era did behaviorism primarily gain prominence?

    <p>1920’s to 1970’s (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best defines psychology as a scientific discipline?

    <p>A systematic investigation of mental processes and behavior (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a primary focus of Wilhelm Wundt's research in structuralism?

    <p>The elements of the conscious mind through introspection (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following schools of psychology emphasizes adaptation to the environment?

    <p>Functionalism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which psychologist is considered the father of American Psychology?

    <p>William James (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What method did Edward Titchener use to explore the components of consciousness?

    <p>Introspection (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which approach is NOT typically associated with the historical development of psychology?

    <p>Statistical Psychology (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant contribution of Wilhelm Wundt to the field of psychology?

    <p>Establishing the first experimental psychology lab (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did functionalism differ from structuralism in its focus?

    <p>On how mental processes help adapt organisms rather than their structure (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a confound in experimental research?

    <p>A variable that varies across the groups and may affect the outcome (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about correlational research is TRUE?

    <p>It relies on observational data rather than controlled experiments. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a correlation coefficient of $r = -0.75$ indicate?

    <p>A strong negative relationship between two variables (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is replication important in experimental research?

    <p>It confirms the validity of the findings across different studies. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What purpose do inferential statistics serve?

    <p>To make conclusions about a population based on sample data (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes observational research?

    <p>Observation and description of behavior without interference. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of observational research involves observing behavior in a natural environment?

    <p>Naturalistic Observation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one key disadvantage of participant observation?

    <p>There is a potential for observer bias. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In experimental research, what is the independent variable?

    <p>The variable that is manipulated or controlled. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of using a control group in an experiment?

    <p>To compare against the experimental group. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an essential characteristic of a representative sample in research?

    <p>It accurately reflects the diversity of the population. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does 'random assignment' help achieve in experimental research?

    <p>Elimination of participant bias. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does sociocultural psychology primarily focus on?

    <p>The role of social and cultural factors in behavior development (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a suitable application of a case study in research?

    <p>Examining rare or poorly understood individual conditions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which psychologist emphasized the importance of social interactions in cognitive development?

    <p>Lev Vygotsky (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which area of psychology focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders?

    <p>Clinical Psychology (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes applied science from pure science?

    <p>Applied science focuses on solving practical problems (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of psychology studies behaviors across different species?

    <p>Comparative Psychology (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is pseudoscience?

    <p>Ideas presented as scientific without proper methodology (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which area of specialization in psychology applies principles in business settings?

    <p>Industrial/Organizational Psychology (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary interest of developmental psychology?

    <p>Examining changes in behavior across a lifespan (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What fundamental concept did Skinner's operant conditioning focus on?

    <p>The frequency of behavior as influenced by consequences (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which psychologist is associated with the development of client-centered therapy?

    <p>Carl Rogers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs imply about self-actualization?

    <p>It occurs only after all lower-level needs are satisfied. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primary aspect distinguishes Gestalt psychology from structuralism?

    <p>Emphasis on perception of whole units (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant contribution of cognitive psychology in the 1950s and 1960s?

    <p>Interest in mental processes and their significance (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements aligns with Noam Chomsky's views on language development?

    <p>Language abilities are innate and not solely taught. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does physiological psychology view the relationship between behavior and biology?

    <p>It emphasizes the role of genetics and the endocrine system. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does evolutionary psychology focus on in understanding behavior and mental processes?

    <p>Behavioral changes as a result of natural selection (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What perception of individuals is central to humanistic psychology?

    <p>Uniqueness and capacity for self-growth (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes positive psychology?

    <p>Optimizing human functioning and well-being (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Psychology Definition

    Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior.

    Structuralism

    A school of psychology that aimed to identify the basic elements of conscious experience through introspection.

    Functionalism

    A school of psychology that focused on the functions of mental processes, how they help us adapt to our environment.

    Wilhelm Wundt

    Founder of the first psychology laboratory, considered the 'father of modern psychology'.

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    Introspection

    A method used in structuralism where people report their thoughts, feelings, and sensations.

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    William James

    Key figure in functionalism & "Father of American Psychology" focusing on adaptive functions of the mind.

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    Schools of Psychology

    Different approaches or perspectives within psychology, each with its own theories and methods.

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    Father of Modern Psychology

    Refers to Wilhelm Wundt, who established the first psychology lab.

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    Psychoanalysis

    A school of thought that emphasizes influence of unconscious processes on behavior, developed by Freud.

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    Behaviorism

    A movement that emphasized observable behavior as the primary focus of psychology.

