structuralism

aimed to understand the basic elements of consciousness, such as sensations and feelings, through the method of controlled introspection.

functionalism

a school of thought, originating in the late 19th century with figures like William James, that focuses on the purpose and function of mental processes and behaviors rather than their basic structure, emphasizing how they help individuals adapt to their environment.

Psychoanalysis

a psychological theory and method of treatment that aims to understand and resolve unconscious conflicts that may be causing mental health issues. 

behavorism

a branch of psychology founded by John B. Watson that focuses on observable behaviors and their relationship to environmental stimuli, rather than internal mental states like thoughts or feelings.

Introspection

a psychological process where individuals examine their own thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

classical conditioning

a basic form of associative learning, popularized by Ivan Pavlov, where an automatic response to one stimulus becomes associated with a new, previously neutral stimulus, causing the new stimulus to eventually trigger the same response.

Unconscious

the Freudian concept of an inaccessible reservoir of hidden thoughts, memories, and desires that influence behavior

Nature vs Nurture

the ongoing discussion about the relative influence of genetics (nature) and environmental factors (nurture) on human traits, behaviors, and development. 

dendrites

a branched, tree-like extension of a neuron that receives signals (neurotransmitters) from other neurons and conducts them toward the neuron's cell body

Genes

fundamental units of heredity that carry genetic information passed from parents to offspring.

chromosome

microscopic, thread-like structure within a cell's nucleus that contains DNA and proteins, carrying the genetic information that influences psychological traits and behaviors.

Neuron

the basic functional unit of the nervous system, a specialized cell that transmits information through electrical and chemical signals.

Neurotransmitter

chemical messengers that transmit signals between neurons (nerve cells) and other target cells, such as muscle cells and glands. 

Reflex

an involuntary, automatic response to a specific stimulus.

Axon

a long, slender projection of a neuron that transmits electrical impulses away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands. 

myelin

a fatty, insulating layer that surrounds the axons (nerve fibers) of neurons in the central and peripheral nervous systems.