Chapter 1 - An Introduction to Social Psychology

Action research

The application of scientific principles to social problem solving in the real world.

Anthropology

The study of culture and human behavior over time.

Clinical or counseling psychology

A subfield of psychology that helps people who have maladaptive or problematic thoughts and behaviors.

Critical thinking

The ability to analyze, apply, and explore ideas in new and open-minded ways.

False dichotomy

A situation presented as two opposing and mutually exclusive options when there may really be additional options or a compromise.

False positives

Occurs when we think an event or condition is present when it is not.

Interactions

The combination of several influences on an outcome, such as the influence of both personality and environment on behavior.

Intersectionality theory

The study of how multiple identity factors (such as race, gender, and socioeconomic status) combine to form how people are perceived and treated by others.

Nature

Influences on our thoughts and behaviors from biology or physiology, such as genetics and hormones.

Nurture

Influences on our thoughts and behaviors from our life circumstances, how we were raised, experiences, and our environment.

Positive psychology

The scientific study of human strengths, virtues, positive emotions, and achievements.

Replication crisis

A recent concern in psychology that the results of some studies aren’t found again when scientists try to repeat them.

Social psychology

The scientific study of how people influence each other’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Sociology

The study of human society and social behavior at the group level.

Type I error

See false positives.

Fast thinking

Trusting our gut feelings.

Slow thinking

Using our logic to make decisions.

Social psychologists

Ask how a group impacts an individual person.