Psychology Overview and Research Methods
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Questions and Answers

Which type of memory is characterized by personal experiences tied to specific times and places?

  • Semantic memory
  • Chunking memory
  • Procedural memory
  • Episodic memory (correct)
  • What is the primary difference between maintenance rehearsal and elaborative rehearsal?

  • Maintenance rehearsal involves making information personally meaningful.
  • Elaborative rehearsal focuses on repeating information without additional meaning.
  • Maintenance rehearsal is more effective than elaborative rehearsal.
  • Maintenance rehearsal involves repeating information consistently. (correct)
  • Which amnesia condition involves difficulty in forming new memories while retaining previous ones?

  • Blocking
  • Suggestibility
  • Retrograde amnesia
  • Anterograde amnesia (correct)
  • What does the method of loci technique primarily utilize to enhance memory?

    <p>Imaginary physical locations (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does context-dependent memory function in the recall of information?

    <p>It enhances recall when the learning and retrieval contexts match. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the corpus callosum?

    <p>Connects the left and right hemispheres for communication (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which lobe of the brain is primarily responsible for processing touch sensations?

    <p>Parietal lobe (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does the hippocampus play in the brain?

    <p>Formation of new memories (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In sensation and perception, what does transduction refer to?

    <p>Conversion of stimuli into neural signals (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes bottom-up processing from top-down processing?

    <p>Top-down processing relies on individual expectations; bottom-up relies on stimulus properties (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the phenomenon called when our sensory systems become less sensitive to constant input?

    <p>Sensory adaptation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of conditioning involves a neutral stimulus becoming associated with an unconditioned stimulus?

    <p>Classical conditioning (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'difference threshold' refer to?

    <p>Smallest difference between two sensory inputs that can be detected (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a component of classical conditioning?

    <p>Primary reinforcement (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In operant conditioning, what is the function of positive reinforcement?

    <p>To increase the probability of a behavior being repeated (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an example of a primary reinforcer?

    <p>Food and water (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which term describes the process where a conditioned response is weakened when the conditioned stimulus no longer predicts the unconditioned stimulus?

    <p>Extinction (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does stimulus generalization refer to in classical conditioning?

    <p>Difficulty in distinguishing between two similar stimuli (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The maximum number of items that can be held in short-term memory is closest to what number?

    <p>7 items (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of learning occurs through observing the behavior of others?

    <p>Observational learning (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the main focus of behaviorism?

    <p>Acquisition of behavior through conditioning. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does an operational definition provide in research?

    <p>A precise measurement of how a variable is quantified. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In an experimental study, which group is given a special treatment?

    <p>Experimental group. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes a negative correlation?

    <p>One variable increases while the other decreases. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the action potential in a neuron refer to?

    <p>The transmission of information down the axon. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does the central nervous system (CNS) play in the nervous system?

    <p>Processes and directs behaviors based on incoming information. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component of the nervous system prepares the body for action?

    <p>Sympathetic nervous system. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common characteristic of case studies in psychological research?

    <p>They involve intensive examination of one or a few individuals. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is meant by random sampling in research studies?

    <p>Selecting participants from the population in a random manner. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main purpose of conducting a correlational study?

    <p>To examine the relationships between two or more variables without manipulation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main focus of psychodynamic therapy?

    <p>To address unconscious needs and motives (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which therapy method involves exposure to anxiety-inducing situations while learning relaxation techniques?

    <p>Systematic desensitization (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one characteristic symptom of panic disorder?

    <p>Sudden attacks of terror (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does learned helplessness manifest in individuals?

    <p>By feeling unable to affect life's events (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which model explains the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors in psychological disorders?

    <p>Biopsychosocial model (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a hallmark of obsessive-compulsive disorder?

    <p>Recurrent intrusive thoughts (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key feature of major depressive episodes?

    <p>Persistent feelings of sadness (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of symptoms in schizophrenia represents deficits in functioning?

    <p>Negative symptoms (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which therapy focuses on helping individuals understand their personal goals?

    <p>Humanistic therapy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines specific phobias?

    <p>Fear that is exaggerated compared to the actual threat (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes borderline personality disorder?

    <p>Lack of a strong sense of self and impulsivity (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common symptom of antisocial personality disorder?

    <p>Charm combined with deceit and irresponsibility (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is true about autism spectrum disorder?

    <p>Communication impairments and repetitive behaviors are common (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the fundamental attribution error refer to?

    <p>Underestimating the impact of personality on behavior (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which form of social influence involves following direct orders from authority figures?

    <p>Obedience (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is cognitive dissonance?

    <p>Contradiction between two attitudes or between an attitude and behavior (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the self-fulfilling prophecy?

    <p>A belief influencing actions to make that belief come true (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one major change associated with the preoperational stage in Piaget's theory of cognitive development?

    <p>Ability to think symbolically and fictionally (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following attachment styles is characterized by an infant's distress when a caregiver leaves?

    <p>Ambivalent attachment (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines Erikson's psychosocial stage of 'identity vs. role confusion'?

    <p>Exploring personal identity during adolescence (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of Freud's psychodynamic theory of personality?

    <p>Unconscious wishes that create inner conflict (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is meant by the concept of 'locus of control'?

    <p>Believing that external factors dictate life events (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In personality psychology, what do projective tests aim to assess?

    <p>Ambiguous responses to unclear stimuli (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Operational Definition

    A precise description of how a variable will be measured in a study.

    Hypothesis

    A testable statement about the expected relationship between variables.

    Independent Variable

    The variable manipulated by the researcher, assumed to affect the outcome.

    Dependent Variable

    The variable measured to assess the effect of the independent variable.

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    Experimental Group

    The group in an experiment that receives the special treatment or manipulation.

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    Control Group

    The group in an experiment that does not receive the special treatment.

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    Neuron

    A specialized cell transmitting nerve impulses; basic unit of the nervous system.

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    Action Potential

    A rapid change in electrical potential across a neuron's membrane.

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    Positive Correlation

    A relationship where variables change in the same direction (both up or both down).

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    Correlation Study

    Study that examines relationships between two or more variables without manipulation.

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    Neuroplasticity

    The brain's ability to change and adapt due to experience.

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    Corpus Callosum

    Connects the left and right brain hemispheres for communication.

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    Sensation

    The detection of physical stimuli by sense organs.

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    Transduction

    Converting stimulus input into neural signals.

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    Absolute Threshold

    The minimum stimulus needed for detection.

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    Chunking

    Organizing information into meaningful units to improve memory.

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    Semantic Memory

    General knowledge about facts, concepts, and language, independent of personal experiences.

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    Episodic Memory

    Memories of personal experiences, including time and place.

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    Procedural Memory

    Knowledge of how to perform skills and habits, like riding a bike or playing the piano.

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    Method of Loci

    A memory technique using imagined physical locations to aid in recall.

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    Sensory Adaptation

    The tendency for our sensory systems to become less sensitive to a constant level of input. For example, you may initially notice a strong smell, but it fades over time.

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    Difference Threshold

    The smallest difference that you can notice between two pieces of sensory input. How much louder does something have to be for you to notice the change in volume?

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    Kinesthetic Sense

    A sense of body position and movement. It tells you where your limbs are relative to each other.

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    Vestibular Sense

    The internal sensory system that helps you maintain balance and perform activities. It's how you know if you're upright or tilted.

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    Monocular Depth Cue

    A depth cue that can be perceived with only one eye. These provide information about depth and distance using only one eye.

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    Binocular Depth Cue

    A depth cue that requires both eyes to be perceived. These provide information about depth and distance using both eyes.

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    Operant Conditioning

    A type of learning where actions are learned through their consequences - reinforcement or punishment. Actions with positive consequences are more likely to be repeated.

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    Classical Conditioning

    Learning by association. A neutral stimulus is paired with a stimulus that naturally produces a response, and eventually the neutral stimulus alone triggers the response.

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    Stimulus Generalization

    When a stimulus similar, but not identical, to the conditioned stimulus also triggers the conditioned response.

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    Stimulus Discrimination

    The ability to distinguish between two similar stimuli, one of which is associated with a particular consequence. You can tell the difference even if they look similar.

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    Unconscious Conflicts

    The root cause of psychological disorders in psychoanalysis, arising from repressed traumatic experiences that create internal struggles.

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    Psychodynamic Therapy

    A therapeutic approach focused on exploring and resolving unconscious conflicts, motivations, and defense mechanisms.

