Question 1

Which of the following best describes the scientific approach in psychology?

Accepted Answer

It involves systematic observation, hypothesis testing, and theory revision.

Question 2

A psychologist claims that a new therapy 'has been proven to work for everyone.' Which principle of scientific thinking does this statement violate?

Accepted Answer

Falsifiability

Question 3

Which school of psychology was most influenced by Charles Darwin and focused on the function and purpose of thoughts and behaviors?

Accepted Answer

Functionalism

Question 4

A website claims a treatment is effective based on several personal testimonials but lacks references to peer-reviewed studies. What is the best way to evaluate this claim?

Accepted Answer

Look for references to controlled scientific studies in peer-reviewed journals.

Question 5

Which concept refers to the tendency to seek out evidence that supports our beliefs and ignore evidence that contradicts them?

Accepted Answer

Confirmation bias

Question 6

A study finds a correlation between ice cream sales and murder rates. What logical fallacy might someone commit if they conclude that ice cream causes murder?

Accepted Answer

Correlation-causation fallacy

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT considered psychology according to the study materials?

Accepted Answer

Psychobabble and jargon

Question 8

Which principle is essential for scientific findings to be considered robust and reliable?

Accepted Answer

They must be replicated by independent researchers.

Question 9

According to research by Boland and Nisbett (2005), individuals of East Asian ancestry tend to focus on which aspect of photographs?

Accepted Answer

Background elements such as rocks and leaves

Question 10

Which school of psychology emphasized the role of unconscious psychological processes and early life experiences?

Accepted Answer

Psychoanalysis

Question 11

Which of the following is a key feature of a scientific theory?

Accepted Answer

It ties multiple findings together and generates predictions.

Question 12

What is the main difference between basic and applied research in psychology?

Accepted Answer

Basic research examines how the mind works, while applied research solves practical problems.

Question 13

Which of the following statements about expressing anger is supported by psychological research?

Accepted Answer

Expressing anger may provide short-term relief but does not reduce anger or aggression in the long term.

Question 14

Which concept refers to the extent to which a study's findings can be applied to other populations or contexts?

Accepted Answer

Generalizability

Question 15

Which school of psychology focused on observable behavior and rejected the study of mental processes?

Accepted Answer

Behaviorism

Question 16

Which of the following is a mistaken belief that we see the world exactly as it is?

Accepted Answer

Naive realism

Question 17

Which school of psychology was founded by Wilhelm Wundt and focused on identifying the basic elements of experience?

Accepted Answer

Structuralism

Question 18

Which area of psychology examines how mental processes such as language, problem solving, and memory influence behavior?

Accepted Answer

Cognitivism

Question 19

A hypothesis in psychology must be:

Accepted Answer

A testable prediction derived from a theory.

Question 20

Which of the following is a sign of pseudoscience?

Accepted Answer

Extreme claims without qualified language.

Introduction to Psychology: Course Overview and Key Concepts

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards