Intro to psych

Introduction to Gestalt Psychology

• Gestalt Theory: Originated in Germany, focuses on principles of perception and how the brain organizes information.

• Key Idea: Human brains tend to jump to conclusions, seeking patterns or recognizable forms to make sense of the information.

Perceptual Principles

• Schemas and Mind Maps: These are mental frameworks that help in problem-solving and organizing thoughts efficiently based on previous experiences.

• Efficiency of Perception: The brain typically prefers the easiest explanation which is often correct, but can lead to errors or assumptions.

Key Principles of Perception

• Figure-Ground Relationship:

  • Perception varies based on what is considered the foreground or background of an image.

  • Example: An image can be perceived as a vase or two faces depending on which part is perceived as the figure or ground.

• Proximity:

  • Objects that are close together are often grouped together by the brain.

  • Example: Columns in an image can be grouped by their closeness rather than by color or other features.

• Similarity:

  • Objects with similar traits are grouped together.

  • The brain organizes information in a way that simplifies understanding, even if there are other interpretations.

• Closure:

  • The brain fills in gaps to create a whole image even when part of it is missing.

  • Example: Incomplete shapes are perceived as complete figures based on context.

Human Biases

• Bias Awareness: It's essential to recognize personal biases that can influence perceptions and interactions.

• Discrimination versus Bias:

  • Bias refers to prejudged mental inclinations, while discrimination includes actions based on those biases.

  • Aim to treat individuals kindly regardless of personal biases.

• Harvard Bias Test: A tool available for free that identifies various implicit biases (racial, age, religious, etc.) through a series of questions and tasks. It measures both responses and reaction times.

Memory Stages

• Three Functions of Memory:

  1. Encoding: The process of learning and inputting information in a way that makes sense personally.

     • Example: Memorizing definitions in your own words enhances retention.

  2. Storage: Refers to where information is retained in the brain.

  3. Retrieval: Involves accessing and recalling stored information.

• Challenges in Memory: An individual may struggle with any stage of memory leading to difficulty in recollecting information (e.g., names). Effortful processing can improve this.

Strategies for Improving Memory

• Effortful Processing: Deliberate strategies to improve memory, such as linking new information to known experiences.

  • Example: Associating a name with a personal experience can enhance recall.

Types of Memory

• Sensory Memory: Initial sensory experience that lasts briefly.

• Short-Term Memory: Temporary holding place for information (lasting about 20 seconds).

• Long-Term Memory: Information stored for extended periods, potentially a lifetime.

Characteristics of Traumatic Memories

• Traumatic experiences may lead to fragmented memories, making them difficult to recount clearly due to non-linear or patchy recollections.