psy101 Flashcards
(27 cards)
What is psychology?
The scientific study of behavior and the mind
Psychology encompasses both observable actions and internal states.
Define behavior in the context of psychology.
Directly observable actions and responses
Behavior can be measured and recorded.
What does the term ‘mind’ refer to in psychology?
Internal states and processes that must be inferred from observable, measurable responses
For example, crying may indicate sadness.
What is clinical psychology?
The study and treatment of mental health and disorders
This definition is somewhat restrictive.
What is cognitive psychology?
The study of mental processes, especially from a model that views the mind as an information processor
Involves decision-making, planning, language, and perception.
Define biopsychology.
The biological underpinnings of behavior
Includes hormones, neurotransmitters, and brain activity.
What does developmental psychology study?
Human physical, psychological, and social development across the lifespan
It examines changes from infancy to old age.
What is experimental psychology?
Basic processes such as learning, sensory systems, perception, and motivational states
Uses laboratories and can involve human or animal subjects.
What does industrial-organizational psychology focus on?
People’s behavior in the workplace, teams, and groups
It applies psychological principles to organizational settings.
What is personality psychology?
The study of human personality
It investigates individual differences in characteristics.
Define social psychology.
People’s thoughts, feelings, and behavior pertaining to the social world
It explores how individuals are influenced by social contexts.
True or False: There are 54 divisions in psychology according to the APA.
True
These divisions represent various subfields of psychology.
What are the goals of psychology?
Description, explanation, control, and application
These goals guide psychological research and practice.
What is the distinction between basic and applied research?
Basic research is knowledge for its own sake; applied research pursues solutions to specific, practical problems
Both types can overlap in real-world applications.
What are the three levels of analysis in psychology?
Biological level, psychological level, environmental level
Each level provides a different perspective on behavior.
What does the nature-nurture debate involve?
The interaction between biology and environment
Modern theories suggest a balanced interaction between the two.
What are the different perspectives in psychology?
Psychodynamic, behavioral, humanistic, cognitive, sociocultural, and biological perspectives
Each perspective offers a unique lens for examining behavior.
What is the psychodynamic perspective?
Causes of behavior are internal and unconscious
Emphasizes childhood experiences and internal psychological forces.
Define behaviorism.
An approach that emphasizes the role of the environment in shaping behavior
Focuses on observable behavior rather than internal states.
What is self-actualization?
The inborn motive to reach one’s full potential
It is a key concept in humanistic psychology.
What does cognitive neuroscience study?
Brain activity during cognitive tasks using electrical recording and brain-imaging techniques
It links cognitive processes to brain functions.
What is the sociocultural perspective?
How the social environment and cultural learning influence behavior, thoughts, and feelings
It includes concepts like norms and socialization.
Define individualism.
Personal goals and self-identity based on one’s own attributes and achievements
It contrasts with collectivism.
What is the biological perspective?
How brain processes and other bodily functions regulate behavior
It includes studying neurotransmitters and genetic influences.
