PS101 - Chapter #1
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Questions and Answers

What does the term 'introspection' refer to in psychology?

  • Observing the interactions between different sensory modalities
  • Examining one's own conscious thoughts and feelings (correct)
  • Studying external factors influencing decision-making
  • Analyzing behaviors in social settings

What is the primary emphasis of structuralism in psychology?

  • Studying how behaviors change based on environmental stimuli
  • Breaking down complex thoughts into sensory experiences (correct)
  • Observing how individuals interact within a social context
  • The purpose of mental processes in adapting to the environment

How does functionalism differ from structuralism in its perspective on the mind?

  • Functionalism emphasizes adaptable mental processes rather than their basic elements (correct)
  • Functionalism reduces mental processes to mere reflex actions
  • Structuralism examines the functions of mental processes in daily tasks
  • Functionalism considers sensory experiences as secondary to behavior

What is the main focus of Gestalt psychology?

<p>Understanding how individuals perceive stimuli as unified wholes (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who founded the school of structuralism in the United States?

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

What does psychology primarily study?

<p>Mental processes and behavior, including influences from the environment (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary goals of psychologists when studying behavior?

<p>To predict circumstances under which behaviors are likely to occur (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to understand myths related to psychology?

<p>They can be harmful and impede critical thinking in other areas (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are mental processes primarily concerned with?

<p>The activities of the brain engaged in thinking and processing information (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about behavioral processes is accurate?

<p>Behavioral processes are observable actions often in response to environmental cues (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of control in psychology refer to?

<p>The ability to change or limit specific thoughts or behaviors (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is culture defined as in the context of psychology?

<p>A set of shared beliefs and practices transmitted across generations (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of psychology seeks to answer the question 'Why?' regarding behaviors?

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

What did Wundt believe was necessary for studying mind and behavior?

<p>Experimental methods similar to those in chemistry and physics (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What concept did Wundt develop to distinguish between automatic and controlled actions?

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

What weakness did introspection face as a method of study?

<p>Inability to resolve disagreements among observers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which early psychologist founded one of the first American experimental psychology laboratories?

<p>G. Stanley Hall (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary focus of functionalism according to William James?

<p>The functions of mental processes in adapting to environments (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which psychological approach was Edward Titchener associated with?

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

What did Max Wertheimer and other Gestalt psychologists argue about consciousness?

<p>It involves inborn tendencies to organize perception into wholes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a key criticism of structuralism during its period?

<p>It lacked a unified approach for resolving subjective differences (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of voluntarism as proposed by Wundt?

<p>The will is a central agency driving behavior and attention (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What approach did William James advocate for in psychology?

<p>Understanding the purpose and function of mental processes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher's ideas significantly influenced William James' approach to psychology?

<p>Charles Darwin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about Gestalt psychology is true?

<p>It argues that perception is inherently organized and patterned (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What kind of methods did functionalists adopt to study behavior?

<p>Various empirical methods including animal studies (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary objective of the schools that aimed to erase Indigenous cultures?

<p>To assimilate children and eliminate cultural identities (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are legacy recommendations seen as crucial for healing in the context of historical trauma?

<p>They address historical damage to pave the way for reconciliation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At what level of analysis is brain activity studied with respect to FoMO?

<p>Biological level (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which trait is suggested to increase vulnerability to FoMO?

<p>Low self-esteem (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between behavior and mental processes?

<p>Behavior is external responses, while mental processes involve internal thoughts (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the group level of analysis focus on in psychology?

<p>The influence of others on individuals' choices and emotions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which goal of psychology aims to understand the impact of social media use?

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

What did Hippocrates correctly identify regarding mental faculties?

<p>The brain is the organ of mental life (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher is known for promoting empirical investigations of the natural world?

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

What is the term used for the innate human need to understand the world through structured practices?

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

What is the purpose of the control goal in psychology concerning social media?

<p>To control and manage social media behaviors based on understanding (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to ancient philosophers, which concept was explored regarding the relationship between mind and body?

<p>Mental and physical health are interrelated (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does FoMO stand for in psychological studies?

