Psychology Chapter 1 Flashcards

Key Concepts in Psychology

• Psychology: The scientific study of behavior and mental processes, encompassing both observable actions and internal activities.
• Behavior: Refers to observable actions of individuals and animals, providing a basis for psychological assessment.
• Dualism: The philosophical belief that divides existence into two distinct entities: body and spirit.

Influential Figures and Theories

• René Descartes: Proposed the interaction between mind and body, suggesting the pineal gland as the interaction point.
• John Locke: Initiated empiricism, emphasizing truth gained through observeable experiences.
• Thomas Hobbes: Introduced materialism, asserting that only matter and energy exist.
• Charles Darwin: Founded evolutionary theory, impacting understanding of psychological development.

Foundations of Psychological Science

• Wilhelm Wundt: Credited as the founder of psychology as a formal discipline, establishing the first psychological laboratory.
• Edward Titchener: Originated structuralism, focusing on the structure and components of the mind.
• Functionalism: Emphasizes the purpose of mental processes in adaptation to the environment.

Branches of Psychology

• Biological Psychology: Explores relationships between biological processes and behaviors.
• Behavioral Psychology: Focuses on observable behavior, steering away from internal mental states.
• Cognitive Psychology: Investigates higher mental processes, understanding behavior through cognitive functions.
• Humanistic Psychology: Highlights consciousness and free will, investigating the human experience.
• Sociocultural Psychology: Examines the influence of cultural values on behavior and mental processes.
• Evolutionary Psychology: Analyzes how evolution and genetics influence behavior.
• Behavioral Genetics: Studies genetic influences on behavior, linking biology and psychology.
• Clinical Neuropsychology: Merges neuroscience with clinical psychology, focusing on biological origins of disorders.

Learning Theories

• Classical Conditioning: A learning process where an organism learns to associate a neutral stimulus with a significant one (Ivan Pavlov was pivotal in this development).
• Operant Conditioning: A behavior modification approach where behavior is shaped by environmental outcomes (initiated by B.F. Skinner).

Psychological Applications

• Behavior Modification: Techniques aimed at altering behavior based on learned habits.
• Developmental Psychology: Studies behavioral changes throughout life, from conception to old age.
• Health Psychology: Investigates the interaction between psychological factors and physical health.
• Clinical Psychology: Focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders.
• Social Psychology: Explores how individuals are influenced by social interactions.

Concepts in Specialized Psychology

• Cross-Cultural Psychology: Highlights differences and similarities in psychological functioning across various cultures.
• Phrenology: Early theory suggesting that different areas of the brain correspond to specific mental functions, leading to the idea of localization.

Educational Pathways

• Master's Degree: Important for certain professional paths in psychology; specific regulations may limit autonomy in prescribing medication.
• Psychiatrist: A medical doctor specializing in mental health, capable of diagnosing and treating psychological disorders.

Notable Theorists

• Abraham Maslow: Known for his theory of self-actualization, outlining the desire for individuals to achieve their fullest potential.
• Sigmund Freud: Innovated psychoanalytic theory, emphasizing the distinction between conscious and unconscious processes.

Test your knowledge of key terms and definitions from Psychology Chapter 1. This quiz covers fundamental concepts such as psychology itself, behavior, dualism, and influential figures like René Descartes. Perfect for students to reinforce their understanding of introductory psychology.