Intro to Psychology - Exam Review

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions from the lecture notes on Psychology, aiding students in their exam preparation.

What is Psychology?

The scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

What does the Scientific Method use to understand phenomena?

Empirical Evidence.

What is a Theory in psychological research?

Broad explanations predicting phenomena of interest.

What is a Hypothesis?

Prediction stated in a testable way.

What is an Operational Definition?

Translation of a hypothesis into measurable procedures.

What is Archival research?

Research method that involves using existing data.

What is Naturalistic Observation?

Observing naturally occurring behavior without intervention.

What does Experimental Research aim to establish?

Cause-and-effect relationships.

What is a Positive Correlation?

A relationship where two sets of variables increase or decrease together.

What is the key issue in Nature versus Nurture?

Debate on the influence of heredity versus environment on behavior.

In the Nature versus Nurture debate, what does 'nature' refer to?

The influence of heredity.

In the Nature versus Nurture debate, what does 'nurture' refer to?

The influence of environment on behavior.

What does Cognitive Psychology focus on?

Higher mental processes such as thinking, memory, and language.

Who is considered the father of Psychology?

Wilhelm Wundt.

What is Structuralism?

Focus on uncovering the fundamental mental components of perception and consciousness.

What does the Humanistic perspective emphasize?

Free will and personal growth.

What is the function of a Neuron?

Basic element of the nervous system that transmits information.

What are the two divisions of the Nervous System?

Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).

What does CNS stand for?

Central Nervous System.

What does PNS stand for?

Peripheral Nervous System.

What is the primary role of the Pituitary gland?

It is the 'master gland' that controls other endocrine glands.

Which gland is specifically known as the 'master gland'?

The Pituitary gland.

Why is the Pituitary gland considered the 'master gland'?

Because it controls other endocrine glands.

What happens during REM sleep?

Rapid eye movement occurs, associated with active brain function and most dreams.

What specific eye movement is characteristic of REM sleep?

Rapid eye movement.

Besides rapid eye movement, what other characteristics are associated with REM sleep?

Active brain function and most dreams.