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Flashcards in this deck (341)
  • What does psychology study?

    Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behavior.

    psychology definition
  • How does psychology acquire knowledge?

    It uses the scientific method to form hypotheses.

    psychology methodology
  • What is a hypothesis in psychology?

    A hypothesis is a tentative explanation that must fit within a scientific theory.

    psychology hypothesis
  • How are hypotheses tested in psychology?

    They are tested through observation or experiments.

    psychology experiments
  • What is the role of scientific theories in psychology?

    Theories provide the best current understanding of a natural phenomenon.

    psychology theories
  • What types of results are shared in psychological research?

    Results are shared via publications or conferences for replication.

    psychology research
  • What can psychological science not study?

    It cannot test values or morality.

    psychology limitations
  • Why are thoughts challenging to study in psychology?

    Because they are not directly matter or energy.

    psychology thoughts
  • What is the empirical method in psychology?

    It is knowledge gained from observation and experimentation.

    psychology empirical
  • Psychology uses the scientific method to acquire knowledge about mind and behavior.

    psychology methodology
  • A hypothesis in psychology must fit within a broader scientific theory.

    psychology hypothesis
  • Psychological science bases its findings on measurable data.

    psychology empirical
  • What type of knowledge does psychology primarily rely on?

    Authority

    Intuition

    Logic

    Empirical research

    psychology knowledge
  • When did psychology become a distinct academic discipline?

    In the late 1800s.

    history psychology
  • What did psychology overlap with before becoming distinct?

    Philosophy.

    history psychology
  • Why is psychology considered a social science?

    Because organisms interact socially.

    science psychology social
  • What are common reasons students study psychology?

    • To understand themselves and others
    • To satisfy education requirements
    • To prepare for programs like nursing and pre-med.
    education psychology
  • What percentage of U.S. bachelor degrees are in psychology?

    Approx. 6%.

    education statistics psychology
  • Name a famous psychology major.

    • Mark Zuckerberg
    • Jon Stewart
    • Natalie Portman
    • Wes Craven.
    trivia psychology
  • List some critical thinking skills gained in psychology.

    • Skepticism
    • Recognizing biases
    • Logical thinking
    • Asking good questions
    • Making and interpreting observations.
    skills psychology critical_thinking
  • What method is emphasized in psychology training?

    The scientific method.

    methodology psychology
  • How does psychology help in communication?

    It improves communication skills.

    skills psychology
  • What is the mission of the American Psychological Association (APA)?

    To advance and share psychological knowledge to improve lives.

    psychology organizations
  • What does APA stand for?

    American Psychological Association.

    psychology organizations
  • What year was the Association for Psychological Science (APS) formed?

    1988.

    psychology organizations
  • What influences modern psychology?

    All historical perspectives, including behaviorism, psychoanalysis, and cognitive psychology.

    psychology theory
  • How many divisions does the APA have?

    56 divisions.

    psychology organizations
  • Which major area does Behavioral Neuroscience belong to?

    One of the specialties within APA divisions.

    psychology specialties
  • What is a core benefit of increased scientific literacy?

    Ability to evaluate information reliability in a world of misleading 'facts'.

    psychology education
  • What is one understanding gained from studying psychology?

    How biology, environment, and experience interact to shape behavior.

    psychology behavior
  • Which psychological organization focuses on scientific research?

    Association for Psychological Science (APS).

    psychology organizations
  • Modern psychology is influenced by historical perspectives like behaviorism, humanism, psychoanalysis, and cognitive psychology.

    psychology theory
  • The APA has divisions that cover specialties such as Religion & Spirituality, Exercise/Sport Psychology, and Behavioral Neuroscience.

    psychology specialties
  • Which organization is the largest psychology organization worldwide?

    Association for Psychological Science (APS)

    International Psychological Association

    World Psychological Society

    American Psychological Association (APA)

    psychology organizations
  • What is a focus of the Association for Psychological Science (APS)?

    Scientific research in psychology

    Education

    Clinical practice

    Training programs

    psychology research
  • What is the main focus of modern psychology?

    The scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

    psychology definition
  • Which organizations support cultural issues in psychology?

    • NLPA (Latina/o Psychologists)
    • AAPA (Asian American Psychologists)
    • ABPsi (Black Psychologists)
    • SIP (Society of Indian Psychologists)
    psychology organizations
  • What does Biopsychology study?

