PSYCH Ch 1-2

psychology

The scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

4 goals of psychology

Describe, explain, predict, and change/control behavior.

describe

Observe and identify what is happening.

explain

Figure out why something happens.

William Wundt

The founder of the first psychology laboratory.

structuralism

studying the basic parts of the mind

Edward Titchener

associated with structuralism

functionalism

Studying how the mind and behavior help people adapt.

William James

associated with functionalism

behaviorism

The study of observable behavior.

John Watson and B.F. Skinner.

important behaviorists

psychodynamic perspective

Behavior is influenced by unconscious thoughts and experiences

Sigmund Freud

most associated with psychodynamic theory

humanistic psychology

Focuses on personal growth and reaching your potential

Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow.

two major humanistic psychologists

nature-nurture issue

Whether behavior comes more from genetics or environment.

Psychologist

study/treat behavior and mental processes

psychiatrist

medical doctors who can prescribe medication

empirical evidence

Evidence based on observation or measurement.

operational definition

A precise description of how a variable will be measured.

naturalistic observation

Watching behavior in its normal environment.

case study

an in-depth study of one person or group

correlation coefficient

A number showing the strength and direction of a relationship.