Psychology Theories - Quick Reference

Biological Approach

  • Focus: Bodily systems and their impact on behavior (brain structures, nervous system, physiological processes).

Behavioral Approach

  • Focus: Observable behavior and how the environment shapes it.
  • Key idea: reinforcement and punishment guide learning and actions.

Psychodynamic Approach

  • Core idea: Behavior driven by unconscious thoughts and drives.
  • Founder and focus: Sigmund Freud; psychosexual development and unconscious desires.
  • Criticisms: Overemphasis on sexuality; modern psychodynamic theories have evolved.

Humanistic Approach

  • Core idea: People are inherently good with the capacity for positive growth.
  • Applications: Therapy and counseling often grounded in this perspective.

Cognitive Approach

  • Core idea: Emphasizes mental processes (attention, perception, memory, thought, problem solving).
  • Mind as computer analogy: Input → processing of learned experiences → response.
  • Careers: Primarily research-focused (experimental psychology).
  • Notable point from transcript: contrasts with behaviorism by focusing on internal processes.

Evolutionary Approach

  • Core idea: Behaviors shaped by evolution to aid survival and reproduction.
  • Criticisms: May misexplain gender roles and underemphasize cultural diversity.
  • Careers: Mostly research-focused in psychology.

Sociocultural Approach

  • Core idea: Culture and environment influence behavior.
  • Bioecological theory (within sociocultural): multiple systems interact to shape behavior.
  • Key concept: Interaction with others and systemic context drives actions.
  • Careers: Marriage and family therapists, social workers; systems-level thinking.

Case Example: Sleep Across Approaches

  • Biological: Focus on brain processes and brain structures related to sleep.
  • Behavioral: Rewards/punishments reinforce sleep vs. wakefulness.
  • Psychodynamic: Dreams reflect unconscious wishes/desires (dream interpretation).
  • Humanistic: Sleep as self-care and well-being to enable peak functioning.
  • Cognitive: Sleep’s role in memory and cognitive performance.
  • Evolutionary: Sleep timing (night vs. day) and survival strategies.
  • Sociocultural: Cultural practices around sleep and family sleep norms (e.g., co-sleeping).

Discussion Post Guidelines (Course Assignment)

  • Task: Identify which theory is intriguing and explain why; pose two questions you want answered in the course.
  • Initial post requirements:
    • At least 3 sentences long.
    • Sentence 1: name the theory.
    • Sentences 2–3: explain why you like it.
  • Response requirements:
    • Reply to at least two classmates.
    • Do not use generic praise (e.g., "good job").
    • Provide reasons, details, and respectful critique if needed.
  • Writing expectations:
    • Complete sentences, formal tone, well-edited.
    • Be thorough and specific (not just theory name).
  • Access note: Discussion board available on Canvas; time markers and logging details mentioned in class.
  • Time allotment during session: brief discussion period (e.g., 15 minutes) to share parts of your posts.