Unit 1 AP Psychology

Dualism

The view that the mind and body both exist as separate entities

Monism

The belief that the mind and the brain are the same thing

Nature-Nurture Controversy

Debate about whether people’s intelligence, behavior, and other characteristics are influenced by genetics or environment

Structuralism

A theory in psychology that attempts to understand human consciousness through its makeup

Functionalism

A theory in psychology that attempts to understand human consciousness through its physical functions

Biopsychosocial Model

A model showing that biological, psychological, and social factors all play a role in health and disease

Behavioral Approach

Suggests that the key to understanding behavior is observable behavior rather than emotions

Psychodynamic Approach

An approach to psychology that emphasizes the study of psychological forces underlying human behavior, feelings, and emotions

Sociocultural Approach

An approach used to understand human behavior through analysis of one’s culture

Eclectic

A type of psychotherapy that uses multiple approaches to fit the client’s needs

Clinical Psychologist

Evaluate and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders

Counseling Psychologist

Help people adapt to change or make changes in their lifestyle

Developmental Psychologist

Study psychological development throughout the lifespan

Educational Psychologist

Focus on how effective teaching and learning take place

Engineering Psychologist

Promote the development and application of psychology to improve technology, consumer products, etc.

Forensic Psychologist

Apply psychological principles to legal issues

Health psychologist

Concentrate on biological, psychological, and social factors involved in health and illness

Industrial/Organizational Psychologist

Aim to improve productivity and the quality of work life by applying psychological principles and methods to the workplace

Neuropsychologist

Explore the relationships between the brain/nervous systems and behavior

Personality Psychologist

Focus on aspects of an individual such as traits, attitudes, and goals

Psychometricians

Focus on methods for acquiring and analyzing psychological data

Rehabilitation Psychologist

Help clients with mental retardation, developmental disabilities, and disabilities resulting from stroke or other accidents

School Psychologist

Assess and counsel students, consult with educators and parents, and perform behavioral intervention (when needed)

Social Psychologist

Focus on how a person’s mental life and behaviors are shaped by interactions with other people

Sports Psychologist

Help athletes refine their focus on competition goals, increase motivation, and deal with anxiety and fear of failure