AP Psych - Types of Perspectives

Psychology

The scientific study of behavior and mental processes in both humans and animals.

Evolutionary Perspective

Focuses on adaptations of the mind that have evolved to solve specific problems of survival or reproduction - survival (fight/flight)

Psychodynamic Perspective

Behavior from the past experiences that are left in the unconscious mind and childhood experiences that are crucial in shaping adult personality.

Behavioral Perspectives

Focus on observable behaviors and learned behaviors, people/animals are controlled by the environment - more likely to do something when there is a positive outcome rather then a negative one.

Cognitive Perspective

Focuses on memory, intelligence, perception, problem solving, language, and learning (internal processes of the mind) influencing behavior. - own perspective, how we think and interpret a situation

Humanistic Perspective

Emphasizes the human capacity for choice and growth positive outlook on people related to their motivation to fulfill their potential - focused on a person’s future rather than the past (our choice)

Sociocultural Perspective

Focuses on society and culture in terms of our behavior and shaping cognitions. - social custom’s, belief’s, values and languages are all part of what changes a persons identity and reality.

Biological Perspective

The influence of genetics and brain chemistry on thinking and behavior. (physical and biological process)