Introduction to Psychology - Fall 2025

Flashcards covering key concepts and terms related to Psychology from the lecture notes.

Psychology

The scientific study of the mind and behavior.

Hypothesis

A tentative explanation for a phenomenon.

Theory

A broad explanation that is consistently supported by evidence over time.

Empirical Method

Knowledge based on observation and experimentation, not just logic or authority.

Structuralism

The goal was to identify the basic components of conscious experience.

Functionalism

Focused on how mental activities helped an organism adapt to its environment.

Psychoanalytic Theory

Focuses on the role of the unconscious mind in shaping behavior.

Gestalt Psychology

Emphasizes that the 'whole is different from the sum of its parts.'

Behaviorism

Shifted psychology's focus from the mind to directly observable behavior.

Humanistic Psychology

Emphasizes the innate potential for good in all humans.

Cognitive Psychology

Focuses on mental processes such as attention, problem-solving, language, and memory.

Developmental Psychology

The scientific study of physical, cognitive, and social development across the entire lifespan.

Personality Psychology

Focuses on the unique patterns of thoughts and behaviors that make each individual unique.

Social Psychology

Explores how we interact with and relate to others.

Industrial-Organizational Psychology

Applies psychological theories to workplace settings.

Clinical Psychology

Focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders.

PhD

Doctor of Philosophy, emphasizes research-oriented skills.

PsyD

Doctor of Psychology, focuses on the application of psychological principles in a clinical context.

Clinical Psychologist

Has a PhD or PsyD and can conduct therapy but cannot prescribe medication.

Psychiatrist

Has an MD and can conduct therapy and prescribe medication.