    How biology and the nervous system shape behavior.

    psychology biopsychology
  • What methods does Biopsychology utilize?

    Methods from psychology and physiology, part of neuroscience.

    psychology biopsychology methods
  • List some research topics in Biopsychology.

    • Sensation & movement
    • Sleep
    • Drug use & addiction
    • Hunger & ingestive behavior
    • Sexual/reproductive behavior
    • Brain development
    psychology biopsychology research
  • Biopsychology is part of neuroscience and studies how biology influences behavior.

    psychology biopsychology
  • What concept refers to the brain's ability to change throughout life?

    Neural plasticity

    psychology neuroscience
  • Which discipline studies the biological bases of mental disorders?

    Interdisciplinary fields including psychology, biology, medicine, and chemistry

    psychology biology
  • What does evolutionary psychology focus on?

    Ultimate causes of behavior based on natural selection.

    psychology evolution
  • Which scientist's work is foundational for evolutionary psychology?

    Charles Darwin

    psychology history
  • How does evolutionary psychology view behavior?

    Behaviors can be genetically influenced and shaped by ancestral environments.

    psychology evolution
  • What is a limitation when testing human behaviors in evolutionary psychology?

    It's hard to prove if behavior is genetic or cultural.

    psychology limitations
  • What common research topics are studied in evolutionary psychology?

    • Memory
    • Mate choice & attraction
    • Family/kin relationships
    psychology research
  • Evolutionary psychology assumes that behaviors can be genetically influenced and shaped by ancestral environments.

    psychology evolution
  • The predictions of evolutionary psychology can be tested through observations or experiments.

    psychology research
  • What is one topic commonly researched under evolutionary psychology?

    Cognitive biases

    Mate choice & attraction

    Social media influence

    Emotional intelligence

    psychology research
  • What does the field of Sensation & Perception study?

    It studies how sensory systems work and how we psychologically interpret sensory information.

    psychology sensation perception
  • What factors influence perception?

    • Attention
    • Past experiences
    • Culture
    psychology perception
  • How is perception different from sensation?

    Perception is shaped by various factors; sensation is the raw input from our senses.

    psychology sensation perception
  • What was the focus of Buss's 1989 study?

    It explored mate preferences in 37 cultures, aligning with evolutionary predictions.

    psychology evolution relationships
  • What do women generally prefer in partners according to Buss's study?

    • Earning potential
    psychology relationships gender
  • What do men generally look for in partners according to Buss's study?

    • Youth
    • Physical attractiveness
    psychology relationships gender
  • Everyday experiences like sights and sounds are part of the field of Sensation & Perception.

    psychology sensation perception
  • Which of the following is NOT a factor that shapes perception?

    Culture

    Past experiences

    Raw sensory input

    Attention

    psychology perception
  • What is cognitive psychology primarily focused on?

    The study of mental processes such as thoughts, memory, attention, problem-solving, language, and decision-making.

    psychology cognition
  • What significant shift occurred in psychology during the cognitive revolution?

    Focus returned to the mind and mental processes.

    psychology cognitive_revolution
  • How is cognitive psychology described in relation to other disciplines?

    It is highly interdisciplinary and sometimes referred to as cognitive science.

    psychology interdisciplinary
  • What are the main areas of study in cognitive psychology?

    • Thoughts
    • Memory
    • Attention
    • Problem solving
    • Language
    • Decision-making
    psychology cognitive
  • What does developmental psychology study?

    The scientific study of changes across the entire lifespan, including physical maturation, cognitive changes, moral reasoning, and social behavior.

    psychology developmental
  • Which psychologist is notably associated with cognitive development?

    Jean Piaget.

    psychology developmental piaget
  • Cognitive psychology studies important topics such as thoughts, memory, and attention.

    psychology cognition
  • Developmental psychology examines changes from infancy to adulthood.

    psychology developmental
  • What do infants lack that affects their understanding of hidden objects?

    Object permanence.

    developmental_psychology infants
  • What age group is increasing dramatically in the U.S.?

    The 65+ age group.

    demographics aging
  • Who were the historical contributors to personality psychology?

    • Freud
    • Maslow
    • Allport
    psychology personality
  • According to Freud, personality develops from what?

    Unconscious conflicts and psychosexual stages.

    psychology freud
  • What is the modern approach to personality psychology?

    A quantitative focus on identifying and measuring traits.

    psychology quantitative
  • What are the Big Five Personality Traits?

