Questions and Answers
What is the definition of psychology?
What systematic methods does psychology use?
To observe human behavior and draw conclusions.
What encompasses behavior?
Everything we do that can be directly observed.
What are mental processes?
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What is critical thinking?
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What is the empirical method?
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What does structuralism focus on?
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What is functionalism concerned with?
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What theory is Charles Darwin known for?
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There are many controversies in the field of psychology.
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What characteristic is not at the heart of the scientific approach?
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Why is Charles Darwin's work relevant to psychology?
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In a study of emotional expressions, Clayton is most like which psychologist?
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What is the biological approach in psychology?
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What does neuroscience study?
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What does the behavioral approach emphasize?
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Who is associated with the psychodynamic approach?
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Study Notes
Psychology Overview
- Psychology is the scientific discipline focused on the study of behavior and mental processes.
- It combines elements of science, behavior observation, and exploration of mental activities.
Scientific Approach in Psychology
- Psychological science relies on systematic observation and assessment of human behavior to describe, predict, and explain actions.
- Goals include understanding and altering behavior through evidence-based interventions to improve societal outcomes.
Behavior and Mental Processes
- Behavior encompasses all observable actions, such as someone kissing or a baby crying.
- Mental processes are defined as internal experiences like thoughts and feelings, which are not directly observable but impactful on behavior.
Critical Thinking in Psychology
- Critical thinking involves deep analysis, questioning input, and assessing evidence rigorously.
- This mindset is crucial for avoiding biases and ensuring scientific rigor in psychological research.
Empirical Method
- The empirical method prioritizes knowledge acquisition through observation, data collection, and logical reasoning.
- Emphasizes objectivity and basing conclusions on evidence rather than preconceived notions.
Historical Foundations of Psychology
- Structuralism: Introduced by William Wundt, it focused on breaking down mental processes into their basic components.
- Functionalism: Developed by William James, it investigates the functions and adaptive purposes of mental processes and behaviors.
Influence of Darwin on Psychology
- Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection underlines that behaviors evolved based on their survival advantages, influencing psychological research.
Foundational Figures in Psychology
- Wilhelm Wundt and William James are acknowledged as the foundational figures in establishing psychology as a scientific discipline.
- Wundt is associated with structuralism (what happens in the mind), while James with functionalism (why mental processes occur).
Psychological Approaches
- Biological Approach: Examines psychological phenomena through the lens of the brain and nervous system.
- Neuroscience: Focuses on the biology underlying psychological processes and behaviors.
- Behavioral Approach: Concentrates on observable behavior and the environmental factors shaping it, often associated with behaviorists.
- Psychodynamic Approach: Founded by Sigmund Freud, highlighting the influence of early relationships and unconscious processes on behavior.
Psychology's Nature and Scope
- Psychology is recognized for its interdisciplinary nature, bridging philosophy and physiology.
- Continues to evolve with ongoing debates and controversies within the field, reflecting its dynamic nature.
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Test your knowledge with these flashcards on Chapter 1 of Psychology, where you can learn about the science of psychology, including its definition and goals. Ideal for students looking to reinforce their understanding of key concepts.
