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Introduction to Psychology - Chapter 1 Concepts

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Terms in this set (20)

  • What is psychology?

    Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

  • What are the two main focuses of psychology?

    The study of behavior (observable actions) and mental processes (internal experiences like thoughts and feelings).

  • What does it mean that psychology is empirical?

    Psychology relies on observation and experimentation rather than intuition or opinion.

  • What is the difference between a theory and a hypothesis?

    A theory is a broad explanation based on evidence; a hypothesis is a testable prediction derived from a theory.

  • What is the scientific method in psychology?

    A systematic process involving observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and conclusion.

  • What are the main goals of psychology?

    To describe, explain, predict, and control behavior and mental processes.

  • What is structuralism?

    An early school of psychology focused on breaking down mental processes into basic components using introspection.

  • What is functionalism?

    A school of psychology that studied how mental processes help individuals adapt to their environment.

  • Who is considered the father of psychology?

    Wilhelm Wundt is often called the father of psychology for establishing the first psychology lab.

  • What is behaviorism?

    A perspective focusing on observable behavior and the role of environmental stimuli in shaping it.

  • What does cognitive psychology study?

    The study of mental processes such as perception, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making.

  • What is the biopsychosocial model?

    An approach that considers biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding behavior and mental health.

  • What is the difference between basic and applied psychology?

    Basic psychology seeks to increase knowledge; applied psychology uses that knowledge to solve real-world problems.

  • What is a correlational study?

    A research method that examines the relationship between two variables without implying causation.

  • What is an experiment in psychology?

    A controlled study where the researcher manipulates one variable to observe its effect on another.

  • What is the placebo effect?

    When participants experience changes due to their expectations rather than the treatment itself.

  • What is informed consent?

    Participants must be fully informed about a study and voluntarily agree to participate.

  • What is the role of ethics in psychological research?

    To protect participants from harm and ensure research is conducted responsibly.

  • What is neuroplasticity?

    The brain's ability to change and adapt as a result of experience.

  • What is the difference between nature and nurture?

    Nature refers to genetic inheritance; nurture refers to environmental influences on behavior.