Introduction to Psychology

Practice flashcards created for reviewing key concepts in psychology based on the lecture notes.

What is psychology?

The scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

What are the four goals of psychology?

Description, Explanation, Prediction, and Control.

Who is considered the 'Father of Psychology'?

Wilhelm Wundt.

What is structuralism?

The focus on the structure or basic elements of the mind, brought to the U.S. by Edward Titchener.

Define functionalism in psychology.

The focus on how the mind allows people to adapt, live, work, and play.

What does Gestalt psychology emphasize?

The study of perception and sensation, focusing on patterns and whole figures.

What type of conditioning is Ivan Pavlov known for?

Classical conditioning.

What is the main focus of behavioral psychology?

Observable behavior.

What is the scientific method?

A system for reducing bias and error in the measurement of data.

Define correlation in psychology.

A measure of the relationship between two variables.

What is an independent variable (IV) in an experiment?

The variable that is manipulated.

What is a dependent variable (DV) in an experiment?

The variable that is measured.

What is the purpose of a control group?

To compare with the experimental group that is exposed to the independent variable.

What is a single-blind study?

A study in which participants do not know if they are in the experimental or control group.

What is informed consent in psychological research?

Participants must be fully informed about the study and agree to participate.

Why is confidentiality important in research?

To protect the privacy of participants.