Psychology Chapter 1 Flashcards

Psychology Overview

• Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes, encompassing overt actions and covert internal activities like thinking and feeling.

Research Methodology

• Description involves thorough observation and noting of behavior.
• The scientific method is crucial for reducing bias and error in data collection.
• A hypothesis is a tentative explanation based on observations and is testable.

Key Perspectives in Psychology

• Structuralism: Focuses on the structure of the mind; associated with Wilhelm Wundt and Edward Titchener.
• Functionalism: Associated with William James; studies how the mind adapts to different environments.
• Gestalt Psychology: Concentrates on perception and sensation, especially the perception of patterns and whole figures.
• Psychoanalysis: Based on Freud's theories, centering on unconscious motivations and the role of childhood experiences.
• Behaviorism: Examines observable behavior only, disregarding mental processes.
• Psychodynamic Perspective: Modern psychoanalysis focusing on self-development and motivation beyond sexual factors.
• Cognitive Perspective: Investigates mental processes including memory, problem-solving, and learning.
• Cognitive Neuroscience: Studies the brain's physical changes related to mental activity.
• Sociocultural Perspective: Explores how social behavior is influenced by cultural contexts.
• Biopsychological Perspective: Attributes behavior to biological factors like genetics and neurological activity.
• Evolutionary Perspective: Focuses on biological bases for universal mental characteristics among humans.

Professional Roles in Psychology

• Psychiatrist: Medical doctors specializing in diagnosing and treating psychological disorders.
• Psychoanalyst: Psychiatrists or psychologists trained in Freud's methods.
• Psychiatric Social Worker: Social workers with therapeutic training addressing environmental influences on mental disorders.
• Psychologist: Professionals with academic degrees specializing in various fields of psychology.

Research Concepts

• Correlation measures the relationship between two variables.
• The observer effect refers to changes in behavior when individuals know they are being observed.
• Participant observation involves the observer becoming part of the group being studied.
• Observer bias can skew results as it reflects the observer's expectations.
• Case studies allow for in-depth analysis of a single individual.
• A representative sample ensures random selection from a larger population for reliability in research.
• Replication validates research findings by repeating studies to achieve similar results.

Important Terminology

• Control involves modifying behaviors in research.
• Objective introspection entails self-examination of thoughts and mental activities.
• Descriptive research focuses on detailing observed behaviors without manipulation.

Test your understanding of core concepts in Psychology with these flashcards covering Chapter 1. Each card focuses on key terms and definitions that are fundamental to the study of behavior and mental processes. Perfect for quick reviews and studying.