Page 1

• Psychology Basics

  • Definition of Psychology: study of human behavior and its stimuli

  • Behavior vs. Trait: behavior is an action, while trait is an enduring characteristic

• Stimuli in Psychology

  • Definition and types: external (overt) and internal (covert) stimuli

  • Example: External stimuli - classmate; Internal stimuli - memory

• Empiricism in Psychology

  • Empirical study uses evidence and data, not just rationalism

  • Psychology is research-based and not a pseudoscience

Page 2

• Factors Influencing Human Behavior

  • Individual differences and cultural relativism

  • Example: Different reactions to the same stimulus over time

• Goals of Studying Human Behavior

  • Describe, explain, predict, and control behavior

  • Control is the most challenging goal due to ethical concerns

• ABC’s of Psychology

  • Affect (emotions), Behavior, Cognition (abstract constructs in the mind)

  • Emotions fluctuate, behavior is an action, cognition is about the mind

Page 3

• Understanding Cognition

  • Distinction between brain and mind

  • Levels of cognition: conscious and unconscious

• Self-Concept

  • Definition and components: self-image, ideal self, self-esteem

  • Importance of self-concept in personal growth and maturity

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• Self-esteem is influenced by self-idealization and acceptance of change.

  • High self-esteem achieved by setting attainable goals and embracing change.

  • Tolerating aspects of oneself that cannot be changed is normal.

• Self-concept dimensions: Physical, Spiritual, Psychological.

  • Physical self involves body processes, growth, and development.

    • Measurable aspects like BMI relate to physical self.

  • Spiritual self pertains to religion and faith.

    • Subjective nature of spirituality and religious beliefs.

  • Psychological self encompasses abstract concepts like emotions and personality.

    • Relies on narratives and measurements for understanding.

Page 5

• Psychological Theories of Development

  • Theories are sets of assumptions used to interpret societal phenomena.

  • Development of theories involves empirical research and hypothesis testing.

• Observational Learning Theory by Albert Bandura

  • Psychological self develops through imitation of others.

  • Vicarious learning involves copying behaviors based on observed consequences.

• Nature vs Nurture Theory by Francis Galton

  • Behavior influenced by biological disposition (Nature) and social factors (Nurture).

• Behaviorist Approach and Classical Conditioning Theory by Ivan Pavlov

  • Behaviorism focuses on overt stimuli and learned behaviors.

  • Classical conditioning involves association of stimuli with responses.

    • Types of stimuli: Neutral, Unconditioned, Conditioned.

    • Examples of stimuli association and responses in classical conditioning.

Page 6

• Behaviorist Approach emphasizes overt stimuli as the source of behavior.