Psychology Basics Quiz

What is Psychology?

• Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes, aiming to understand individuals and groups by studying the underlying psychological processes and mechanisms.
• It involves the study of conscious and unconscious phenomena, as well as feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.

Psychologists vs. Psychiatrists

• Psychologists have a doctoral degree in psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and are trained to evaluate and treat mental and emotional disorders through non-medical interventions (e.g., therapy, counseling).
• Psychiatrists are medical doctors (M.D. or D.O.) who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health and emotional disorders, often prescribing medication.

Ethical Considerations in Research

• Researchers must ensure the well-being and safety of participants, maintaining confidentiality and informed consent.
• Studies should avoid causing physical or emotional harm, and participants should be debriefed and compensated fairly.

Emotional Development

• According to common theories, emotions develop in infancy, around 6-8 months, with infants exhibiting emotional reactions to stimuli.
• As children develop, they learn to regulate and manage their emotions, with social and environmental factors influencing this process.

Plutchik's Theory of Emotions

• Robert Plutchik's Theory proposes that there are eight primary emotions (joy, trust, fear, surprise, anger, anticipation, disgust, and sadness), which can combine to form secondary emotions.
• This theory is known for its wheel of emotions, a circumplex model that illustrates how emotions are interconnected and can blend to form complex emotional experiences.