Ch 7 Vocabulary 2410

Question 1

What are schemas?

Answer 1

Mental frameworks or structures that organize and interpret information, influencing perceptions and behaviors.

Schemas help individuals to make sense of the world and guide their responses.

Question 2

What is a self-schema?

Answer 2

A cognitive structure representing an individual’s beliefs and feelings about themselves, guiding how they process self-relevant information.

Self-schemas can influence motivation and behavior.

Question 3

Define attribution.

Answer 3

The process of explaining the causes of behavior or events, often categorized as internal (dispositional) or external (situational).

Attribution affects how individuals understand their own actions and those of others.

Question 4

What is the locus of control?

Answer 4

The extent to which individuals believe they have control over events in their lives, classified as internal (self-directed) or external (influenced by outside forces).

Internal locus of control is associated with greater personal responsibility.

Question 5

What does expectancy refer to in Julian Rotter’s theory?

Answer 5

The belief about the likelihood that a particular behavior will lead to a specific outcome.

Expectancy influences motivation and decision-making.

Question 6

Define reciprocal determinism.

Answer 6

Albert Bandura’s concept that behavior, personal factors, and environmental influences interact and affect each other dynamically.

This concept emphasizes the bidirectional nature of interactions.

Question 7

What is observational learning?

Answer 7

Learning that occurs through watching and imitating others, a cornerstone of Bandura’s social cognitive theory.

This type of learning does not require direct reinforcement.

Question 8

What is self-regulation?

Answer 8

The ability to control one’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in pursuit of goals, emphasized in social cognitive theories.

Self-regulation is crucial for achieving long-term objectives.

Question 9

Define self-concept.

Answer 9

An individual’s overall perception and understanding of themselves, encompassing beliefs, attributes, and self-evaluations that influence behavior and decision-making.

Self-concept is fundamental to identity formation.

Question 10

What are cognitive distortions?

Answer 10

Inaccurate or irrational thought patterns that negatively influence emotions and behavior, often leading to maladaptive responses. Examples include:
* catastrophizing
* overgeneralization
* black-and-white thinking

These distortions can contribute to mental health issues.