<p>Fear of Missing Out (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did Plato believe was necessary for a healthy mind?

<p>Balance among intellect, emotion, and desires (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the significant contribution of Hermann von Helmholtz to psychology?

<p>He measured the speed of a nerve impulse. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher believed that the mind at birth is a blank slate?

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

What pivotal development occurred in 1879 related to psychology?

<p>The opening of the first psych laboratory by Wundt (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What method did Wilhelm Wundt use in his experiments?

<p>Empirically driven experiments with standardized situations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was a key focus of psychophysics?

<p>Studying the detection of physical stimuli and their psychological effects (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is credited with proposing the concept of natural selection?

<p>Charles Darwin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these historical figures is known for laying out the methods of experimental psychology in his book Elements of Psychophysics?

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

What was a major shift in worldview during the Renaissance as related to psychology?

<p>The transition from spiritual to mathematical frameworks (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of psychology did early Greek philosophers like Hippocrates focus on?

<p>Understanding mental states through reasoning and idealism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher is considered the first modern philosopher and addressed the nature of existence?

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

What was a central thesis of Francis Bacon’s work?

<p>Empiricism as the foundation for knowledge (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the role of mysticism in science change by the 1600s?

<p>The role of magic and mysticism largely disappeared. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did Wundt’s findings about attention capacity suggest?

<p>Shifting focus takes approximately 1/10 of a second. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is Psychology?

The scientific study of mental processes and behavior, including how the mind and behavior are influenced by the organism's biology and the environment.

Mental Processes

Activities of the brain involved in thinking, processing information, and using language.

Behavioral Processes

Observable actions of an individual or animal, often in response to environmental cues.

Description in Psychology

A detailed and specific description of phenomena, such as how babies learn to talk or the impact of early experiences on individuals.

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Explanation in Psychology

Explaining why things happen, involving developing hypotheses and theories to understand various events.

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Prediction in Psychology

Predicting when and where certain behaviors or mental processes are likely to occur based on research and analysis.

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Control in Psychology

Controlling or influencing behaviors or mental processes, whether our own or those of others, using psychological principles.

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Culture

A set of shared beliefs and practices that are passed down through generations, influencing our thoughts and actions.

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Residential Schools

The forced assimilation of Indigenous children into Canadian society, aimed at erasing their cultures and identities.

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Legacy Recommendations of TRC

Recommendations aimed at acknowledging and addressing the historical harms of residential schools, such as truth-telling and commemoration.

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Reconciliation Recommendations of TRC

Recommendations focused on building a more just and equitable future for Indigenous peoples, such as closing the gaps in health and education.

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Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

A feeling of anxiety or insecurity stemming from the perception that others are having more positive experiences or opportunities.

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Brain Level of Analysis

A level of analysis in psychology that focuses on the biological and chemical processes in the brain related to behavior and mental processes.

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Individual Person Level of Analysis

A level of analysis in psychology that examines individual differences in personality, experiences, and behaviors.

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Group Level of Analysis

A level of analysis in psychology that explores how social factors, like culture and social comparison, influence behavior and mental processes.

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Behavior

The observable actions and expressions of an individual, often influenced by environmental cues.

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Empirical Investigation

The use of careful observation and evidence to understand and explain phenomena, a cornerstone of scientific inquiry in psychology.

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Humourism

A theory that posited the existence of four bodily fluids (humors) that influenced personality and health.

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Philosophy

A branch of philosophy that explores fundamental questions about knowledge, reality, and the meaning of life.

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Myths

Ancient stories that sought to explain the mysteries of life and nature, often reflecting human beliefs and cultural values.

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Rituals

Ceremonies or rituals practiced as expressions of beliefs, values, and social cohesion, often rooted in myths and traditions.

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Mind-Body Connection

The integration of mental and physical aspects of well-being, a concept recognized by early Greek philosophers and physicians.

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Empiricism

A philosophical perspective that emphasizes the role of experience in shaping knowledge, believing that all knowledge originates from our senses.

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Renaissance

The 16th and 17th centuries in Europe, witnessing a surge in scientific advancements and a shift from a primarily religious worldview to one grounded in reason and observation.