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    Humanistic Therapy

    A therapeutic approach that emphasizes self-discovery, personal growth, and achieving one's full potential.

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    Roger's Client-Centered Therapy

    A specific humanistic approach that focuses on creating a safe and accepting environment for clients to explore themselves and achieve self-understanding.

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    Systematic Desensitization

    A behavioral therapy technique that gradually exposes clients to anxiety-provoking situations while teaching them relaxation techniques.

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    Exposure and Response Prevention

    A behavioral therapy technique used for OCD, where clients are exposed to their fears and actively prevented from performing their usual compulsions.

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    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    A therapeutic approach that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors to improve mental health.

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    DSM-5

    The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, used for classifying and diagnosing psychological disorders based on specific criteria.

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    Diathesis-Stress Model

    A model explaining the development of psychological disorders, suggesting that both a predisposition (diathesis) and environmental stressors are necessary.

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    Delusion

    A false belief that is not based in reality, even when evidence contradicts it.

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    Borderline Personality Disorder

    A mental health condition characterized by instability in mood, identity, and impulsive behaviors, often with underlying trauma.

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    Antisocial Personality Disorder

    A personality disorder marked by disregard for social norms, deceitfulness, impulsivity, and lack of remorse.

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    Autism Spectrum Disorder

    A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors or interests.

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    Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

    A neurodevelopmental disorder marked by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, causing significant impairment in daily function.

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    Fundamental Attribution Error

    The tendency to overestimate dispositional factors (personality) and underestimate situational factors (environment) when explaining others' behavior.

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    Personal Attribution

    Explaining a behavior or event as a result of internal factors like traits, abilities, or feelings.

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    Situational Attribution

    Explaining a behavior or event as a result of external factors related to the situation.

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    Conformity

    Altering one's behavior or opinions to match those of others or to what is expected.

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    Compliance

    Agreeing to a request or demand, often from a friend or authority figure.

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    Obedience

    Following orders or instructions given by an authority figure.

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    Bystander Intervention Effect

    The likelihood of helping someone in need decreases when there are more bystanders present.

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    Stereotype

    A generalized belief about a person, event, or object, often negative and based on limited information.

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    Prejudice

    Negative feelings, opinions, and beliefs associated with a stereotype about a particular group.

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    Discrimination

    Unfair treatment based on group membership, often influenced by prejudice and stereotypes.

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    Self-fulfilling Prophecy

    A belief that influences actions in a way that makes the belief come true.

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    Teratogens

    Substances that can harm prenatal development, causing birth defects or other health problems.

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    Attachment

    An enduring emotional connection between a child and caregiver, providing security and support.

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    Study Notes

    Psychology Summary

    • Psychology is the scientific study of mental processes and behavior.
    • Mental processes and behavior are influenced by brain activity.
    • Psychoanalytic theory focuses on unconscious mental processes and childhood experiences.
    • Behaviorism suggests behaviors are learned through conditioning and environmental interactions.
    • Gestalt psychology emphasizes understanding objects and scenes in their simplest forms.
    • Humanistic psychology emphasizes that humans are unique and should be treated as such.
    • Cognitive psychology explores how the mind processes information.
    • Critical thinking includes checking sources, evaluating evidence, and considering various perspectives.
    • Operational definitions precisely describe how variables will be measured.
    • Hypotheses are statements about expected associations between variables.

    Research Methods

    • Independent variables are manipulated factors thought to cause behavior change.
    • Dependent variables are behaviors that are measured.
    • Experimental groups receive special treatment.
    • Control groups do not receive special treatment.
    • Random assignment assigns participants to groups randomly.
    • Random sampling selects participants from the population.
    • A population is the entire group to study. A sample is a subset of the population.
    • Correlation studies assess relationships between variables without manipulation.
    • Experiments manipulate variables to determine cause-and-effect relationships.
    • Surveys gather data through questions.
    • Observational studies systematically observe and code behavior .
    • Case studies intensely examine individuals or small groups.

