WK 1- Applied Psychology Textbook Card

Psychology

The scientific study of the mind and behavior.

Hypothesis

A tentative explanation proposed by a researcher to explain a phenomenon.

Scientific theory

A broad explanation for some aspect of the natural world that is consistently supported by evidence over time.

Empirical

Based on measurable data and observation.

Introspection

A method where individuals examine their own conscious experience.

Functionalism

Psychological perspective focusing on how mental activities help an organism adapt to its environment.

Structuralism

An approach in psychology that emphasizes the contents of consciousness.

Psychoanalytic theory

Focuses on the role of the unconscious mind and early childhood experiences in behavior.

Gestalt psychology

A psychological approach emphasizing that the whole of personal experience is different from the sum of individual parts.

Behaviorism

A psychological perspective that focuses exclusively on observable behavior.

Cognitive psychology

The study of cognition, or thoughts, and their relationship to experiences and actions.

Humanism

A perspective within psychology that emphasizes personal growth and the inherent goodness of human beings.

Neuroscience

The interdisciplinary study of the nervous system and its relationship to behavior.

Social psychology

The study of how individuals interact and relate to one another.

Developmental psychology

The scientific study of development across a lifespan.

Clinical psychology

The area of psychology that focuses on diagnosing and treating psychological disorders.

Health psychology

Focuses on how biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors affect health.

Forensic psychology

A branch of psychology that applies psychological concepts in legal contexts.

Critical thinking

The active application of skills to analyze and evaluate information.

Consciousness

Awareness of one's thoughts, feelings, and environment.

Reinforcement

A consequence that increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated.

Client-centered therapy

A therapeutic approach developed by Carl Rogers that emphasizes the role of the client in their own therapy.

Biopsychology

Study of biological basesof behavior and mental processes.

Evolutionary Psychology

Examines behaviour from an evolutionary perspective.

Health Psychology

A field that focuses on how biological, social, and psychological factors influence health and illness.

Clinical Psychology

A branch of psychology that focuses on diagnosing and treating mental disorders and emotional disturbances.

Forensic Psychology

Application of psychological principles in legal contexts

Cognitive Psychology

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

Developmental Psychology

Studies human development throughout the lifespan

Personality Psychology

Focuses on understanding individual personality traits