Psych 101 Exam 1

Defining Psychology

  • Psychology: The scientific study of mental processes and behavior.

  • Mental Processes & Behavior: Includes feelings, thoughts, motives, and body language (e.g., foot shakes, jaw tightening).

History of Psychology

Roots in Philosophy

  • Wilhelm Wundt: Known as the "Father of Psychology", first to study the structures of the mind and founder of structuralism (born in Leipzig, Germany).

  • Structuralism: Focuses on the structures of the mind.

  • Functionalism: Focuses on how the mind functions, introduced by William James, the Father of Psychology in the U.S.

Approaches to Psychology

A. Biological

  • Emphasizes study of the body, especially the brain and nervous systems.

  • Neuroscience: A branch of science that studies biological processes.

B. Behavioral

  • Focuses on the scientific study of observable behavior.

  • Key figures: B.F. Skinner, John Watson.

C. Psychodynamic

  • Examines the unconscious and early childhood experiences.

  • Sigmund Freud: The Father of Psychodynamics.

D. Humanistic

  • Emphasizes human potential, growth, and self-actualization.

  • Key figure: Carl Rodgers.

E. Cognitive

  • Involves thoughts, problem solving, and mental processes.

  • Concept: "Irrational thoughts create irrational behavior" (e.g., anxiety about weight can lead to unhealthy eating).

  • Notable quote by Mahatma Gandhi: "Your beliefs become your thoughts. Your thoughts become your words. Your words become your actions. Your actions become your habits. Your habits become your values. Your values become your destiny."

F. Evolutionary

  • Examines psychological adaptation, "survival of the fittest," and reproduction.

G. Sociocultural

  • Studies social and cultural factors influencing psychology.

  • Socio: Related to social aspects.

  • Cultural: Related to cultural factors.

H. Positive Psychology

  • Focuses on positive human aspects, wellness, and gratitude.

Careers in Psychology

  • Psychologist (PhD): Expert trained in psychology.

  • Psychiatrist (MD): Medical doctor specialized in mental health.

  • Counseling

  • Clinical Psychology

Areas of Specialization

  • Physiological/Neuroscience

  • Sensation and Perception

  • Learning

  • Cognitive

  • Developmental

  • Motivation and Emotion

  • Women and Gender

  • Personality

  • Social

  • Industrial/Organizational

  • Clinical/Counseling: (Assessment, diagnosis, treatment vs. everyday problem solving)

  • Health

  • Community

  • School/Educational

  • Environmental

  • Forensic

  • Sport

  • Cross-Cultural

Science of Psychology, Health, and Wellness

  • Mind Impacts Body: Exploring the bidirectional relationship between mental and physical health.

  • Body Impacts Mind: Understanding how physical states can affect mental health.

Related Study

  • Attachment Theory: Harlow's study on monkeys regarding food vs. security.