PSYC C1000 LBCC: Study Guide for Exam #1 – Science of Psychology & Biological Perspective

Chapter 1: Science of Psychology

Main Goals of Psychology

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Its main goals are to describe, explain, predict, and control behaviors and mental processes.

• Describe: Observing and noting behaviors to understand what is happening.

• Explain: Identifying causes and reasons for behaviors.

• Predict: Anticipating future behaviors based on current knowledge.

• Control: Modifying behaviors in beneficial ways.

Psychological Perspectives

Several major perspectives guide psychological research and practice:

• Biological Perspective: Focuses on the influence of biology, especially the brain and nervous system.

• Behavioral Perspective: Emphasizes observable behaviors and the role of learning.

• Cognitive Perspective: Examines mental processes such as thinking, memory, and problem-solving.

• Humanistic Perspective: Highlights personal growth and self-actualization.

• Psychodynamic Perspective: Explores unconscious drives and early childhood experiences.

• Sociocultural Perspective: Considers how social and cultural factors influence behavior.

Psychological Professionals

• Clinical Psychologists: Diagnose and treat mental disorders.

• Counseling Psychologists: Help people with everyday problems.

• Psychiatrists: Medical doctors who can prescribe medication for psychological disorders.

• Research Psychologists: Conduct studies to advance psychological knowledge.

Criteria for Critical Thinking

Critical thinking involves evaluating information objectively and systematically.

• Ask questions and be curious.

• Examine evidence and sources.

• Consider alternative explanations.

• Avoid emotional reasoning and biases.

Ethical Practices in Research

Ethics are essential in psychological research to protect participants.

• Informed Consent: Participants must be informed about the study and agree to participate.

• Confidentiality: Personal information must be kept private.

• Debriefing: Participants are informed about the study’s purpose after participation.

• Protection from Harm: Researchers must minimize risks.

Subject Samples/Populations

Researchers select samples to represent populations.

• Population: The entire group of interest.

• Sample: A subset of the population used in the study.

• Random Sampling: Every member has an equal chance of selection.

Dependent/Independent Variables

Variables are central to experimental research.

• Independent Variable (IV): The variable manipulated by the researcher.

• Dependent Variable (DV): The variable measured to assess the effect of the IV.

Example: In a study on sleep and memory, sleep duration is the IV, and memory test scores are the DV.

Experimental & Control Groups

• Experimental Group: Receives the treatment or manipulation.

• Control Group: Does not receive the treatment; used for comparison.

Research Designs & Methods

Common research methods include:

• Descriptive Methods: Observations, case studies, surveys.

• Correlational Studies: Examine relationships between variables.

• Experimental Methods: Test cause-and-effect relationships.

The Scientific Method

The scientific method is a systematic approach to research.

• Formulate a question.

• Develop a hypothesis.

• Test the hypothesis through research.

• Analyze data and draw conclusions.

• Report findings.

Correlations & Types

Correlation measures the relationship between two variables.

• Positive Correlation: Both variables increase together.

• Negative Correlation: One variable increases as the other decreases.

• No Correlation: No consistent relationship.

Correlation Coefficient: $r$ ranges from $-1$ to $+1$.

Type of Correlation	Description	Example
Positive	Variables move in same direction	Height and weight
Negative	Variables move in opposite directions	Exercise and body fat
None	No relationship	Hair color and intelligence

Chapter 2: Biological Perspective

Types of Neurons

Neurons are specialized cells for transmitting information.

• Sensory Neurons: Carry information from sensory organs to the brain.

• Motor Neurons: Transmit signals from the brain to muscles and glands.

• Interneurons: Connect neurons within the brain and spinal cord.

Components of Neurons

• Dendrites: Receive signals from other neurons.

• Cell Body (Soma): Contains the nucleus and maintains cell health.

• Axon: Transmits electrical impulses away from the cell body.

• Myelin Sheath: Insulates the axon and speeds up transmission.

• Axon Terminals: Release neurotransmitters to communicate with other cells.

The Human Nervous System

The nervous system coordinates actions and transmits signals.

• Central Nervous System (CNS): Brain and spinal cord.

• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): All nerves outside the CNS.

• Somatic System: Controls voluntary movements.

• Autonomic System: Regulates involuntary functions (e.g., heart rate).

Brain Structures & Functions

The brain consists of several key structures:

• Stem: Controls basic life functions (breathing, heartbeat).

• Cortex: Responsible for higher-order functions (thinking, planning).

• Limbic System: Involved in emotions, motivation, and memory.

Brain Structure	Main Function
Brain Stem	Regulates vital functions
Cerebral Cortex	Complex thought, perception
Limbic System	Emotion, memory

Example: The hippocampus (part of the limbic system) is crucial for forming new memories.

Additional info: Some details, such as specific neurotransmitters or more advanced research designs, were inferred to provide a complete study guide for introductory psychology students.