Questions and Answers
Where was the first psychology laboratory established and who is considered the first psychologist?
Wilhelm Wundt in Leipzig, Germany 1879
What does behavior and mental processes refer to in contemporary psychology?
Behavior and mental processes refer to the study of behavior through rewards and punishments and mental processes by studying unconscious motives and conflicts.
Why might some psychologists not classify Aunt Laura's book project as 'psychology'?
She does not use scientific research methods and uses her own personal experiences.
Which historical perspectives would disagree with the statement: 'Psychology is the science of behavior and mental processes, so psychological conclusions must be based on experimentation, not personal insight.' Name at least two psychologists.
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What is the definition of psychological perspectives?
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Which psychological perspective will Bob most likely focus on if he is interested in how individuals think about and interpret life experiences?
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Which contemporary perspective emphasizes that differing political and economic systems influence citizens' customs and attitudes?
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The behaviorists emphasized that psychology should only study ________ __________.
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The behavior genetics perspective combines which two psychological perspectives?
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Give an example of topics investigated by the movement called positive psychology.
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Who is the specialist most likely to diagnose and treat patients?
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What is the main difference between clinical psychologists and academic psychologists?
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Identify the main area of expertise for an Organizational psychologist.
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Why is psychology considered a science?
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Who was the first American psychologist and wrote the first American psychology textbook?
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Which historical psychologist would agree with the statement: 'To understand our conscious experience, we must systematically investigate the elements that are the basic building blocks of consciousness'?
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Which historical psychologist is associated with the humanistic movement?
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What major contribution did Kenneth and Mamie Phipps Clark make to psychology?
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Which contemporary perspective believes that humans learn behaviors through rewards, punishments, and observing others?
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Which modern psychological perspective focuses on how healthy people strive to reach their full potential?
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Which psychological approach explains human behavior in the context of understanding the chemicals, hormones, and physical structures of the body?
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Which psychological perspective focuses on rewards and punishments as motivation for behavior?
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Which perspective believes behavior stems from unconscious drives and conflicts experienced in childhood?
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What is the definition of behavior genetics?
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What is the definition of evolutionary psychology?
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Study Notes
Foundations of Psychology
- The first psychology laboratory was established by Wilhelm Wundt in 1879 in Leipzig, Germany, marking the formal beginning of psychology as a science.
- Wilhelm Wundt is regarded as the "Father of Psychology" due to his foundational role in establishing experimental methods.
Definition and Scope of Psychology
- Contemporary psychology investigates behavior and mental processes:
- Behavior: Includes actions influenced by rewards and punishments.
- Mental Processes: Involves the study of unconscious motives and psychological conflicts.
Research Methodology in Psychology
- Personal experiences in writing psychology-related works may not be deemed valid by some psychologists due to:
- Lack of scientific research methodology.
- Heavy reliance on subjective personal insights.
Historical Perspectives
- Historical psychologists like Young and Sigmund Freud might argue against the need for experimental basis for psychological conclusions, focusing on personal insight.
- Carl Rogers is a prominent figure in the humanistic movement, emphasizing individual growth and self-actualization.
Psychological Perspectives
- Major psychological perspectives include:
- Cognitive: Emphasizes mental processes and thought patterns.
- Biological: Examines psychological phenomena through biological factors.
- Social-Cultural: Studies how society and culture influence psychological experiences.
- Behavioral: Focuses on observable behaviors and the influence of rewards and punishments.
- Humanistic: Centers on personal growth and the fulfillment of human potential.
- Psychodynamic: Investigates how unconscious drives and childhood experiences shape behavior.
Behavioral Studies
- Behaviorism asserts that psychology should focus solely on observable behaviors rather than internal mental states.
- Behavioral genetics combines elements from both behavioral and biological perspectives to explore how genetics influence behavior.
Positive Psychology
- This movement focuses on optimal human functioning, emphasizing factors that help individuals and communities thrive.
Professional Roles in Psychology
- Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health issues.
- Academic psychologists focus on healthy individuals and generally have fewer interactions with severe mental illnesses.
- Organizational psychologists assist companies in improving their structures and employee dynamics.
Psychological Science
- Psychology is classified as a science due to its systematic use of research methods to investigate human behavior and mental processes.
Notable Contributions
- William James: First American psychologist and author of the first American psychology textbook.
- Kenneth and Mamie Phipps Clark: Researched institutionalized racism, contributing significantly to discussions about race in psychology.
Contemporary Psychological Focus
- The behavioral perspective highlights learning through rewards, punishments, and observation.
- Humanistic perspective promotes understanding how individuals reach their full potential.
- Biological perspective links behavior to physical processes, chemicals, and hormones.
- Psychodynamic perspective attributes behavior to unconscious influences from childhood.
Research Definitions
- Behavior Genetics: A field studying the genetic basis and origins of individual behavioral differences.
- Evolutionary Psychology: An approach examining psychological traits through the lens of evolutionary theory.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the foundational concepts of psychology with these flashcards. Explore key figures like Wilhelm Wundt and core definitions that shape the field. Perfect for beginners or anyone looking to refresh their understanding of psychology's origins.
