psych chunk 1 - foundations of psychology

Empirical Research

Knowledge gained through direct observation and measurement, not opinions or intuition.

Scientific Method

question, hypothesis, test, analyze, and conclude.

Basic Research

Research that expands knowledge for the sake of curiosity, without immediate practical use.

Applied Research

Research that uses psychological principles to solve practical, real-world problems.

Definition of Psychology

The scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

Goal of Research

To keep research systematic and objective so findings are reliable.

Nature vs. Nurture

Debate on whether behavior is determined by genetics (nature) or shaped by experience and environment (nurture).

Dualism

The belief that the mind and body are separate entities; mind is non-physical.

Monism

The belief that the mind and body are connected; mental activity arises from physical brain processes.

Psychology's Aim

To describe, explain, predict, and control behavior.

Hypothesis

A specific testable prediction made during the scientific method process.

Analyze Results

The step in the scientific method where patterns are observed and statistics are used.

Conclude

The final step in the scientific method, confirming or adjusting the initial hypothesis.

Example of Basic Research

Studying how memory works in the brain without immediate application.

Example of Applied Research

Creating therapy techniques to treat anxiety problems.

Observation

A method in the scientific method involving watching and recording behaviors.

Reliable Findings

Results that are consistent and accurate due to a systematic approach in research.