Introduction to Psychology and Contemporary Approaches

A complete set of vocabulary flashcards covering foundational concepts, research methods, and contemporary psychological perspectives.

psychology

The scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

critical thinking

The process of thinking deeply and actively, asking questions, and evaluating the evidence.

Scientific Method

A process consisting of five steps: 1. Observe a phenomenon, 2. Formulate hypotheses and predictions, 3. Test through empirical research, 4. Draw conclusions, 5. Evaluate conclusions.

Descriptive research

Describes a phenomenon - determines its basic dimensions and describes what the thing is, how often it occurs, etc. Methods include observation, surveys, interviews, case studies.

correlational research

Research that examines the relationships between variables, whose purpose is to examine whether and how two variables change together.

biopsychosocial approach (umbrella term)

A perspective on human behavior that asserts that biological, psychological, and social factors are all significant ingredients in producing behavior. All of these levels are important to understanding human behavior.

biological approach

An approach to psychology focusing on the body, especially the brain and nervous system.

behavioral approach

An approach to psychology emphasizing the scientific study of observable behavioral responses and their environmental determinants.

psychodynamic approach

An approach to psychology emphasizing unconscious thought, the conflict between biological drives (such as the drive for sex) and society's demands, and early childhood family experiences.

humanistic approach

An approach to psychology emphasizing a person's positive qualities, the capacity for positive growth, and the freedom to choose any destiny.

cognitive approach

An approach to psychology emphasizing the mental processes involved in knowing: how we direct our attention, perceive, remember, think, and solve problems.

evolutionary approach

An approach to psychology centered on evolutionary ideas such as adaptation, reproduction, and natural selection as the basis for explaining specific human behaviors.