PSYC3026 Final Exam

Weeks 6 - 12

Who proposed that the earth and humans are not the center of the universe?

Copernicus proposed that the earth and humans are not the center of the universe.

Who suggested that humans are just another animal species?

Darwin suggested that humans are just another animal species.

Who believed that humans are not ruled by reason but by strong unconscious and irrational thoughts?

Freud believed that humans are not ruled by reason but by strong unconscious and irrational thoughts.

What are the key points in Freud's biography?

Born in 1856, lived in Vienna for most of his life before moving to London during WW2, doctor of Medicine with a private practice, started working with women who had been sexually abused by their fathers, initially thought abuse caused trauma, later believed it was made-up fantasies, developed a talking treatment, self-analyzed after his father's death, introduced concepts like free association and the importance of discussing unconscious thoughts.

What is psychic determinism in psychoanalysis?

Psychic determinism is the assumption that everything psychological has a cause that is, in principle, identifiable. Psychoanalysis assumes that everything happens inside the mind, and there are no accidents

What are the three internal structures in Freud's model of the mind?

ID (It) is the biological aspect of personality, ruled by pleasure. Ego (I) is the rational aspect of personality that accommodates reality. Superego (Over I) is the societal aspect of personality that internalizes societal beliefs, norms, and values about what is right and wrong.

What is the concept of psychic conflict in psychoanalysis?

Psychic conflict refers to the internal struggle between the ID, Ego, and Superego, which can produce anxiety, mental illness, and general unhappiness. The Ego's job is to find a compromise among these different structures.

What is the concept of libido in Freudian theory?

Libido is the psychic energy associated with life instincts, such as sexual and love instincts. Freud believed there was a fixed and finite amount of libido at any given moment.

What is primary process thinking in psychoanalysis?

Primary process thinking is the strange and primitive style of unconscious thinking manifested by the ID. Primary process thinking can involve displacement, condensation, and symbolization.

What is secondary process thinking in psychoanalysis?

Secondary process thinking is the rational and conscious processes of ordinary thought that appear as the ego develops. It includes conscious, preconscious, and unconscious thoughts.

What is the concept of the unconscious in Freud's theory?

The unconscious refers to the part of the mind that operates outside of awareness but influences thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is dominated by instincts and is not directly observable but inferred.

What are some of the instincts associated with the ID in Freud's theory?

Some instincts associated with the ID include Eros (Libido), which is the sexual and love instinct, and Thanatos, which is the death and aggressive instinct. Freud also introduced the doctrine of opposites, the idea that everything implies or contains its opposite.

What is the concept of defense mechanisms in psychoanalysis?

Defense mechanisms are psychological strategies that the ego uses to protect against anxiety and emotional pain. They include mechanisms like repression, denial, projection, and rationalization.

What is the goal of psychoanalysis as a therapy, according to Freud?

The goal of psychoanalysis as a therapy is to bring unconscious thoughts and conflicts into conscious awareness so that the conscious, rational mind can deal with them. It involves exploring unconscious material through methods like dream analysis and free association.

What is transference in psychotherapy?

Transference is the tendency to bring ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving that developed toward one important person into a later relationship with a different person. It often occurs in the therapeutic relationship, where the patient may transfer feelings and reactions from their past onto the therapist.

What is countertransference in psychotherapy?

Countertransference occurs when the therapist brings their own emotional reactions and responses to the patient into the therapeutic relationship. It involves the therapist's feelings and reactions toward the patient.

What is the significance of Freud's idea of the unconscious in modern psychology?

Freud's concept of the unconscious has influenced modern psychology in understanding areas such as implicit biases, unconscious priming, and the role of unconscious processes in behavior and cognition.

What are some of the criticisms of Freud's psychoanalysis?

Some criticisms of Freud's psychoanalysis include the excessive complexity of his theories, reliance on the case study method, vague definitions and lack of operationalization, the theory's untestability, and accusations of sexism in Freud's views on women and sexuality.

How has psychoanalysis influenced subsequent psychological theories and research?

Psychoanalysis has influenced subsequent theories by introducing concepts like the unconscious, defense mechanisms, and the importance of early childhood experiences. It has also led to research on topics such as the role of the unconscious in behavior and the impact of early life experiences on personality.

