Key principles of debates Flashcards
(18 cards)
How does the mind function according to the cognitive area?
The mind works like a computer, which inputs and outputs information.
This perspective emphasizes the processing of internal mental processes such as attention and memory.
What are some beneficial applications of the cognitive area?
Many beneficial applications eg. to the police.
Cognitive psychology can improve investigative techniques and memory recall.
What is a limitation of the cognitive area?
Cannot directly observe internal mental processes.
This makes it challenging to validate theories based on observable behavior alone.
What does the developmental area focus on?
Focuses on the whole lifespan of human development.
It examines changes from childhood through adulthood.
What are the beneficial applications of the developmental area?
Helps us understand how we develop/change through life.
This knowledge is useful in parenting and education.
What is a limitation regarding the ethics of the developmental area?
Children (especially young) cannot give informed consent.
This raises ethical concerns in research involving minors.
What does the social area emphasize regarding behavior?
People and places influence our behaviour.
It highlights the impact of social contexts on individual actions.
What is a key concept of the social area in psychology?
External influences make more of an impact than internal (situational > dispositional).
This suggests that context often shapes behavior more than personality traits.
What is a limitation of the social area?
Reductionist- fails to acknowledge individual differences.
It may overlook personal factors that contribute to behavior.
What assumption does the biological area make about behavior?
Assumes our behaviour is caused by chemical and physical changes in the body.
This perspective is rooted in biological determinism.
What is a strength of the biological area?
Relies on lab experiments- enables behaviour to be studied in a quantitative and scientific way.
This approach allows for objective measurement of variables.
What is a criticism of the biological area?
Reductionist- neglects other factors eg. social factors.
It simplifies complex behaviors to biological explanations alone.
What is a key focus of the individual differences area?
Individuals differ in terms of thinking and behaviour.
This area studies how personal traits affect actions and reactions.
What are some practical applications of the individual differences area?
Practical/beneficial applications for treatment.
Understanding individual differences can lead to tailored therapeutic interventions.
What is a methodological limitation of the individual differences area?
Subjective methodology (case studies).
Case studies can introduce bias and limit generalizability.
What does the behaviourist perspective state about behavior?
Behaviour is learnt.
This approach focuses on observable behavior rather than internal thoughts.
What are some applications of the behaviourist perspective?
Useful applications eg. to help people with phobias.
Techniques like systematic desensitization are derived from behaviorist principles.
What is a criticism of the behaviourist perspective?
Ethical issues- animals or children cannot give consent.
This raises ethical dilemmas in experimental research.
