The Science of Psychology - Introduction to Psychology (Lecture Flashcards)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture notes.

Psychology

The scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

Behavior

Observable actions of an organism that can be seen or measured.

Mental processes

Internal, covert thoughts, feelings, and cognitive processes not directly observable.

Overt

Behaviors that are directly observable.

Covert

Mental processes that are hidden or not directly observable.

Description

Observing and describing behavior and mental processes as they occur.

Explanation

Understanding why behaviors and mental processes occur.

Prediction

Forecasting how people will think, feel, or behave in future situations.

Control

Using psychological knowledge to influence or change behavior and mental processes.

Observation (scientific method)

Systematic noting of events to collect data.

Theory

A well-supported explanation that generates testable hypotheses.

Hypothesis

A testable statement about the relationship between variables.

Research

Systematic investigation using scientific methods to study psychological phenomena.

Inductive reasoning

Reasoning from specific observations to general conclusions.

Deductive reasoning

Reasoning from general principles to specific predictions.

Case study

In-depth examination of a single person or a small group.

Naturalistic observation

Observing behavior in a natural environment without manipulation.

Surveys

Questionnaires or interviews used to collect data from many people.

Structuralism

School that analyzes conscious experience by breaking it into basic components.

Functionalism

School that studies mental processes by their function and practical purpose.

Wilhelm Wundt

Founder of psychology as a science; emphasized conscious experience and objective introspection.

Objective introspection

Systematic, unbiased reporting of one's own conscious experiences.

Edward Titchener

Student of Wundt; formalized structuralism.

William James

Proponent of functionalism; often called the father of American psychology.

Trait theories

Personality theories focusing on stable traits that influence behavior.

Psychodynamic theories

Personality theories emphasizing unconscious conflicts and inner dynamics.

Humanistic theories

Personality theories emphasizing private experience and personal growth.

Social-Cognitive theories

Personality theories emphasizing socialization, expectations, and mental processes.

Psychometrician

Professional who designs, administers, and interprets psychological tests.

Psychologist (RPsy)

Master’s-level professional who assesses, diagnoses, and treats; conducts research and therapy.

Psychiatrist

Medical doctor who diagnoses and treats mental health disorders and can prescribe medication.

Ethics in research

Standards that protect participants and ensure integrity in psychological research.

Psyche

Greek word for soul or mind.

Logos

Greek word meaning word, reason, or study.

Dualism

Philosophical view that mind and body are distinct entities.

Innate ideas

Plato’s belief that some knowledge is inborn.

Nutritive soul

Aristotle’s part of the soul responsible for growth and reproduction.

Sensitive soul

Aristotle’s part of the soul responsible for sensation and movement.

Rational soul

Aristotle’s part of the soul responsible for reasoning.

Big Five Personality Test

A standardized questionnaire used to assess major personality traits.

Overt

Behaviors that are directly observable.

Covert

Mental processes that are hidden or not directly observable.