intro to psychology notes

Page 1: Definition of Psychology

Psychology is defined as the scientific study of behavior and mental processes.
- It explores how individuals think, feel, and act in various situations.
- The field examines the biological, cognitive, and social factors influencing these processes.

Psychology
- Focus: Behavior and mental processes.
- Education: Requires a Master’s, Ph.D., or Psy.D. in Psychology.
- Work Mode: Assessment and understanding behaviors.
- Prescription Authority: No authority.
Psychotherapy
- Similar to Psychology but involves additional therapy training.
- Focus on therapeutic techniques and practical applications.
Psychiatry
- Medical degree (M.D. or D.O.) required.
- Focus: Biological and medical aspects of mental health.
- Prescription Authority: Yes, as licensed medical doctors.

Super-Ego:
- Represents moral conscience, societal and moral standards.
- Involves judgments and decision-making.
Ego:
- The realistic part mediating between desires of the Id and Super-Ego.
- Involved in problem-solving and utilizing defense mechanisms (e.g. denial).
Id:
- Primitive, instinctual part containing sexual and aggressive drives (libido) and hidden memories.

A visual representation of how thoughts influence feelings and behaviors:
- GOOD: Positive core beliefs lead to positive behaviors.
- SOSO: Average core beliefs lead to average outcomes.
- BAD: Negative core beliefs lead to negative behaviors.

Not all symptoms indicate a mental disorder; everyone can relate to feelings of distress.
Disorder vs. Symptom:
- Symptoms must persist over time and impact professional, academic, and social life.
- A minimum of 5 symptoms is usually required for diagnosis.

Anxiety disorders are prevalent among these populations, differing from normal nervous feelings.
Characteristics include prolonged anxiety and excessive fear, affecting daily activities.

Anorexia Nervosa:
- Extreme restriction of food intake, fear of gaining weight, distorted body perception.
Bulimia Nervosa:
- Episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors (vomiting, laxatives).
Health Risks:
- Malnutrition, organ failure, electrolyte imbalances, heart issues.

ADHD includes three main symptoms:
- Inattention: Challenges focusing and staying organized.
- Motor Hyperactivity: Excessive movement and restlessness.
- Impulsivity: Hasty decisions without forethought.
There is a variant known as ADD, which lacks hyperactivity.

Academic challenges, poor time management, chaotic thought processes.
High likelihood of instability in careers and hobbies; risk of substance abuse and mental health issues.
Fluctuating self-esteem due to attention-related challenges.

Impulsivity involves:
- Acting on sudden urges or lack of planning.
- Difficulty with self-control, leading to risky behaviors.
- Interrupting conversations, impatient behavior.

Psychotherapy is a treatment for mental health and emotional struggles.
- Provides safe space for individuals to express thoughts and feelings.
- Aims to help individuals cope, improve relationships, and foster personal growth.

Parapraxis: Errors in speech or action caused by unconscious desires.
Dreams: Expressions of repressed desires and conflicts, often symbolic.
Repression: Distressing thoughts pushed out of consciousness.
Transference: Projecting feelings from past relationships onto the therapist.
Projective Tests: Various tests that reveal unconscious thoughts and feelings (e.g., Rorschach inkblot).

A behavioral therapy aimed to confront and reduce fear or anxiety.
Involves gradual exposure to feared objects/situations in a controlled environment.

HR is responsible for hiring, training, managing, and supporting employees.
Main functions include recruitment, onboarding, performance evaluation, and engagement.

Provides insights into employee behavior and motivation in workplaces.
Helps HR professionals to:
1. Select suitable candidates.
2. Understand and address employee motivations.
3. Resolve conflicts.
4. Enhance productivity and employee well-being.