What are some key ideas in the Neo-Freudian approach to psychology?

Key ideas in the Neo-Freudian approach to psychology include reinterpreting libido as a general motivation toward life and creativity, less emphasis on unconscious processes and more on conscious perception of reality, and less emphasis on instinctual drives and more on interpersonal relationships and social factors.

Who are some important Neo-Freudian theorists and what are their key ideas?

Important Neo-Freudian theorists include Alfred Adler, who emphasized social interest and the importance of striving to overcome feelings of inferiority; Carl Jung, who introduced the concept of the collective unconscious and archetypes and emphasized individual psychology; and Karen Horney, who focused on cultural and societal factors in shaping personality, rejected Freud's penis envy concept, and introduced the idea of neurotic needs.

What are the stages of psychosocial development proposed by Erik Erikson?

The stages of psychosocial development proposed by Erik Erikson include Trust vs. Mistrust (0-2 years), Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (3-4 years), Initiative vs. Guilt (4-7 years), Industry vs. Inferiority (8-12 years), Identity vs. Identity Confusion (Adolescence), Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young Adulthood), Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle Adulthood), and Integrity vs. Despair (Old Age).

How does Object Relations Theory, as proposed by Klein and Winnicott, explain relationships?

Object Relations Theory suggests that we relate to other people based on the mental images we hold of them in our minds. These images can be both positive and negative and may not always match reality.

What is the concept of splitting in Object Relations Theory?

Splitting is the attempt to divide important love objects into two parts, one good and one bad. It is a defense mechanism and leads to idealization and devaluation of people.

What is the transitional object in Object Relations Theory?

A transitional object is an object (usually a toy or blanket) that a child uses to bridge the gap between their private fantasies and the external world. It helps with the transition from dependence on caregivers to independence.

What is the false self, as proposed by Winnicott?

 The false self is a persona that individuals put on to please others, especially in social situations. It is considered necessary for positive interpersonal relationships but may lead to a disconnection from one's true self.

What are some key concepts in Attachment Theory by John Bowlby?

Key concepts in Attachment Theory by John Bowlby include secure attachment, which involves feeling safe and being able to explore the world due to trust in the caregiver; insecure attachment styles (avoidant, anxious, and disorganized); and internal working models, which are mental representations influencing responses to attachment-related situations throughout life.

How do environmental sustainability and psychology intersect in your studies and work?

The intersection of environmental sustainability and psychology can be seen in various ways, including understanding and promoting pro-environmental behaviors, conservation psychology, environmental education, sustainable development and well-being, addressing environmental stress and resilience, behavior change interventions, and policy advocacy.

What is the approach to personality that emphasizes aspects of psychology that are distinctly human/unique?

 The approach that emphasizes aspects of psychology that are distinctly human/unique is humanistic psychology.

Why does psychology need to address the unique phenomenon of awareness?

Psychology needs to address the unique phenomenon of awareness because it brings to the fore many uniquely human phenomena that do not arise when the object of study is a molecule.

How is humanistic psychology related to the phenomenological approach and existentialism?

 Humanistic psychology is closely related to the phenomenological approach and existentialism, as existentialism is a mix of philosophy and psychology.

What is the focus of humanistic psychology?

The focus of humanistic psychology is the study of humans, not animals.

What are some key characteristics of humanistic psychology?

Humanistic psychology is an American theory that is optimistic and based on existentialism.

What does the term "holistic" mean in the context of humanistic psychology?

the idea that human behaviour should be viewed as a whole integrated experience, and not as separate parts.

How does humanistic psychology view the whole person?

Views the human system as greater than the sum of its parts.

What does phenomenology focus on in the study of personality?

Phenomenology focuses on the interior, experiential, and existential aspects of personality.

What is the primary study of humanistic psychology?

The primary study of humanistic psychology is one's conscious experience of the world, which is psychologically more important than the world itself.

What is construal in the context of personality?

Construal is an individual’s particular experience of the world or way of interpreting reality, including goals, obstacles, and opportunities.

What is introspection?

Introspection is the task of observing one’s own mental processes, and it is important in understanding consciousness.

What is existentialism, and when did it begin?

Existentialism is a philosophical approach that emphasises the existence of the individual person as a free and responsible agent determining their own development through acts of the will. It began in Europe in the mid-1800s and rose against European rationalism, science, and the industrial revolution.

What are some key questions that existentialism seeks to address?

Existentialism seeks to address questions about the nature of existence, how it feels, what it means, how people cope with existential questions and problems, and what makes people want to live despite the potential lack of objective meaning to life.

What are some core ideas that existentialism shares with humanistic and positive psychology?

Existentialism shares the idea that humans are not objects but active agents, that qualitative approaches are better at capturing personality, and that it is more about describing than predicting.

What is "thrown-ness" in existentialism?

Thrown-ness is the era, location, and situation into which a person happens to be born.

What is "angst" in existentialism, and what are some related feelings?

Angst is existential anxiety, and related feelings include anguish at having choices, forlornness from being alone with a choice, and despair at the inability to change crucial aspects of the world.

What is the concept of "bad faith" in existentialism?

Bad faith refers to avoiding existential questions and choosing to live a cowardly life, even if one manages to ignore troubling states of mind.

What is the main focus of positive psychology?

The main focus of positive psychology is the study of conditions and processes that contribute to the flourishing or optimal functioning of individuals and groups.

What are some key elements of positive psychology, as introduced by Haidt in 2006?

Key elements of positive psychology include the divided self, getting along with each other, finding happiness, psychological and moral growth, and finding purpose and meaning in life.

What are the virtues identified in positive psychology, and which one is considered the most universal?

The virtues identified in positive psychology include courage, justice, humanity (compassion), temperance, wisdom, and transcendence. Justice and humanity are considered the most universal.

What is mindfulness, and why is it important in positive psychology?

Mindfulness is the idea that one should be consciously aware of and in control of every moment of subjective experience. It is important in promoting well-being.

What is "flow," and how does it relate to positive psychology?

Flow is the totally absorbing experience of engaging in an activity that is valuable for its own sake. It relates to positive psychology because it contributes to happiness and well-being.

What is "awe," and how does it affect individuals?

Awe is the experience of encountering something vast and challenging to one's worldview. It can lead to a more humble and balanced view of one's strengths and weaknesses.

What are the three components of happiness as identified by Kesebir and Diener in 2008?

The three components of happiness are overall satisfaction with life, satisfaction with how things are going in particular life domains, and generally high levels of positive emotion and low levels of negative emotion.

What are the two approaches to seeking happiness discussed in positive psychology?

The two approaches to seeking happiness are hedonia, which seeks happiness through the pursuit of pleasure and comfort, and eudaimonia, which seeks happiness through developing one's full potential, helping others, and building community.

How does the concept of "meaning of life" relate to happiness, according to Viktor Frankl?

Viktor Frankl argued that the need for meaning is a fundamental need and helps preserve mental health. If there is no meaning, it can lead to existential despair.

What is the "Purpose in Life Test," and how has it been used in psychological research?

The Purpose in Life Test is based on Frankl's theory and measures the sense of purpose in one's life. It has been used to correlate life meaning with psychological well-being and other measures.

How does cultural complexity relate to personality traits?

Some culture-specific aspects of personality correspond to cultural syndromes such as complexity, tightness, individualism, and collectivism.

What is the role of genetics and epigenetics in explaining cultural differences in personality?

Genetics and epigenetics can play a role in explaining cultural differences in personality, such as the influence of certain alleles on personality traits.

What is the concept of bicultural identity, and how can it influence personality?

Bicultural identity refers to identifying with two different cultures, and it can influence personality by leading to a more complex and nuanced sense of self.

What is self-transcendence, and how does it relate to well-being?

Self-transcendence is the process of going beyond the self, and it relates to well-being by contributing to a sense of meaning, connection, and fulfillment.

What are some ways to cultivate self-transcendence, according to Wong's model?

Some ways to cultivate self-transcendence include engaging in altruism, finding purpose, pursuing excellence, and embracing spirituality or religion.

What are the potential benefits of practicing mindfulness and meditation in relation to self-transcendence and well-being?

