Group 1 — Foundations & Early Psychology

empirical approach

learning through observation, experimentation, and evidence

critical thinking

questioning information, evaluating evidence, and considering sources before reaching conclusions

psychology

the scientific study of behavior and mental processes

structuralism

early approach that tried to break conscious experience into its basic parts

functionalism

studied the purpose/function of thoughts and behaviors and how they help us adapt

behaviorism

focuses on observable behavior rather than internal thoughts and feelings

humanistic psychology

focuses on personal growth, free will, and reaching one's potential

cognitive psychology

study of thinking, memory, language, problem-solving, and decision-making

cognitive neuroscience

study of the relationship between brain activity and mental processes

positive psychology

scientific study of strengths, happiness, well-being, and positive traits