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Psychophysics

The study of the relationship between physical stimuli and their psychological effects. It explores how our senses perceive and interpret the world around us.

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Rene Descartes

A French philosopher who proposed that the mind and body are distinct entities. Known for his famous phrase 'Cogito, ergo sum' (I think, therefore I am).

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Mind-Body Dualism

The belief that the mind is separate from the body, existing as a distinct entity. A core concept in philosophical discussions about consciousness and free will.

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Physiological Psychology

A field of psychology that focuses on the biological basis of behavior and mental processes, exploring how the brain, nervous system, and other bodily systems influence our thoughts, feelings, and actions.

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Scientific Method

A method of understanding knowledge by using experience and observations as the primary source of information.

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Natural Selection

The process by which organisms best suited to their environment survive and reproduce more successfully, passing on favorable traits to future generations. A central concept in Darwin's theory of evolution.

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Gustav Fechner

A German philosopher and physicist considered to be one of the founders of experimental psychology. He focused on quantifying the relationship between physical stimuli and their psychological effects.

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Wilhelm Wundt

A German psychologist who founded the first experimental psychology laboratory in 1879. He is considered the 'father of experimental psychology' and emphasized the importance of using scientific methods to study the mind.

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Voluntarism

A theory of psychological processes that emphasizes the role of voluntary action in shaping our experiences and behavior. Wundt believed that our conscious experience is not simply a passive reflection of the environment but also influenced by our intentions and goals.

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Herman von Helmholtz

A German physiologist who made significant contributions to our understanding of the nervous system. He is known for his research on the speed of nerve impulses, challenging the idea that thoughts and actions happen instantaneously.

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John Locke

A British philosopher who emphasized the importance of experience in shaping the mind, arguing that humans are born with a blank slate (tabula rasa) upon which experience writes.

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Nativism

The idea that humans are born with innate knowledge or predispositions, suggesting that some aspects of our understanding of the world are predetermined.

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Structuralism

A school of thought in psychology focusing on the basic elements of consciousness and how they combine to create complex mental experiences. It emphasizes introspection, the careful examination of one's own thoughts and feelings.

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Functionalism

A school of thought that emphasizes the purpose and function of mental processes, focusing on how they help us adapt to our environment. It asks how mental processes help us survive and thrive.

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Introspection

A method that involves carefully observing and describing one's own mental processes, often used by structuralists to identify the basic elements of consciousness.

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Gestalt Psychology

A school of thought that emphasizes the perception of whole forms or patterns rather than individual parts or isolated components. It suggests that we experience the world as integrated wholes.

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Gestalt

A German word meaning "whole" or "form." It is a central concept in Gestalt psychology, emphasizing the importance of perceiving the whole rather than just the parts.

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University of Toronto Psychology Lab

The first psychology laboratory in the British Empire, established in 1890.

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Experimental Psychology

An approach to psychology that uses controlled, repeatable experiments to study mental processes.

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G. Stanley Hall

One of the first Americans to study at Wundt's lab, known for founding an early American experimental psychology lab and journal.

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James McKeen Cattell

The first American to earn a doctorate with Wundt, known for his contributions to mental testing and experimental psychology.

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Edward Titchener

A student of Wundt who expanded upon his approach and founded the school of structuralism at Cornell University.

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Wundt's Approach to Consciousness

The study of consciousness by breaking it down into its basic elements.

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Principles of Psychology

A significant text written by William James, considered one of the earliest influential psychology books.

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Functionalism's Methods

The use of controlled experiments to study the causes and consequences of behavior, emphasizing individual differences.

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Functionalism's Focus

A shift in psychology from analyzing the structure of mental content to understanding the purposes and functions of mental processes.

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Study Notes

Psychology: The Science of the Mind

  • Psychology is the study of mental processes and behavior.
  • It examines how the organism's psychobiology and external environment influence the mind and behavior.
  • Mental processes involve brain activity during thinking, information processing, and language use.
  • Behavioral processes are observable actions in response to environmental cues.