Practicing mindfulness and meditation can lead to increased self-awareness, a greater sense of connectedness, and a more profound sense of meaning and purpose, all of which contribute to well-being.

What are the key components of Maslow's holistic-dynamic theory of personality?

Maslow's theory includes a hierarchy of needs, the concept of self-actualization, and the idea that personality is shaped by the pursuit of growth, autonomy, and self-transcendence.

What are the different levels of the hierarchy of needs, from the most basic to the highest?

The hierarchy of needs includes physiological needs (e.g., food, water, shelter), safety needs (e.g., security, stability), belongingness and love needs (e.g., social connections), esteem needs (e.g., self-esteem, recognition), and self-actualization needs (e.g., personal growth, fulfillment).

How do deficiency needs and being needs differ in Maslow's theory?

 Deficiency needs are lower-level needs that arise from a lack of something and motivate individuals to satisfy those needs. Being needs are higher-level needs that are driven by the desire for personal growth and self-fulfillment.

What happens when deficiency needs are met?

When deficiency needs are met, individuals experience relief and a decrease in motivation to satisfy those needs.

What is self-actualization, and how does it relate to the hierarchy of needs?

Self-actualization is the process of becoming the best version of oneself and fulfilling one's potential. It is at the top of the hierarchy of needs and can only be pursued once lower-level needs are satisfied.

What are the characteristics of self-actualized individuals, according to Maslow?

Self-actualized individuals exhibit qualities such as creativity, autonomy, authenticity, a sense of purpose, and a strong connection to others and the world.

How does Maslow view the relationship between self-actualization and psychological health?

Maslow believes that self-actualization is closely tied to psychological health, and the pursuit of self-actualization contributes to mental well-being.

What is "peak experience," and why is it important in Maslow's theory?

Peak experiences are moments of intense joy, creativity, and fulfillment. They are important in Maslow's theory because they provide glimpses of self-actualization and can be transformative.

What are some criticisms of Maslow's theory?

Critics argue that the hierarchy of needs is not universally applicable, that self-actualization is difficult to define and measure, and that the theory lacks empirical support.

How has Maslow's work influenced contemporary psychology?

Maslow's emphasis on the positive aspects of human nature, personal growth, and self-fulfillment has influenced contemporary fields like positive psychology and the study of well-being.

What are some modern approaches to studying self-actualization and well-being?

Contemporary approaches include researching factors that contribute to well-being, such as positive psychology interventions, mindfulness practices, and the development of positive traits.

How can Maslow's theory be applied in practical settings, such as education and therapy?

In education, it can inform teaching methods that promote self-actualization and holistic development. In therapy, it can be used to help clients work toward self-actualization and personal growth.

What is "positive education," and how does it incorporate Maslow's ideas?

Positive education is an approach that combines traditional education with the principles of positive psychology, including the pursuit of well-being and self-actualization.

How can organizations benefit from applying Maslow's principles to their workplace culture?

Organizations can benefit by creating a work environment that supports employees' psychological needs, fosters personal growth, and promotes a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

What is the concept of "job crafting," and how does it relate to Maslow's ideas about self-actualization at work?

Job crafting involves employees shaping their roles to better align with their strengths and passions. It relates to Maslow's ideas by allowing individuals to pursue self-actualization within their work.

How might Maslow's concept of self-actualization be related to the field of environmental sustainability?

Self-actualization can be related to sustainability by recognizing that individuals who are self-actualized may be more inclined to make choices that benefit the environment and contribute to the greater good.

What is the role of self-transcendence in the context of sustainability?

Self-transcendence, which involves going beyond the self, can lead individuals to prioritize the well-being of the planet and future generations, aligning with sustainable practices.

How can organizations and initiatives focused on sustainability incorporate Maslow's principles?

 They can create environments that support employees' pursuit of self-actualization and connect sustainability efforts to individuals' sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Can Maslow's theory provide insights into motivating people to adopt sustainable behaviors?

Maslow's theory suggests that emphasizing the fulfillment and growth potential of sustainable actions may motivate individuals to adopt more environmentally friendly behaviors.

How might the pursuit of self-actualization influence individuals' attitudes and behaviors toward sustainability in Australia?

