Psychology Phenomena and Theories

Study Notes

Phenomena and Theories

Phenomena is a reliably observed and replicated finding in systematic empirical research.
Examples include the McGurk Effect and Placebo Effect.
Theories are explanations or interpretations of phenomena using unobserved variables, structures, processes, functions, and principles.
Example: Zajonc's Drive Theory explains how arousal affects performance on tasks.
Perspectives are broader approaches than theories, such as explaining depression from a biological perspective.
Models provide precise explanations using components like equations and biological structures.
Example: Baddeley & Hitch Model of Working Memory.

Purpose of a Theory

Organization: Theories provide structure and clarity for interpreting phenomena, with Occam's razor emphasizing parsimony.
Predictions: Theories generate hypotheses, which are predictions about new phenomena.
Example: Linnaeus's classification led to Darwin's natural selection, Mendel's mutations, and Watson & Crick's DNA discovery.
New Research: Theories are tested and refined through research, leading to either support, revision, or refutation.
Example: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) constantly evolves through research.

Using Multiple Theories

Human behavior is complex, requiring multiple theories to explain fully.
Example: Parent-child attachment requires considering psychodynamic, evolutionary, and behavioral theories.
No single theory can explain everything.

Dimensions in which Theories Vary

Formality: Refers to the level of detail in theory components.
Formal Theories: Precise variables and equations, prevalent in fields like mathematics and physics.
Example: Kahneman & Tversky's theory in behavioral economics is one of psychology's few formal theories.
Informal Theories: Simpler descriptions of relationships and concepts.
Scope: Represents the range of phenomena a theory can explain.
Broad Theories: Can explain a wide range of behaviors and phenomena.
Example: Psychodynamic Theory.
Narrow Theories: Explain a limited range of closely related concepts.
Example: Intersensory-Redundancy Theory.
Theoretical Approach: The types of concepts a theory aims to explain.
Functional Theories: Explain the purpose or function of a phenomenon.
Example: Theory of Evolution explains survival and reproduction.
Mechanistic Theories: Explain processes and interactions of variables.
Example: A theory of depression explaining serotonin interactions.
Stage Theories: Explain phenomena by tracing its progression through stages.
Example: Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.
Typology Theories: Organize phenomena into distinct categories.
Example: Ectomorph, mesomorph, endomorph theories; Intelligence theories; Personality theories.

Description

Explore the key concepts of phenomena and theories in psychology. This quiz covers important examples like the McGurk Effect and Zajonc's Drive Theory, as well as the role of perspectives and models in understanding human behavior. Test your knowledge of how theories organize knowledge and generate predictions.