Goals of Psychology

  • Description: Detailed study of phenomena like language acquisition, love, early experiences, and decision-making.
  • Explanation: Understanding "why" through hypotheses and theories, from substance addictions to hunger.
  • Prediction: Anticipating when behaviors and mental processes will occur, like predicting when people will help strangers.
  • Control: Influencing behaviors and mental processes, for instance, reducing unhealthy stress or improving memory.

Myths and Misconceptions

  • Myths can be harmful and indirectly damaging.
  • Accepting myths in one area hinders thinking in others.

Culture

  • Shared beliefs and practices passed down through generations.

Levels of Analysis in Psychology

  • Brain level: Biological and chemical processes in the brain during decision-making and actions.
  • Person level: Individual thoughts, actions, and choices.
  • Group level: External influences and social impact on individual functioning.

Psychology and the Residential School System

  • The residential school system in Canada aimed to erase Indigenous cultures through assimilation.
  • The TRC (Truth and Reconciliation Commission) considers the system a form of cultural genocide.
  • Legacy recommendations are crucial for addressing historical damage and healing.

Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

  • Brain level: FoMO affects brain activity during social media use and relationship seeking.
  • Person level: FoMO links with personality traits like low self-esteem and anxiety.
  • Group level: Social comparisons contribute to FoMO, affecting happiness and life satisfaction.

Psychology's Roots in Philosophy

  • Mythology: Explains fundamental mysteries through stories.
  • Philosophy: The study of knowledge, reality, existence, and meaning.
  • Ancient philosophers (Plato, Aristotle, Hippocrates) studied the mind-body connection and knowledge acquisition.
  • Greek methods emphasized questioning theories and improving explanations.

Hippocrates

  • Recognized the importance of diet, fresh air, and rest.
  • Accurately diagnosed pneumonia and epilepsy.
  • Identified the brain as the center of mental life.
  • Proposed the theory of the four humors (blood, phlegm, yellow bile, black bile).

Plato

  • Healthy mind balances intellect, emotion, and desires.
  • Imbalance leads to negative outcomes.

Aristotle

  • Studied sensations, dreams, sleep, and learning.
  • Emphasized empirical investigations (testable methods) of nature.
  • Classified living things hierarchically.

Psychology's Roots in Physiology and Psychophysics

  • Rebirth of ancient Greek scientific philosophies during the Renaissance.
  • Decline of mysticism and rise of a scientific worldview, involving mathematics and mechanics.
  • Psychophysics studied relationships between physical stimuli and their psychological effects.

René Descartes

  • Modern philosopher who contemplated the mind-body connection (dualism).

Hermann von Helmholtz

  • Measured nerve impulse speed.
  • Showed thought and movement are linked, but distinct.

Gustav Fechner

  • Founder of experimental psychology.
  • Published Elements of Psychophysics explaining methods and study techniques.
  • Showed psychology's potential as a quantitative science.

Wilhelm Wundt

  • Established first psychology lab in 1879 in Leipzig, Germany.
  • Used experimental methods to study consciousness.
  • Developed voluntarism and recognized social context.
  • Observed limited attention span.

John Locke

  • Believed in learned experience.
  • Proposed the idea of a tabula rasa (blank slate) as the newborn mind.

Francis Bacon

  • Developed empiricism: The view that all knowledge originates from experience.

Early Schools of Psychology

Structuralism

  • Edward Titchener: Studied basic elements of consciousness using introspection.
  • Introspection was unreliable due to inconsistent results.

Functionalism

  • William James: Focused on mental processes and how they aid adaptation.
  • Functionalism used empirical methods, including studying animals, children, and those with mental disorders.
  • Focused on the function rather than the structure of the mind.

Gestalt Psychology

  • Max Wertheimer and others: Emphasized the perception of whole patterns rather than parts.
    • Gestalt principles describe perception of environmental stimuli.

Charles Darwin

  • Proposed the theory of evolution and natural selection.
  • Human evolution became a focus of psychology.

Early Days of Psychology cont.

  • Psychology and philosophy were nearly synonymous before the 19th century.
  • The founding of the first psychology lab marked a separation and a new perspective towards philosophy.
  • Other significant psychologists like Stanley Hall and James McKeen Cattell made important contributions.

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