Professor Taylor’s Guide to Psychology 1101: Chapters 1–3 Review

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology from Chapters 1–3 of Psychology 1101 as outlined in Professor Taylor's lecture notes.

What is psychology?

The scientific study of mind and behavior.

What are the goals of psychology?

To describe, explain, predict, and influence behavior.

What is behavior?

Any observable action made by a living organism.

What is the scientific method?

A systematic process for conducting research and acquiring knowledge.

What is empirical evidence?

Information acquired through observation or experimentation.

What is a theory?

A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that can generate testable predictions.

What is a hypothesis?

A testable prediction based on a theory.

Who founded the first psychology lab and focused on structuralism?

Wilhelm Wundt.

What does the biological approach in psychology focus on?

Brain structures and neurotransmitters.

What is the independent variable in research?

The variable that is manipulated to observe its effect.

What is the dependent variable in research?

The variable that is measured to see if it changes due to manipulation.

What is a confounding variable?

An outside influence that affects the dependent variable.

What is random assignment?

Assigning participants to experimental and control groups by chance.

What does the central nervous system (CNS) consist of?

The brain and spinal cord.

What is a neuron?

A nerve cell that transmits information.

What part of the neuron carries signals away from the cell body?

Axon.

Which lobe of the brain is responsible for decision-making and planning?

Frontal lobe.

What is the function of neurotransmitters?

They transmit signals across the synapse to other neurons.

Which perspective in psychology focuses on personal growth and self-actualization?

Humanistic psychology.

What is the amygdala involved in?

Emotion and fear responses.

What part of the brain is essential for forming new memories?

Hippocampus.