    Neuroscience and Biological Foundations

    • Neurons are the basic units of the nervous system.
    • Dendrites receive information from other neurons.
    • The soma (cell body) produces proteins.
    • Axons transmit information between neurons.
    • Myelin sheaths enable faster signal transmission.
    • Terminal buds send signals to subsequent neurons.
    • Synapses are junctions between neurons.
    • Action potentials are neural impulses.
    • The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord.
    • The peripheral nervous system (PNS) consists of nerve cells outside the CNS.
    • Somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements.
    • Autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary functions. Sympathetic "prepares" parasympathetic "restores".
    • Endocrine system uses hormones to regulate emotions and behavior.
    • Hormones affect bodily processes and affect mental functions.
    • Examples of brain regions and their functions are mentioned.

    Sensation & Perception

    • Transduction converts sensory stimuli into neural signals.
    • Bottom-up processing analyzes sensory input.
    • Top-down processing uses prior knowledge and expectations.
    • Absolute threshold is the minimum stimulus detectable.
    • Sensory adaptation reduces sensitivity to constant stimulation.
    • Difference threshold is the smallest noticeable change in stimulus.
    • Kinesthetic sense deals with body position and movement.
    • Vestibular sense maintains balance.
    • Various types of sensory receptors and their function are described.
    • Various parts of the brain involved in processing these senses are noted. Perception is the processing, organization, and interpretation of sensory information.

    Learning

    • Operant conditioning involves learning through reinforcement and punishment.

    • Classical conditioning involves learning through associations.

    • Unconditioned stimuli and responses are innate.

    • Conditioned stimuli and responses are acquired through learning.

    • Shaping uses gradual reinforcement to alter behaviors.

    • Positive reinforcement increases behavior by adding a reward.

    • Negative reinforcement increases behavior by removing an unpleasant condition.

    • Positive punishment decreases behavior by adding an unpleasant condition.

    • Negative punishment decreases behavior by removing a desirable condition.

    • Stimulus generalization and discrimination are explained.

    • Extinction occurs when the conditioned stimulus no longer predicts the unconditioned stimulus.

    • Spontaneous recovery involves the reappearance of a response after it appears extinct.

    • Observational learning involves learning by watching others.

    Memory

    • Sensory memory briefly holds sensory information.
    • Short-term memory temporarily stores and processes information.
    • Long-term memory stores information permanently.
    • Chunking and rehearsal improve memorization and storage.
    • Maintenance and Elaborative Rehearsal are different types of rehearsal in memorization.
    • Method of loci is a memory technique that uses visualizations of locations.
    • Different memory types: Semantic (facts), Episodic (experiences), and Procedural (skills).

    Memory and Forgetting

    • Common memory issues like blocking, misattribution, and suggestibility are introduced
    • Anterograde and retrograde amnesia are forms of memory loss.

    Psychological Disorders

    • DSM-5 is a system for classifying psychological disorders.
    • Diathesis-stress models explain psychological disorders.
    • Different types of psychological disorders, like Anxiety disorders (Generalized anxiety disorder, Panic disorder, Specific phobias), Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Major depressive disorder (episodes), Bipolar disorder (episodes) and Schizophrenia are introduced.
    • Psychological disorders are also associated with their symptoms, causes and treatments.

    Personality

    • Psychoanalytic, biological, social-cognitive, and humanistic approaches to personality are described.
    • Trait theory describes personality in terms of specific traits.
    • Self-report and projective personality tests are introduced (ex. Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory, Ink Blot Test).

    Therapy

    • Biological therapy addresses physical processes affecting mental states.
    • Psychotherapy addresses thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
    • Psychoanalysis focuses on unconscious conflicts.
    • Several therapies like Humanistic and Psychodynamic are detailed.
    • Various therapy approaches (e.g. Systematic desensitization, Exposure and Response Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Group therapy) for certain disorders and their benefits are introduced.

    Social Psychology

    • Fundamental attribution error explains overemphasis on personality for others' behaviors.
    • Compliance, obedience, conformity, and bystander intervention effects are described.
    • Social psychology concepts including Stereotypes, Prejudice, and Discrimination are noted.

    Lifespan Development

    • Life span development covers physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional domains.
    • Different stages of cognitive development, attachment theory, and prenatal development are discussed.

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    Description

    This quiz covers essential concepts in psychology, including mental processes, behavior theories, and research methodologies. It delves into various psychological perspectives, such as psychoanalysis, behaviorism, and cognitive psychology. Test your knowledge about key terms and hypotheses essential for understanding psychological studies.

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