Intro to Psychology & Psychological Research

These flashcards cover key concepts and historical developments in psychology, as well as important methodologies and perspectives within the field.

What is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes known as?

Psychology.

What did John Locke introduce in 1690 regarding human development?

The idea of tabula rasa (the mind as a blank slate).

What was the significance of Wilhelm Wundt's work in 1879?

He inaugurated the first psychology laboratory in Leipzig, Germany.

What are the four temperaments of personality proposed by Hippocrates?

Sanguine, choleric, melancholic, and phlegmatic.

How does psychodynamic perspective explain behavior?

It springs from unconscious drives and conflicts.

What is the focus of positive psychology?

The scientific study of human functioning, aiming to promote strengths and virtues.

What do the terms 'nature' and 'nurture' refer to in psychology?

Nature refers to inherited characteristics, while nurture refers to environmental factors.

What is the definition of a hypothesis in psychological research?

A testable prediction based on a theory.

What is the purpose of random assignment in experiments?

To minimize preexisting differences between experimental and control groups.

What technique describes observing and recording behavior in a natural environment?

Naturalistic observation.

What is the significance of the correlation coefficient?

It expresses the strength and direction of a relationship between two variables.

What does a double-blind procedure in experiments involve?

Both the participants and researchers are unaware of who receives treatment or placebo.

What do case studies in psychology examine?

One individual or group in depth.

What is the difference between the experimental group and the control group?

The experimental group is exposed to the treatment, while the control group is not.

What does the term 'placebo effect' refer to?

Results caused by expectations alone.

What are the key components of the scientific method in psychology?

Formulating theories, developing hypotheses, conducting experiments, and analyzing data.

What is meant by 'operational definition' in psychological research?

A clear statement of how variables are measured or defined.

What does the eclectic approach in psychology focus on?

Using different parts of various perspectives to understand behavior.

Which psychologist published a major work on client-centered therapy in 1951?

Carl Rogers.

What is the goal of using descriptive techniques in research?

To observe and record behavior without manipulation.