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    Classical Conditioning

    A learning process where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with an unconditioned stimulus, triggering a conditioned response.

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    Sigmund Freud

    Founder of psychoanalysis, emphasizing the unconscious mind.

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    John B. Watson

    A key figure in behaviorism, emphasizing observable behavior.

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    Operant Conditioning

    A learning process where behavior is influenced by its consequences.

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    Skinner Box

    A laboratory device used to study operant conditioning in animals.

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    Humanistic Psychology

    Emphasizes personal growth, free will, and the unique potential of individuals.

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    Hierarchy of Needs

    Maslow's theory that basic needs must be met before higher-level needs can be addressed.

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    Self-Actualization

    The striving to reach one's full potential.

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    Client-centered therapy

    A humanistic therapy where the client takes the lead, and the therapist provides support and empathy.

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    Cognitive Psychology

    The study of mental processes. Using computer models to understand the mind.

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    Language Development (Chomsky)

    A theory suggesting language is an innate ability, not learned behavior.

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    Evolutionary Psychology

    Studies how evolution impacts behavior and mental processes.

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    Physiological Psychology

    Investigates the physical and biological influences on behavior and mental processes.

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    Causal Relationship

    A relationship between two variables where one variable directly influences the other. Changes in the independent variable (IV) cause changes in the dependent variable (DV).

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    Confound

    An extraneous variable that influences both the independent and dependent variables, making it difficult to isolate the true effect of the IV.

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    Replication

    Repeating an experiment to see if the same results are obtained. Replication increases confidence in the findings.

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    Correlation Coefficient

    A statistical measure that describes the strength and direction of the relationship between two variables. It ranges from -1 to +1.

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    Surveys

    A type of correlational research that uses questionnaires to collect data about people's attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.

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    Sociocultural Psychology Focus

    Studies how social and cultural factors influence behavior and mental processes.

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    Vygotsky's Social Influence

    Vygotsky's theory emphasized the impact of social interactions (parents, peers, culture) on cognitive development.

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    Neuroscience in Psychology

    Focuses on the biological underpinnings of behavior and mental processes.

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    Developmental Psychology

    Study of how behavior and mental processes change throughout the lifespan.

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    Experimental Psychology

    Uses scientific methods to investigate various processes like learning, motivation, emotions, consciousness, dreams and perceptions.

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    Applied Psychology

    Uses psychological knowledge and principles to solve practical problems, improve quality of life.

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    Pure Psychology

    Focus on gaining knowledge and understanding, usually practiced at colleges and universities.

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    Pseudoscience

    Statements or ideas presented as scientific but lacking rigorous scientific methodology.

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    Observational Research

    A research method where behaviors are observed and described in their natural setting without manipulating them. It aims to understand behavior in its natural context.

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    Naturalistic Observation

    Observing behavior in a natural setting without any intervention or manipulation.

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    Participant Observation

    A type of observation where the researcher becomes part of the group they are studying.

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    Case Study

    An in-depth study of a single individual or a rare phenomenon to understand a complex case.

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    Experimental Research

    A research method that aims to establish cause and effect relationships by manipulating an independent variable and measuring its impact on a dependent variable.

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    Independent Variable (IV)

    The variable that is manipulated or controlled by the researcher in an experiment.

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    Dependent Variable (DV)

    The variable that is measured in an experiment to see if it is affected by the independent variable.

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    Random Assignment

    Assigning participants to different groups randomly to ensure equal chances of being in any group, minimizing bias.

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    Study Notes

    Psychology as a Science

    • Psychology is a scientific discipline studying mental processes and behaviors.
    • It involves the meaning of "psyche" (mind) and "ology" (study of).
    • Psychology is distinct from psychiatry, which is a medical specialty.

    Overview of Topics

    • The field of psychology encompasses various topics, including the definition of psychology, historical perspectives on different schools of thought, areas of specialization, the difference between pure and applied science, stages in the research process, criteria for a good theory, ethical guidelines for human participants, methods like observational and experimental research, and statistical analysis.

    Schools of Psychology

    • Different schools of psychology emerged, each with its unique approach and perspectives.
    • These include structuralism (late 1800s), functionalism (late 1800s), psychoanalysis (1856-1939), behaviorism (1920s-1970s), humanistic psychology (1960s), Gestalt psychology (early 1900s), cognitive psychology (1950s-1960s), physiological psychology/neuroscience, evolutionary psychology, and sociocultural psychology (1990s).

