Psychology Chapter 1: Evolution

Chapter 1: Evolution of Psychology

• Psychology's roots trace back to ancient Greek philosophy, specifically the concept of "psyche" (soul/life) and "logo" (study).
• Aristotle's work "About the Soul" is a key historical contribution.
• From 1500 to 1700, psychology was a subfield of philosophy.
• The term "psychology" began to emerge as a distinct discipline.
• Descartes in the late 1700s explored the mind as separate from the body.
• The scientific method also emerged in physiology during this period.
• Psychology formally separated from philosophy and physiology in 1879.

Father of Psychology

• Wilhelm Wundt is considered the father of psychology.
• Wundt established the first psychology laboratory in 1879.
• For Wundt, research methodology involved introspection; careful observation of one's own inner experiences.
• Wundt also published the first psychology journal.

Historical Theories

• Structuralism: This school of thought aimed to break consciousness into basic units to understand it. Introspection was their primary method. Wundt and Titchener were key figures in this approach.
• Functionalism: This approach, influenced by Darwin, focused on studying the purpose of behavior and how it aids in survival. William James played a prominent role in functionalism.

American Psychological Association (APA)

• The APA was established in 1892.
• G. Stanley Hall was the first president.
• This organization has over 140,000 members and publishes numerous technical journals.

Mental Health Professionals

• Psychiatrists: Have an M.D. (medical doctor) degree. Treat psychological disorders and often focus on biological treatments involving medicine.
• Psychologists: Hold a Ph.D., Psy.D., or Ed.D. degree. Focus on various aspects of human behavior and often provide psychotherapy.

Psychology Today: 5 Theories

• Psychoanalytic: emphasizes the unconscious mind (e.g., Freud).
• Behaviorism: focuses on observable behavior and learning (e.g., Watson, Skinner).
• Humanistic: highlights self-actualization and unique human experiences (e.g., Maslow, Rogers).
• Cognitive: emphasizes mental processes like thinking (e.g., Beck, Ellis).
• Biological: explores the biological underpinnings of behavior (e.g., nervous system, brain chemistry).

Studying Psychology

• Effective studying involves scheduling, finding a distraction-free environment, and rewarding progress.
• The SQ3R method (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review) is effective for active reading.
• Active listening, recording key ideas in your own words, and asking questions are all part of active note-taking.

Taking Tests

• Don't be afraid to change answers on tests. Studies indicate this often leads to better results.
• Carefully reading the entire question wording is essential.
• Using information from one question might help solve another.
• Be wary of absolute statements like "always."