Introduction to Psychology

These flashcards cover the key concepts and definitions from the lecture on psychology, ranging from basic definitions to specialized terms and theories.

What is the definition of psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of thought, feelings, and behavior.

What does the term 'stimulus' refer to in psychology?

A stimulus is an object or event that triggers thoughts, feelings, or behaviors.

What is the difference between applied and pure psychology?

Pure psychology explores mechanisms and abstract concepts, while applied psychology focuses on predicting, changing, and managing behavior for real-world outcomes.

What is confirmation bias?

Confirmation bias is the tendency to overvalue information that supports one's existing beliefs.

What are the key branches of psychology mentioned in the lecture?

Key branches include structuralism, functionalism, gestalt psychology, psychoanalysis, behaviorism, cognitivism, and social psychology.

What does the term 'operational definition' mean?

An operational definition specifies how a conceptual variable is measured in a study.

What is the null hypothesis?

The null hypothesis states that there is no difference or effect between groups exposed to the independent variable.

What is the significance of 'placebo groups' in research?

Placebo groups are used to control for the placebo effect, ensuring that results are not influenced by participants' expectations.

Define the term 'correlation.'

Correlation measures the strength and direction of a relationship between two variables, but does not imply causation.

What is the role of the amygdala?

The amygdala is involved in emotional processing, particularly fear, anxiety, and other emotions.

What is the primary function of the hippocampus?

The hippocampus is centrally involved in memory consolidation and spatial navigation.

What are the five basic tastes?

The five basic tastes are sweet, salty, sour, umami, and bitter.

What is the difference between sensation and perception?

Sensation involves receiving and processing environmental information, while perception is the organization and interpretation of that information.

What theories explain color vision?

The Trichromatic Color Theory explains color perception in terms of three cone types, while Opponent Process Theory explains color processing in contrasting pairs.

What is the significance of 'sleep' according to the lecture?

Sleep is crucial for brain maintenance, learning, memory consolidation, and emotional regulation.

What is the concept of 'dream protection theory'?

Dream protection theory posits that dreams transform instincts into symbols representing wish fulfillment.

What does WEIRD stand for in the context of psychology research?

WEIRD stands for Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, Democratic participants, which are often overrepresented in studies.

What is the role of the autonomic nervous system?

The autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate and digestion.

What is the difference between a true experiment and a quasi-experiment?

A true experiment involves random assignment to conditions, while a quasi-experiment does not randomize one or more of its variables.