Unit 0: Introduction & Science Practices

Biological Perspective

Focuses on genetic makeup to identify issues.

Psychodynamic Perspective

Investigates unconscious states and the impact of early childhood experiences.

Cognitive Perspective

Emphasizes understanding a person's thinking processes.

Behavioral Perspective

Centers on understanding behavior through interactions with the environment.

Humanistic Perspective

Believes in the potential for growth in supportive environments.

Evolutionary Perspective

Suggests adaptation for reproduction and survival.

Socio-Cultural Perspective

Highlights the significance of cultural context in understanding individuals.

Operational Definitions

Clear description of variables for measurement.

Generalizability

Extent to which findings apply to broader populations.

Validity

Accuracy of the measurements.

Correlations

Relationship between variables.

Positive Correlation

As one variable increases, so does the other.

Negative Correlation

As one variable increases, the other decreases.

Naturalistic Observation

Watching behavior in natural settings.

Case Study

In-depth analysis of an individual or group.

Survey

Collecting data through questionnaires.

Correlational Studies

Examining relationships between variables.

Meta-Analysis

Analyzing results from multiple studies.

Independent Variable

Manipulated variable in an experiment.

Dependent Variable

Observed outcome in an experiment.

Random Assignment

Randomly assigning participants to groups.

Control Group

Group not receiving treatment for comparison.

Informed Consent

Participants must be aware of their involvement.

Confidentiality

Assurance of privacy.

Debriefing

Informing participants about the study's purpose after participation.

Stability vs Change

Are personality traits lifelong or do they change?

Nature vs Nurture

The influence of genetics versus environment.

Continuity vs Stage

Development as gradual vs. distinct stages.

Cross-Sectional Research

Comparing different age groups at one point in time.

Longitudinal Research

Studying the same group over a period of time.

Teratogens

Harmful substances affecting fetal development.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Impact of alcohol consumption during pregnancy on fetal development.

Maturation

Natural growth processes.

Fine Motor Skills

Development of small muscle movements.

Gross Motor Skills

Development of large muscle movements.

Infant Reflexes

Automatic responses present at birth.

Visual Cliff

Study on infant perception of depth.

Critical Periods

Key times for development where certain skills must be acquired.

Language Stages: Cooing, Babbling, One-word, Telegraphic Speech

Progression of language development in infants.

Phonemes

Basic units of sound.

Morphemes

Basic units of meaning.

Grammar

Understanding syntax vs. semantics.

Language Errors

Common mistakes like overgeneralization.

Schemas

Cognitive organization concepts.

Assimilation

Adapting to new information by incorporating it into existing schemas.

Accommodation

Changing schemas to fit new information.

Sensorimotor Stage

First stage of Piaget’s cognitive development focused on sensory and motor exploration.

Preoperational Stage

Second stage of Piaget's theory with symbolic thinking and egocentrism.

Concrete Operational Stage

Third stage where logical thinking develops involving concrete objects.

Formal Operational Stage

Final stage of Piaget's theory involving abstract and hypothetical thinking.

Ecological Systems Theory

Influence of social environments on development.

Attachment Theory

The importance of nurturing in attachment development.

Strange Situation

Assessment of attachment patterns in children.

Temperament

Different personality traits observable early in life.

Parenting Styles

Styles including authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and neglectful.

Gender Identity

Understanding gender differences and identity.

Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development

Eight stages and their associated virtues.

Puberty

Physical changes during adolescence.

Primary Sex Characteristics

Development of the reproductive system.

Secondary Sex Characteristics

Development of traits not directly involved in reproduction.

Menarche

Onset of menstruation.

Spermarche

Onset of sperm production.

Synaptic Pruning

The elimination of excess neurons.

Menopause

Changes in women’s reproductive system.

Mobility & Flexibility

Aging effects on physical capabilities.

Reaction Time & Sensory Changes

Decline in reaction times and sensory function in aging adults.

Crystallized Intelligence

Knowledge accumulated over time.

Fluid Intelligence

Problem-solving abilities.

Neurocognitive Disorders

Impact of conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease on cognitive functions.