History of Psychology

psychology

The scientific study of behavior and the mind, and its biological bases.

mind-body problem

The philosophical question of whether the mind and body are separate (dualism) or unified (monism).

dualism

The belief that mind and body are distinct entities (Descartes).

monism

The belief that mind and body are one and the same (Hobbes).

introspection

Wundt’s method of observing and reporting moment-to-moment mental experiences.

stream of consciousness

James’s metaphor for consciousness as a continuous, flowing experience.

unconscious mind

Freud’s concept of mental processes hidden beneath conscious awareness, like an iceberg.

Socrates, Plato, Aristotle

Asked foundational questions about human nature, morality, and knowledge.

Galen

Proposed universal personality types.

Fechner

Explored the link between physical stimuli and subjective experience.

Charcot

Investigated connections between physical illness and mental states.

Biological Perspective

Studies the brain, nervous system, hormones, and genetics to understand behavior and mental processes; Investigates biological aspects of human nature.

Evolutionary Perspective

Examines how psychological traits evolved to aid survival and reproduction.

Sociocultural Perspective

Investigates how culture, social norms, and context shape behavior and mental processes.

Behaviorism

Focuses on observable behavior and its relationship with environmental stimuli, rewards, and punishments.

Cognitive Perspective

Studies internal mental processes like memory, perception, language, and problem-solving; Explores mental processes such as thinking, memory, and language.

Humanistic Perspective

Emphasizes personal growth, free will, and self-actualization; includes Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

Psychoanalytic Perspective

Focuses on unconscious motives, early childhood experiences, defense mechanisms, and dream analysis.

Development Psychology

Studies how people change across the lifespan.

Social Psychology

Examines how individuals are influenced by others.

Clinical Psychology

Focuses on diagnosing and treating mental disorders.

Positive Psychology

Promotes well-being and prevention of illness.

Health Psychology

Studies how behavior and healthcare affect physical health.

Educational Psychology

Investigates learning processes across the lifespan.

School Psychology

Supports students with learning and behavioral challenges.

Counseling Psychology

Enhances wellness in general and educational settings.

Forensic Psychology

Applies psychology to legal and criminal justice contexts.

Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Studies workplace behavior and organizational dynamics.