Chapter 1 The Science of Psychology

A Little Exercise See in class!

Topics to Explore The Science of Psychology Major Perspectives in Psychology Psychologists & Their Specialties

Part 1 The Science of Psychology

What is Psychology? Psychology Psyche: Mind Logos: Knowledge or study Definition: The science of behavior and mental processes Science: Theories tested with research using scientific method Behavior: Overt; i.e., can be directly observed (crying) Mental Processes: Covert; i.e., cannot be directly observed (remembering)

Scientific Theory Scientific Theory: A system of ideas that interrelates facts and concepts, summarizes existing data, and predicts future observations A good theory must be falsifiable; i.e., operationally defined so that it can be disconfirmed

Concepts & Operational Definitions

Scientific Method

Empiricism To measure and describe behaviors To gather empirical evidence: information gained from direct observation and measurement To gather data: observed facts

Example of Empirical Study Study by Kenrick & MacFarlane (1986) blocking intersec-tion with a stalled car. Recorded daily temperature and number of times other drivers honked at the stalled car.

Part 2 Major Perspectives in Psychology

A Look Back in History: The Psychodynamic View Key Idea: Behavior is directed by forces within one’s personality; forces that are often hidden or unconscious Emphasizes internal impulses, desires, and conflicts (especially in the unconscious) Views behavior as the result of clashing forces within personality Has a somewhat negative, pessimistic view of human nature Major contributor: Sigmund Freud We will explore Freud’s theory later in the semester

Sigmund Freud

Perspective 1: The Biological View Key Idea: Behavior is the result of internal physical, chemical, and biological processes. Seeks to explain behavior through the activity of the brain and nervous system, physiology, genetics, the endocrine system, biochemistry, and evolution Has a neutral, reductionistic, mechanistic view of human nature Some research methods Uses brain scans to gather data (CT, MRI, PET) Looks at neurotransmitters Treats psychological problems with medications

Perspective 2: The Cognitive View Key Idea: Much human behavior can be understood in terms of the mental processing of information Concerned with thinking, knowing, perception, understanding, memory, decision making and judgment Explains behavior in terms of information processing Has a neutral, somewhat computer-like view of human nature.

Perspective 3: The Behavioral View Key Idea: Behavior is shaped and controlled by the environment. Emphasizes the study of observable behavior and the effects of learning Stresses the influence of external rewards and punishments Has a neutral, scientific, mechanistic view of human nature Major contributors to Behaviorism: Watson and Skinner Events in environment  Behavior Watson studied Little Albert; Skinner studied animals almost exclusively

Ivan Pavlov

B. F. Skinner

Perspective 4: Sociocultural Approach Many thoughts and behaviors are influenced by our culture. Psychologists need to be aware of the impact cultural diversity may have on our behaviors. What is acceptable in one culture might be unacceptable in another. Cultural Relativity: Behavior must be judged relative to the values of the culture in which it occurs. Norms: Rules that define acceptable and expected behavior for members of various groups.

Relative Prominence of Major Schools of Thought

Part 3 Psychologists and Their Specialties

Many Flavors of Therapists Psychologists: Usually have masters or doctorate. Trained in methods, knowledge, and theories of psychology. Psychiatrists: MD; usually use medications to treat problems. Generally do not have extensive training in providing “talk” therapy. Psychoanalysts: Receive additional training post-Ph.D. or M.D. at an institute. Psychiatric Social Workers: Many have masters degrees and perform psychotherapy. Presently a very popular profession. Not all psychologists perform therapy!

Specialties in Psychology

Where Psychologists Work

What Psychologists Do (Primary Activity)

Psychological Viewpoint Questionnaire See in class!

Psychological Viewpoint Questionnaire Score Sheet See in class!