Untitled Flashcards Set

What is the definition of psychology?

Psychology is the science of behavior and mental processes.

What is critical thinking?

Critical thinking is the ability to analyze and evaluate information to make reasoned judgments.

What is the empirical method?

The empirical method is a way of gaining knowledge based on direct and indirect observation or experience.

Who is Wilhelm Wundt?

Wilhelm Wundt is considered the father of modern psychology and established the first psychology laboratory.

Who is William James?

William James was a philosopher and psychologist who is known for his contributions to functionalism.

What is the difference between structuralism and functionalism?

Structuralism focuses on the structure of the mind, while functionalism emphasizes the function of mental processes.

What does the biological/neuroscience approach emphasize?

The biological/neuroscience approach emphasizes the influence of biology on behavior, including brain processes.

What is a variable?

A variable is any factor or condition that can change in an experiment.

What is the difference between a theory and a hypothesis?

A theory is a broad explanation, while a hypothesis is a specific testable prediction; hypotheses come first.

What is an operational definition?

An operational definition specifies how a variable will be measured or defined in a study.

Define descriptive research.

Descriptive research involves observing and describing the behavior of a subject without manipulating any variables.

What is correlational research?

Correlational research examines the relationship between two or more variables.

What is an experiment?

An experiment is a research method where the researcher manipulates one variable to determine its effect on another.

What does random assignment mean?

Random assignment means that participants are assigned to different groups in an experiment by chance.

What is the difference between independent and dependent variables?

Independent variables are manipulated by the researcher, while dependent variables are measured in response.

What is a placebo?

A placebo is a substance with no therapeutic effect used as a control in experiments.

What is the function of the cerebellum?

The cerebellum coordinates voluntary movements and balance.

What is the function of the limbic system?

The limbic system is involved in emotion, memory, and behavior.

What is the difference between sensation and perception?

Sensation is the detection of stimuli, while perception is the interpretation of those stimuli.

What is the absolute threshold?

The absolute threshold is the minimum level of stimulus intensity needed for detection.

What is the visual cortex?

The visual cortex is the part of the brain responsible for processing visual information.

What is meditation?

Meditation is a practice that involves focused attention and awareness, often for relaxation and mental clarity.

What is behaviorism?

Behaviorism is the theory that behavior is learned and can be understood through observable actions.

What is operant conditioning?

Operant conditioning is a learning process through which the strength of a behavior is modified by reinforcement or punishment.

Who is B.F. Skinner?

B.F. Skinner was a psychologist known for his research on operant conditioning.

What is learned helplessness?

Learned helplessness is a psychological condition where a person feels unable to control their environment after repeated failures.