In Australia, the pursuit of self-actualization may lead individuals to engage in environmentally responsible behaviors and support sustainability initiatives that align with their values and personal growth goals.

What is learning, and how is it defined?

Learning is defined as a change in behavior that occurs as a result of experience.

What are the two main categories of theories discussed in Week 9 related to learning?

The two main categories of theories discussed in Week 9 related to learning are Behaviorism and Social Learning Theories.

What is the philosophical precursor to behaviorism, and what key concepts are associated with it?

The philosophical precursor to behaviorism is empiricism, which includes the idea of "tabula rasa" (the blank slate) and the belief that different things can become associated in the mind through experience.

What is hedonism, and who was a notable philosopher associated with it?

Hedonism is the belief that the main goal in life is to achieve pleasure and avoid pain, and Epicurus, a Greek philosopher, is a notable figure associated with hedonism.

What is the goal of classic behaviorism, and how does it view personality?

The goal of classic behaviorism is functional analysis, which is a description of how behavior is a function of the environment. Classic behaviorism views personality as the sum total of everything an individual does, without considering traits or unconscious conflicts.

What are the three types of learning discussed in behaviorism, and can you provide examples of each?

The three types of learning in behaviorism are: 1. Habituation: The decrease in response to a stimulus on repeated applications. 2. Classical conditioning/respondent conditioning: When a new, conditioned stimulus elicits a response similar to an unconditioned response. 3. Operant conditioning: Learning through consequences, such as rewards and punishments.

Who are some key figures associated with classical conditioning in behaviorism?

 Ivan Pavlov and John B. Watson are key figures associated with classical conditioning in behaviorism.

What is the main focus of B.F. Skinner's operant conditioning theory?

 B.F. Skinner's operant conditioning theory focuses on the idea that behavior is shaped by external, independent variables, and it emphasizes the role of consequences in learning.

Who introduced the concept of observational learning, and what are some key components of social cognitive theory?

Albert Bandura introduced the concept of observational learning. Key components of social cognitive theory include observational learning, the active and complex nature of learning, and the concept of self-efficacy.

What are some critiques of behaviorism as a psychological theory?

Some critiques of behaviorism include its inability to explain all aspects of human behavior, its focus on animals rather than humans, its neglect of cognitive processes, intention, awareness, and its disregard for the social dimension of learning.

What are the two main categories of individual goals, as discussed in the text?

The two main categories of individual goals are idiographic goals (unique to individuals) and nomothetic goals (universal or essential motivations).

What is the concept of emotional intelligence, and how is it defined?

Emotional intelligence is defined as the ability to perceive emotions accurately in oneself and others, and to control and use one's own emotions constructively.

How is self-knowledge categorized, and what are some components of declarative self-knowledge?

Self-knowledge is categorized into declarative knowledge (verbalized information) and procedural knowledge (expressed in actions or habits). Components of declarative self-knowledge include self-esteem, opinions about oneself, and self-schemas.

What is the "Twenty Statement Test" used for, and how does it relate to self-knowledge?

The "Twenty Statement Test" is used to understand how individuals define themselves. It relates to self-knowledge by revealing how individuals express their self-concept through statements.

What is the concept of implicit self, and how is it measured?

The implicit self refers to aspects of the self that individuals are not cognitively aware of. It is measured through methods like the Implicit Association Test (IAT), which assesses implicit biases and associations.

What is the debate regarding the existence of a stable self, and what are the two main positions?

The debate regarding the existence of a stable self revolves around two main positions: one that posits the existence of a stable self that thinks, feels, and acts, and another that denies the existence of a stable self.

How are multiple selves and contexts related, and what are some potential implications of having multiple selves?

Multiple selves and contexts are related in the sense that individuals may have different selves that align with various contexts and roles in their lives. The implications include the potential for competing authentic selves and possible links to mental health issues.

How can the cognitive approach be integrated with the trait approach in the study of personality?

The cognitive approach can be integrated with the trait approach by considering cognitive processes that mediate or moderate the relationship between traits and behavior. This integration can help explain how traits manifest in behavior and how cognitive processes influence personality.

What trait is most conducive to positive outcomes, followed by extraversion, in relationships according to Oxer and Benet-Martinez (2006)?

Agreeableness.