AP Psychology: Unit 1 Vocabulary Terms

A set of flashcards covering key terms and concepts in Unit 1 of Psychology.

Psychology

The study of how people think, feel, and act.

Structuralism

Studying the mind by asking people what they feel or sense.

Functionalism

Focused on how thoughts and behaviors help us survive and adapt.

Behaviorism

Focused on learning through rewards, punishments, and observation.

Humanistic Psychology

Focused on personal growth and becoming the best version of yourself.

Cognitive Psychology

The study of how we think, remember, learn, and solve problems.

Biopsychosocial Approach

Examines behavior through the lens of biology, thoughts, and society.

Nature vs. Nurture

The debate over whether our traits are determined by genes or life experiences.

Biological Perspective

The focus on the brain, genetics, and body.

Evolutionary Perspective

Behaviors that helped humans survive are passed down.

Psychodynamic Perspective

Behavior is driven by unconscious thoughts and childhood memories.

Behavioral Perspective

Behavior is learned through rewards and punishments.

Cognitive Perspective

Focuses on how we think and process information.

Social-Cultural Perspective

Focuses on how culture and society influence behavior.

Basic Research

Research done to learn more, not to fix problems.

Applied Research

Research done to solve practical problems.

Psychometrics

Measuring mental abilities like IQ and personality.

I/O Psychology

Studying people at work to improve performance and happiness.

Human Factors Psychology

Making things easier and safer to use.

Counseling Psychology

Helps people with everyday problems.

Clinical Psychology

Treats serious mental disorders.

Psychiatry

A medical doctor who prescribes medication to treat mental disorders.

Positive Psychology

Studies happiness, strengths, and what makes life worth living.

Community Psychology

Focuses on improving mental health and safety for communities.