approaches key words (psychology)

Behaviourist approach

The approach that explains behaviour through learning from the environment, particularly classical and operant conditioning. It focuses on observable behaviour rather than unobservable mental processes.

Classical conditioning

Learning through association between two stimuli. A previously neutral stimulus becomes associated with an unconditioned stimulus and eventually produces a conditioned response.

Pavlov — dogs learned to associate a bell with food and began salivating to the bell.

Operant conditioning

Learning through the consequences of behaviour. Reinforcement increases the likelihood of behaviour, while punishment decreases it.

Skinner — rats learned to press a lever to obtain food or avoid an unpleasant stimulus.

Social learning theory (SLT)

The theory that people learn behaviour by observing and imitating others, particularly role models. Learning is influenced by identification, vicarious reinforcement and mediational processes.

Bandura - children who observed an aggressive adult model were more likely to imitate aggressive behaviour towards a Bobo doll.

Cognitive approach

The approach that studies internal mental processes, such as memory, perception and thinking.

Psychodynamic approach

Freud's approach, which emphasises the unconscious mind, childhood experiences and conflicts between different parts of the personality.

The tripartite personality

Freud's model of personality consists of the id (instinctive drives), ego (reality-based mediator) and superego (internalised moral standards). Conflict between them can influence behaviour.

Defence mechanisms

Unconscious strategies used by the ego to reduce anxiety caused by psychological conflict. Examples include repression, denial and displacement.

Humanistic approach

An approach that emphasises free will, personal growth and the individual's subjective experience. It views people as capable of making choices and developing their potential.

Free will and determinism

Free will is the view that people can choose their behaviour. Determinism is the view that behaviour is caused by factors outside conscious control, such as biology or past experiences.

Reductionism and holism

Reductionism explains complex behaviour by breaking it down into simpler components, such as genes or conditioning. Holism explains behaviour by considering the whole person or the interaction of multiple influences.