In the history of psychology, who is most commonly recognized as the first person to be referred to as a psychologist?

• A. William James
• B. Sigmund Freud
• C. Wilhelm Wundt
• D. John B. Watson

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the historical context of psychology as a scientific discipline, which began in the late 19th century.
2. Recognize that Wilhelm Wundt is widely credited with establishing the first psychology laboratory in 1879, marking the formal beginning of psychology as an experimental and independent field.
3. Note that William James, Sigmund Freud, and John B. Watson were influential figures in psychology, but they came after Wundt and contributed to different areas or schools of thought.
4. Identify that the title 'first person to be referred to as a psychologist' is commonly attributed to Wilhelm Wundt because of his pioneering role in founding experimental psychology.
5. Conclude that among the options given, Wilhelm Wundt is the correct answer based on his foundational contributions to psychology's establishment as a scientific discipline.