    • Conscientiousness
    • Agreeableness
    • Neuroticism
    • Openness
    • Extraversion
    personality traits
  • How are traits viewed in terms of lifespan?

    They are stable over the lifespan and influenced by genetics.

    personality lifespan
  • What does social psychology study?

    How people think about, relate to, and influence each other.

    social_psychology relationships
  • What is the definition of psychology?

    Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

    psychology definition
  • What are some of the key subfields of psychology?

    • Clinical psychology
    • Cognitive psychology
    • Industrial-Organizational psychology
    • Health psychology
    psychology subfields
  • The major focus of psychology is on empirical research.

    psychology research
  • What does Industrial-Organizational psychology involve?

    • Hiring
    • Training
    • Productivity & efficiency
    • Organizational structure
    i/o_psychology workplace
  • Health psychology studies the relationship between psychological processes and health.

    health_psychology study
  • What did Milgram's obedience experiment demonstrate?

    It showed that nearly 2/3 of participants obeyed orders to deliver what they thought were lethal shocks, revealing the human capacity to obey authority.

    milgram obedience experiment
  • Milgram's findings led to stricter ethical guidelines such as informed consent and limits on deception.

    ethics research
  • How does psychology contribute to self-understanding?

    By providing insights into our own behaviors and mental processes.

    psychology self-understanding
  • What research methods are commonly used in psychology?

    • Experiments
    • Surveys
    • Observations
    research methods
  • What model is used to understand health?

    The biopsychosocial model: Health = biology + psychology + social factors.

    health biopsychosocial
  • What does the biopsychosocial model focus on?

    • Health behavior change
    • Stress & illness
    • Public health interventions
    • Motivation for healthier behaviors
    • Biological, stress, habits, and health relationships
    health behavior stress
  • What does Sport & Exercise Psychology study?

    • Psychological factors in athletic performance
    • Motivation
    • Performance anxiety
    • Mental well-being related to exercise
    psychology sports exercise
  • In which fields does Sport & Exercise Psychology apply?

    • Military
    • Surgery
    • Firefighting
    • Performing arts
    psychology performance application
  • What is the focus of Clinical Psychology?

    Diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders.

    psychology clinical
  • How does Counseling Psychology differ from Clinical Psychology?

    Counseling psychology focuses more on healthy individuals and life, social, and career issues.

    psychology counseling differences
  • Health is defined using the formula: Health = biology + psychology + social factors.

    health formula
  • Key focuses of the biopsychosocial model include: - Health behavior change - Stress & illness - Public health interventions.

    health biopsychosocial
  • For athletes, factors studied in Sport & Exercise Psychology include: - Motivation - Performance anxiety - Mental well-being related to exercise.

    psychology sports
  • Clinical Psychology emphasizes on the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders.

    psychology clinical
  • What is the main focus of Counseling Psychology?

    Diagnosis of mental disorders

    Public health interventions

    To address life, social, and career issues

    Motivation of athletes

    psychology counseling
  • Who is associated with psychodynamic therapy?

    Sigmund Freud

    psychology therapy
  • Identify the therapy founded by Carl Rogers.

    Client-centered therapy

    psychology therapy
  • Which approach is known as behavioral therapy?

    Behaviorism

    psychology therapy
  • What therapy emerged from the cognitive revolution?

    Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

    psychology therapy
  • What field of psychology applies to the legal and justice system?

    Forensic Psychology

    psychology forensic
  • Name one responsibility of a forensic psychologist.

    Conducting competency evaluations

    psychology forensic
  • What evaluation assesses defendants' mental states?

    Competency evaluations

    psychology forensic
  • What role involves child custody evaluations?

    A task for forensic psychologists

    psychology forensic
  • What do forensic psychologists provide in court cases?

    Expert testimony

    psychology forensic
  • What task includes giving sentencing recommendations?

    A function of forensic psychology

    psychology forensic
  • Which psychologists consult on eyewitness reliability?

    Forensic psychologists

    psychology forensic
  • What do some forensic psychologists specialize in as criminal profilers?

    Analyzing behavior of criminals

    psychology forensic
  • How is psychology often perceived in popular culture?

    As the most visible field, often mistaken for all psychology

    psychology culture
  • Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes, focusing on empirical research.

    psychology definition
  • Major subfields of psychology include clinical and cognitive psychology.

    psychology subfields
  • