psych exam 3

Why do some people think psychology is a humanity? Is it? Explain.

Some people think psychology is a humanity because it deals with human experience, emotions, and behaviors, which are often subjects of philosophical inquiry and cultural studies. However, psychology is not solely a humanity because it also involves empirical research methods, scientific analysis, and testing hypotheses.

Why do some people think psychology is a social science? Is it? Explain

Psychology is often viewed as a social science because it explores human behavior within social contexts, like interactions, societal influences, and group dynamics. It is a social science when it investigates behaviors in terms of social patterns, societal influences, and the social environment, but it is also a natural science when it focuses on biological and neurological processes.

Why do some people think psychology is a natural science? Is it? Explain

Some people view psychology as a natural science because it often uses scientific methods and empirical data to study the brain, cognition, and behaviors, which are rooted in biological and physical processes. It is considered a natural science when it investigates mental and neural mechanisms and relies on experimentation and data analysis.

Some people call psychology a bridge science. Why?

Psychology is called a "bridge science" because it connects the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. It integrates both qualitative and quantitative methods to study the mind and behavior from diverse perspectives, offering a link between human experience and scientific inquiry.

What makes the psychology major unique?

The psychology major is unique because it blends both scientific and humanistic approaches to understanding behavior, using methods from biology, social science, and humanities. It offers insights into both the brain’s processes and the influences of social, cultural, and personal factors.

What is the difference between aligned and misaligned students? What can you do to become better aligned?

Aligned students have academic goals and career interests that are congruent with their strengths, interests, and the expectations of their field. Misaligned students might pursue paths that don't align with their strengths or interests, which can result in a lack of fulfillment. To become better aligned, students can seek mentorship, explore various areas of psychology through internships or research, and evaluate their strengths and passions to tailor their educational experience

How long does it typically take to earn an associate degree? A bachelor’s degree? A master’s degree? A doctoral degree?

An associate degree typically takes 2 years, a bachelor’s degree usually takes 4 years, a master’s degree takes about 2 years beyond a bachelor’s, and a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or PsyD) generally takes 4-7 years beyond a bachelor’s, depending on the program.

What do social psychologists study? What types of entry-level jobs might appeal to someone who likes social psychology?

Social psychologists study how individuals' thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by social situations and the presence of others. Entry-level jobs could include positions in marketing, human resources, or roles in public relations and organizational behavior research.

What do developmental psychologists study? What types of entry-level jobs might appeal to someone who likes developmental psychology?

Developmental psychologists study the physical, cognitive, and social changes that occur throughout the lifespan. Entry-level jobs could include roles in child development research, educational consulting, or working in pediatric or family-focused counseling.

What do neuroscientists study? What types of entry-level jobs might appeal to someone who likes neuroscience?

Neuroscientists study the structure and function of the brain and nervous system. Entry-level jobs might include research assistant roles in neuroscience labs, positions in pharmaceutical companies, or jobs in mental health clinics focusing on neuropsychology.

What do cognitive psychologists study? What types of entry-level jobs might appeal to someone who likes cognitive psychology?

Cognitive psychologists study mental processes such as perception, memory, and problem-solving. Entry-level jobs could include roles in human-computer interaction, educational technology, or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) assistance.

What do industrial/organizational (I/O) psychologists study? What types of entry-level jobs might appeal to someone who likes I/O psychology?

I/O psychologists study human behavior in organizational and workplace settings. Entry-level jobs might include positions in human resources, talent acquisition, employee training, or organizational development.

What types of jobs are available for someone who is interested in clinical or counseling psychology?

Jobs in clinical or counseling psychology can include roles as therapists, counselors, mental health professionals in hospitals or private practice, and crisis intervention specialists. These positions typically require a graduate degree and licensure.

What are the most likely jobs for psych majors?

Common jobs for psychology majors include roles in human resources, healthcare settings (e.g., mental health technicians, case management), research, marketing, customer service, and educational settings (e.g., school counselors or education coordinators).

What do you need to do to become a psychiatrist? A clinical psychologist? A counselor? How do the jobs and the requisite educational programs differ?

To become a psychiatrist, you need a medical degree (MD) followed by a residency in psychiatry. To become a clinical psychologist, you typically need a PhD or PsyD in psychology and must complete internships and postdoctoral training. Counselors typically need a master’s degree in counseling or clinical psychology. Psychiatrists focus on medication management, clinical psychologists on therapy and psychological assessments, and counselors on providing therapeutic support in various settings.

What is the difference between a clinical assistant, a counselor, a social worker, and an occupational therapist? How do the respective educational programs differ?

Clinical assistants support healthcare professionals in mental health settings. Counselors provide therapy and support, typically requiring a master’s degree in counseling. Social workers assist with social and emotional challenges, requiring a master's in social work (MSW). Occupational therapists help patients develop the skills necessary for daily living, requiring a master's degree in occupational therapy

How would you describe a cognitive psychologist or a cognitive and affective neuroscientist? What jobs are available with an advanced degree in cognitive psychology or cognitive and affective neuropsychology?

• Cognitive psychologists study mental processes like memory and learning. Cognitive and affective neuroscientists focus on how brain activity influences emotions and cognition. Jobs with an advanced degree could include research positions, teaching, or working in neuropsychological assessment in clinical settings.

What jobs are available with an advanced degree in developmental psychology? Social psychology? I/O psychology?

Advanced degrees in developmental psychology might lead to roles in child development, educational research, or therapy. Social psychology can lead to jobs in public policy, research, or marketing. I/O psychology can lead to organizational consulting, HR, or leadership development roles.

Job search – social media, job openings

Social media platforms like LinkedIn, professional psychology associations, and job boards are key tools for job searches, offering networking opportunities, job postings, and professional development.

What are the different parts of a resume?

• A resume typically includes the following sections: contact information, objective statement, education, experience, skills, certifications, and references.

What are the different types of resumes?

• The three main types of resumes are chronological, functional, and combination (or hybrid). A chronological resume lists experiences in reverse chronological order, a functional resume focuses on skills and abilities, and a combination resume blends both.

How would you prepare a LinkedIn profile?

To prepare a LinkedIn profile, include a professional photo, a compelling headline, a summary of your skills and goals, detailed experience, relevant education, and skills endorsements. It’s also helpful to engage with content and connect with professionals in your field.

How would you solicit references?

• When soliciting references, ask individuals who are familiar with your work ethic and qualifications (e.g., professors, supervisors). Request their permission before listing them and provide them with context about the job you’re applying for.

What is a cover letter?

• A cover letter is a personalized document that accompanies your resume. It introduces you to the employer, highlights your relevant experience, and explains why you’re interested in the job and how your qualifications match the role.

How to ace job interviews (before and during)?

• Before an interview, research the company, review the job description, and prepare for common interview questions. During the interview, be professional, listen carefully, and provide clear examples of your skills and experience.

What should you do when you’re offered a job?

• When offered a job, review the offer carefully, including salary, benefits, and job responsibilities. If everything is acceptable, formally accept the offer in writing and prepare for your new role.

What is pseudoscience? Does it rely on the principles and components of science we’ve discussed in the course?

Pseudoscience refers to beliefs or practices that claim to be scientific but lack empirical evidence and cannot be tested or falsified. It does not adhere to the scientific method, nor does it rely on systematic experimentation or critical peer review.

What is self-help? What are the benefits of self-help? The risk?

Self-help refers to efforts by individuals to improve their mental or emotional well-being, often through books, online resources, or personal strategies. The benefits include increased self-awareness, empowerment, and personal growth. However, risks include misinformation, lack of professional guidance, and the potential to rely on unproven methods.

How does pseudoscience gain credibility?

Pseudoscience often gains credibility by using scientific-sounding terms, making vague claims that are hard to disprove, relying on anecdotal evidence, and appealing to emotional desires or confirmation biases. It can also gain credibility through repetition in the media or by celebrities endorsing it.

How are “experiments” described to support pseudoscientific products different from scientific experiments?

Pseudoscientific experiments often lack control groups, randomization, and replication. Results are presented selectively, and methodology is not rigorously defined or transparent. In contrast, scientific experiments are carefully designed to minimize bias, are reproducible, and are open to peer review.

How does pseudoscience take advantage of illusions of success?

Pseudoscience often highlights successful anecdotal cases and ignores failures, creating a false impression that its methods always work. This selective reporting feeds into the illusion that the claims are more universally applicable than they really are.

How does pseudoscience take advantage of the limitations of our personal beliefs to profit?

Pseudoscience often exploits common cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias, where individuals favor information that supports their existing beliefs. It preys on people's desires for quick fixes or simple answers, leading them to accept pseudoscientific ideas without critical evaluation.

What are the warning signs? for pseudoscience

Warning signs of pseudoscience include lack of empirical evidence, reliance on anecdotal experiences, vague and untestable claims, absence of peer review, and claims of miraculous results that seem too good to be true.

From the perspective of a scientific psychologist, is pseudoscience ethical? If not, why?

• From a scientific perspective, pseudoscience is unethical because it can mislead people, waste their time and money, and sometimes cause harm by promoting ineffective or harmful treatments. It undermines scientific integrity and public trust in genuine research.

Who are program leaders? Program participants?

• Program leaders are individuals who plan, direct, and oversee programs, often in a helping or therapeutic capacity, such as therapists, counselors, or social workers. Program participants are the individuals receiving help, guidance, or therapy in these programs.

What are the characteristics of the helping relationship?

• The helping relationship is characterized by empathy, trust, respect, confidentiality, and a focus on the well-being of the individual receiving help. It involves active listening, non-judgmental support, and the collaboration between the helper and the participant to achieve positive outcomes.

What are codes of conduct and why do organizations use them?

• Codes of conduct are formalized guidelines or rules that define acceptable behavior for professionals within a specific field. Organizations use them to ensure ethical practices, maintain professional standards, and protect the well-being of both service providers and recipients.

What are the fundamental helping principles?

• The fundamental helping principles include respect for individuals' autonomy, promoting their well-being, maintaining confidentiality, ensuring informed consent, and delivering services competently and compassionately.

What does respect for rights and dignity include?

• Respect for rights and dignity involves treating individuals with fairness, recognizing their personal values and beliefs, and ensuring that their human rights are upheld, including privacy and freedom from discrimination.

What does beneficence and nonmaleficence include?

• Beneficence refers to the obligation to promote the well-being of others and to do good, while nonmaleficence refers to the obligation to do no harm. Together, they form the ethical principle of providing help that is both beneficial and not harmful.

What does fidelity and responsibility include?

• Fidelity and responsibility refer to the ethical duty to build trust through reliable actions, maintain professional integrity, and be accountable for one's behavior. It also involves acting in the best interest of those served and providing accurate and honest information.

What does integrity include? What do researchers need to do if they use deception?

• Integrity refers to being honest and transparent, avoiding misrepresentation or manipulation of data, and following ethical guidelines in all professional activities. If researchers use deception, they must ensure that it is justified by the study's value, and participants must be debriefed afterward to explain the deception.

What does justice include?

• Justice involves ensuring fairness in the distribution of resources, services, and opportunities. In the context of helping professions, it also means that services should be accessible and provided equitably to all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.

What are the tools for ethical treatment?

• Tools for ethical treatment include clear guidelines for informed consent, confidentiality protocols, ethical codes of conduct, and regular supervision and training for professionals. These tools help ensure that clients receive care that is aligned with ethical standards.

What does the "informed" part of "informed consent" mean? What does the "consent" part mean?

• The "informed" part refers to providing individuals with all necessary information to make an educated decision about whether to participate in a treatment or study. The "consent" part refers to the individual's voluntary agreement to participate, based on that understanding.

What are the benefits of informed consent?

• Informed consent ensures that individuals are fully aware of the risks, benefits, and nature of their participation in a program or study. It promotes autonomy, protects participants’ rights, and fosters trust between professionals and clients.

Why does the lesson narrator wonder if informed consent is enough?

• The lesson narrator may wonder if informed consent is enough because it doesn’t always account for power imbalances or subtle coercion. Some individuals may not fully comprehend all the information presented or may feel pressured to agree due to their circumstances.

What are the expectations of confidentiality and why are they essential for the helping relationship?

• Confidentiality involves keeping personal information shared by clients private, except in cases where disclosure is legally required (e.g., danger to self or others). It is essential to build trust and ensure that individuals feel safe and comfortable sharing sensitive information.

What is duty to warn?

• Duty to warn refers to the ethical and legal obligation of professionals to warn individuals or authorities if a client poses a threat to themselves or others. This may involve disclosing information that would otherwise be confidential.

Ethically, why is it important to avoid conflicts of interest?

• Avoiding conflicts of interest is crucial because it ensures that professionals' decisions are made in the best interest of their clients rather than being influenced by personal or financial gain. Conflicts of interest can compromise the integrity of the helping relationship and erode trust.

Why is it important to maintain program quality? What does that involve?

• Maintaining program quality is important to ensure that clients receive effective, evidence-based services that meet their needs. It involves regular evaluation, updating of practices, staff training, and adherence to ethical standards.

18. Why is it important to maintain program quality? What does that involve?

• Maintaining program quality is crucial to ensure that clients receive high-quality services that are effective and meet their needs. It involves regular evaluation and feedback, staff training, adherence to evidence-based practices, and continuous improvement to ensure the program is meeting its goals and providing value.