Foundations of Psychology

These flashcards cover key concepts, theories, and definitions related to psychology, including levels of analysis, cognitive development, and significant figures in psychology.

What are the three levels of analysis in psychology?

Biological influences, psychological influences, and social-cultural influences.

What does the term 'correlation does not mean causation' imply?

Just because two variables are correlated does not mean that one causes the other.

Who is associated with classical conditioning?

Ivan Pavlov.

What is the placebo effect?

A change in a participant's condition due to their expectations rather than from the treatment itself.

Define the independent variable in an experiment.

The variable that is manipulated or changed to test its effects.

What is the significance of the NREM stages of sleep?

Delta waves occur in N3 and N4 and are important for growth and regeneration.

What is a schema in cognitive development according to Jean Piaget?

A framework for understanding new information based on existing knowledge.

What are the four stages of cognitive development identified by Piaget?

Sensorimotor, Preoperational, Concrete Operational, and Formal Operational.

What is attachment theory?

A psychological model describing the dynamics of long-term interpersonal relationships.

What is the heritability rate in the context of autism spectrum disorder?

Approximately 80%, indicating a strong genetic component.

Who introduced the concept of psychoanalysis?

Sigmund Freud.

What is operant conditioning?

A method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for behavior.

What is the role of oxytocin in attachment?

It promotes feelings of calmness and comfort in social relationships.

What are the symptoms of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD)?

Microcephaly, small brain, and facial deformities.

What does the term 'nativism' as proposed by Plato suggest?

Certain kinds of knowledge are inborn or innate.

What are neurotransmitters?

Chemical messengers that transmit signals across synapses in the nervous system.