Psychological Perspectives

Humanist Perspective

Most behaviors are chosen by humans and those choices are guided by physiological, emotional, or spiritual needs.

Psychodynamic Perspective

Much of our thoughts and actions are believed to be controlled by the unconscious mind.

Biopsychology (Neuroscience) Perspective

Human thought and behavior are explained strictly in terms of biological processes.

Evolutionary (Darwinian) Perspective

Human thoughts and actions are examined in terms of natural selection.

Behavioral Perspective

Human thought and behavior are explained in terms of conditioning.

Cognitive Perspective

Human thought and behavior are examined in terms of how we interpret, process, and remember environmental events.

Social-Cultural (Sociocultural) Perspective

The influence culture has on thoughts and actions is examined and how these aspects vary among cultures.

Biopsychosocial Perspective

Human thinking and behavior result from combinations of biological, psychological, and social factors.

Eclectic Point of View

No one perspective has all the answers to the variety of human thought and behavior.