Psychology in Everyday Life - Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and methods related to psychology as outlined in the lecture notes.

Goals of Psychology

To describe, explain, predict, and influence behavior and mental processes.

Objective vs. Subjective

Objective is not influenced by personal feelings; subjective is based on personal feelings.

Critical Thinking

The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment.

Automatic Thinking

Fast, unconscious cognitive processing without deliberation.

Controlled Thinking

Deliberate, effortful cognitive processing with careful decision-making.

Scientific Method

A systematic approach that tests theories through observation, hypothesis, and data analysis.

Observational Studies

Research method observing participants in their natural settings without manipulation.

Correlation

A statistical measure that describes the strength and direction of a relationship between two variables.

Correlation ≠ Causation

A correlation between two variables does not imply one causes the other.

Experimental Method

Research method to manipulate variables to assess cause and effect.

Independent Variable (IV)

The variable that is manipulated in an experiment.

Dependent Variable (DV)

The variable that is measured in an experiment.

Random Assignment

Assigning participants randomly to conditions to ensure groups are equivalent.

Neurons

The basic building blocks of the nervous system that transmit information.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals released by neurons to communicate with other neurons.

Endocrine System

A system of glands that release hormones influencing bodily functions.

Consciousness

Subjective awareness of self and environment, allowing control and communication.

Selective Inattention

Failure to notice visible objects due to attention being directed elsewhere.

Sleep Stages

Periodic natural loss of consciousness, including NREM and REM sleep.

Attachment Patterns

Responses of children to caretakers, including secure, avoidant, and ambivalent responses.