origins of psychology: INTROSPECTION Flashcards
(7 cards)
what are the 6 AO1 points you must know for origins of pyschology- introspection?
-Definition of Introspection
-Wundt’s Use of Introspection
-Standardised Procedure
-Focus on Conscious Experience
-Limitations Acknowledged
-Legacy of Introspection
What is introspection in psychology?
Introspection is the systematic examination of one’s own conscious thoughts and feelings, involving careful self-observation in response to specific stimuli.
How did Wundt use introspection in his research?
In his Leipzig lab, Wundt asked trained participants to verbally report their mental processes (thoughts, images, sensations) during carefully controlled tasks.
How did Wundt make introspection more scientific?
Wundt used standardised procedures and controlled environments, ensuring that every participant received the same stimuli and instructions for improved replicability.
What was the focus of introspection?
The main aim was to study conscious mental experiences by analysing how people think and respond, in order to understand the structure of the mind (structuralism).
What limitations of introspection did Wundt recognise?
Wundt acknowledged that introspection was subjective and could not access unconscious processes, but still saw it as a step toward scientific psychology.
What was the legacy of introspection in psychology?
Despite later criticism by behaviourists, introspection paved the way for experimental methods and influenced the development of cognitive psychology.
