Overview of Psychology

A collection of flashcards covering key definitions, concepts, and figures in psychology based on the lecture notes.

What is the definition of psychology?

The scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

What were two roots of psychology?

Philosophy and Physiology (biology).

What did Aristotle believe about innate ideas?

He denied innate ideas and believed that the heart is the seat of mental processes.

What is the concept of 'tabula rasa' as proposed by Locke?

The idea that the mind is a blank slate at birth.

What was Wilhelm Wundt known for in psychology?

He established the first psychology laboratory and introduced structuralism.

What is functionalism and who is associated with this concept?

Psychological processes have a function; associated with William James.

What do behaviorists primarily study?

Observable behavior.

Who were the main proponents of behaviorism?

John B. Watson and B. F. Skinner.

What did John B. Watson and B.F. Skinner redefine psychology as in the 1920s?

The scientific study of observable behavior.

What is the significance of Sigmund Freud in psychology?

He is the founder of psychoanalysis and studied various mental disorders.

What did humanists like Maslow and Rogers focus on in psychology?

They studied thriving individuals and developed theories for acceptance and self-actualization.

What are the three levels of analysis in the biopsychosocial model?

Biological, Psychological, and Social-cultural influences.

Give an example of a biological influence on behavior.

Genetic predispositions responding to the environment.

How do cognitive psychologists differ from behaviorists?

Cognitive psychologists study internal mental processes, whereas behaviorists focus on observable behavior.

What are some subfields of psychology?

Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology, Educational Psychology, Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Community Psychology.

What effect does retrieval practice have on material retention?

It boosts retention of material.

What strategy is more efficient than cramming for studying?

Spreading studying over multiple days, known as spaced rehearsal.