Defining Psychology: Mind & Behavior; Psychology as a Science & Its Goals; Historical Roots: Structuralism vs. Functionalism; Applying Psychological Principles; Psychology's Real-World Impact

Introduction to Psychology

Sociology

Agenda

• Defining Psychology: Mind & Behavior

• Psychology as a Science & Its Goals

• Historical Roots: Structuralism vs. Functionalism

• Applying Psychological Principles

• Psychology's Real-World Impact

Introduction to Psychology

Explore the scientific study of mind and behavior, its core goals, and foundational historical perspectives that shaped the discipline.

What is Psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of mental processes and behaviour. It investigates how we think, feel, and act, exploring both internal experiences and observable actions. This field uses systematic methods to understand human experience.

Mind and Behavior Defined

The 'mind' encompasses internal mental processes such as thoughts, emotions, and memories, which are not directly observable. Conversely, 'behavior' refers to any outwardly observable action or reaction, like speaking or running. Psychology systematically investigates the intricate interplay between these internal states and external actions, for instance, how anxiety (mind) might manifest as fidgeting (behavior).

Psychology as a Science

• Relies on empirical evidence; data gathered via observation.

• Uses systematic observation and controlled experiments.

• Employs scientific method: hypotheses, testing, conclusions.

• Seeks objectivity and reliability through rigorous methods.

Four Core Goals

Psychology fundamentally seeks to understand human experience through four core goals. We aim to describe behavior, like observing how students study, and explain why it happens, such as linking study habits to academic success. Ultimately, psychology predicts future actions and facilitates positive change, for instance, developing effective learning strategies.

Goal 1: Describe

The first goal of psychology is to describe what is happening. This involves systematically observing and documenting specific behaviors and mental processes. For instance, a psychologist might describe how often a student procrastinates or the specific symptoms a patient reports, without yet exploring the underlying reasons.

Uncovering the 'Why'

Developing Explanatory Theories

The goal of explanation in psychology moves beyond simply describing behaviour to understanding its underlying causes. Psychologists seek to identify the factors and conditions that contribute to observed mental states and actions. For instance, explaining why an individual experiences anxiety involves exploring potential genetic predispositions, environmental stressors, or learned associations.

Achieving explanation often involves formulating and testing psychological theories. These theories provide systematic frameworks that connect various concepts and observations, offering insights into causal relationships. For example, cognitive theories explain depression by focusing on negative thought patterns and distorted beliefs, suggesting these are primary drivers of the condition.

Goal 3: Predict

Prediction involves forecasting future behaviors or mental processes. By understanding the causes of phenomena, psychologists can anticipate how individuals might act under specific conditions. For example, knowing a student's study habits helps predict their exam performance.

Goal 4: Change

• Modify undesirable behaviors (e.g., treating phobias).

• Improve negative mental states (e.g., reducing anxiety).

• Apply psychological knowledge for personal growth.

• Enhance well-being and adaptive functioning.

Introduction to Psychology

Defining Psychology: Mind & Behavior; Psychology as a Science & Its Goals; Historical Roots: Structuralism vs. Functionalism; Applying Psychological Principles; Psychology's Real-World Impact

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