    Structuralism (late 1800s)

    • Wilhelm Wundt, considered the father of modern psychology, established the first psychology research laboratory.
    • He used introspection to identify the basic elements of the conscious mind.
    • Edward Titchener, a student of Wundt, expanded upon structuralism, focusing on discovering the "laws" connecting the elements of the mind, and the relationship between physical events and experience.
    • Wundt and Titchener trained numerous doctoral students.

    Functionalism (late 1800s)

    • William James, considered the father of American psychology, was influenced by the theory of natural selection.
    • James studied the functions of mental processes like language, love, and conformity, emphasizing how these processes help organisms adapt to their environment.
    • Key students, such as Mary Calkins (first female APA president), Edward Thorndike (trial and error), and Robert Woodworth, further developed functionalist ideas, expanding on the study of animals and children.

    Psychoanalysis (1856-1939)

    • Sigmund Freud, a medical doctor, developed psychoanalysis, emphasizing the influence of unconscious mental processes on behavior.
    • Freud placed significant emphasis on sexual and aggressive urges and the impact of early experiences on personality formation.
    • Techniques like dream analysis, free association, and hypnosis were used to explore the unconscious mind.

    Behaviorism (1920s-1970s)

    • John B. Watson led the behaviorist movement in the US, focusing on observable behaviors.
    • Behaviorism emphasized the use of empirical evidence and knowledge, with a goal of predicting and controlling behavior.
    • Key figures like Ivan Pavlov, known for classical conditioning, and B.F. Skinner, who introduced operant conditioning, played significant roles, with the work of Skinner often emphasizing environmental control.
    • The "Little Albert" study was a landmark investigation.

    Humanistic Psychology (1960s)

    • A reaction to both behaviorism and psychoanalysis, humanistic psychology emphasized the uniqueness and free will of individuals.
    • Key figures include Abraham Maslow (Hierarchy of Needs), focusing on self-actualization and fulfilling human potential, and Carl Rogers (client-centered therapy), advocating for unconditional positive regard of individuals in therapeutic encounters.

    Gestalt Psychology (early 1900s)

    • Max Wertheimer, Kurt Koffka, and Wolfgang Köhler, established Gestalt psychology.
    • Criticizing structuralism, this school of thought emphasized the idea that the whole of perception is different than the sum of its parts. This highlighted the importance of context and pattern recognition on sensory experience.
    • Developed in Germany, it eventually became influential in the US.

    Cognitive Psychology (1950s-1960s)

    • Following behaviorism, psychologists began to study mental processes such as language, memory, and problem-solving, applying elements of the computer as a model.
    • Noam Chomsky made important contributions to this field.

    Physiological Psychology/Neuroscience

    • Psychology became interested in biological factors, exploring the relationship between behavior/mental processes and underlying physiological processes (ex. nervous system) and the contributions of the endocrine system and genetics.

    Evolutionary Psychology

    • The field looked at behavior and mental processes through the lens of evolutionary history and natural selection.
    • This approach examines how behaviors and mental processes have evolved, considering the adaptive functions of each.

    Sociocultural Psychology (1990s)

    • This perspective emphasized how social and cultural factors influence the development of behaviors/mental processes, with insight from contributors like Lev Vygotsky.

    Areas of Specialization

    • Psychology branches into diverse specializations including neuroscience, developmental psychology, experimental psychology, comparative psychology, cognitive psychology, personality psychology, social psychology, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, and educational/school psychology.

    Applied vs. Pure Science

    • Applied science aims to address practical problems and improve quality of life (ex., private practice, hospitals).
    • Pure science seeks to expand knowledge and understanding (ex., colleges, universities).

    Stages in the Research Process

    • Key stages in psychological research include selecting a topic, searching the literature, developing a theory and hypothesis(es), determining an appropriate research method, conducting the study, collecting and analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and sharing results.
    • Ethical considerations are crucial in all stages and include topics like ethical guidelines, informed consent, and debriefing of participants.

    Research Methods

    • Psychology uses various research methods to investigate behaviors/mental processes, including observational research (naturalistic, participant, case studies), experimental research, and correlational research.
    • Correlational research seeks to find and describe relationships between variables but cannot establish causality.

    Statistics

    • Descriptive statistics summarize collected data using measures like mean, median, mode, and range.
    • Inferential statistics allow for inferences about populations based on sample data; one example is determining if differences between groups represent genuine effects or are merely coincidental.

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    Description

    This quiz covers the fundamental principles of psychology as a scientific discipline, including its definition, historical perspectives, and various schools of thought. Explore areas of specialization, research processes, and ethical guidelines, all critical to understanding psychology's role in studying mental processes and behaviors.

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