Approaches key terms

Question 1

Introspection

Answer 1

The first systematic experimental attempt to study the mind by breaking up conscious awareness into basic structures of thoughts, images and sensations.

Question 2

Psychology

Answer 2

The scientific study of the mind, behavior and experiences.

Question 3

Science

Answer 3

A means of acquiring knowledge through systematic and objective investigation. The aim is to discover general laws.

Question 4

Behaviorist approach

Answer 4

A way of explaining behavior in terms of what is observable and in terms of learning.

Question 5

Classical conditioning

Answer 5

Learning by association. Occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired together- an unconditioned stimuli and a neutral stimuli. The neutral stimulus eventually produces the same response as the unconditioned stimulus.

Question 6

Operant conditioning

Answer 6

A form of learning in which behavior is shaped and maintained by its consequences. Possible consequences of behavior include reinforcement and punishment’s.

Question 7

Reinforcement

Answer 7

A consequence of behavior that increases the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated. Can be positive or negative.

Question 8

Social learning theory

Answer 8

A way of explaining behavior including both direct and indirect reinforcement, combining learning theory with the role of cognitive features.

Question 9

Imitation

Answer 9

Copying the behavior of others.

Question 10

Identification

Answer 10

When an observer associates themselves with a role model and wants to be like that role model.

Question 11

Modelling

Answer 11

From the observers perspective, modelling is imitating the behavior of a role model. From the role models perspective , modelling is the precise demonstration of a specific behavior that may be imitated by the observer.

Question 12

Vicarious reinforcement

Answer 12

Reinforcement which is not directly experienced but occurs through observing someone else being reinforced for a behavior. This is key factor in imitation.

Question 13

Mediational processes

Answer 13

Cognitive factors that influence learning and come between stimulus and response.

Question 14

Cognitive approach

Answer 14

The term ‘cognitive’ has come to mean ‘mental processes’ , so this approach is focused on how our mental processes (eg thoughts , perception, and attention) affect behavior.

Question 15

Internal mental processes

Answer 15

‘Private’ operations of the mind such as perception and attention that mediate between stimulus and response.

Question 16

Schema

Answer 16

A mental framework of beliefs and expectations that influence cognitive processing. They are developed from experience.

Question 17

Inference

Answer 17

The process whereby cognitive psychologists draw conclusions about the way mental processes operate on the basis of observed behavior.

Question 18

Cognitive neuroscience

Answer 18

The scientific study of those biological structures that underpin cognitive processes.

Question 19

Biological approach

Answer 19

A perspective that emphasizes the importance of physical processes in the body such a genetic inheritance and neutral function.

Question 20

Genes

Answer 20

They make up chromosomes and consist of DNA which codes the physical features of an organism and psychological features. Genes are transmitted from parents to offspring.

Question 21

Biological structure

Answer 21

An arrangement or organization of parts to form an organ, system or living thing.

Question 22

Neurochemistry

Answer 22

Relating to chemicals in the brain that regulate psychological functioning.

Question 23

Genotype

Answer 23

The particular set of genes a person possesses.

Question 24

Phenotype

Answer 24

The characteristics of an individual determined by both genes and the environment.

Question 25

Evolution

Answer 25

The changes in inherited characteristics in a biological population over successive generations.

Question 26

Psychodynamic approach

Answer 26

A perspective that describes the different forces , most of which are unconscious, that operate on the human mind and direct human behavior and experience.

Question 27

The unconscious

Answer 27

The part of the mind that we are unaware of but directs much of our behavior.

Question 28

Id

Answer 28

Entirely unconscious, the Id is made up of selfish aggressive instincts that demand immediate gratification.

Question 29

Ego

Answer 29

The ‘reality check’ that balances the conflicting demands of the Id and the Superego.

Question 30

Superego

Answer 30

The moralistic part of our personality which represents the self ideal- how we ought to be.

Question 31

Defense mechanism

Answer 31

Unconscious strategies that the Ego uses to manage the conflict between the Id and the Superego.

Question 32

Psychosexual stages

Answer 32

Five developmental stages that all children pass through. At each stage there is a different conflict, the outcome of which determines future development.

Question 33

Humanistic psychology

Answer 33

An approach to understanding behavior that emphasizes the importance of subjective experience and each persons capacity for self-determination.

Question 34

Free will

Answer 34

The notion that humans can make choices and are not determined by internal biological or external forces.

Question 35

Self-actualisation

Answer 35

The desire to grow psychologically and fulfil ones full potential- becoming what you are capable of.

Question 36

Hierarchy of needs.

Answer 36

A five-leveled hierarchal sequence in which basic psychological needs (such as hunger) must be satisfied before the higher psychological needs (self-actualization) can be achieved.

Question 37

Self

Answer 37

The ideas and values that characterize ‘I’ and ‘me’ and includes perception and valuing of ‘what I am’ and ‘what I can do’.

Question 38

Congruence

Answer 38

The aim of Rogerian therapy, when the self-concept and ideal self are broadly accord or match.

Question 39

Conditions of worth

Answer 39

When a parent places limits or boundaries on their love of their children.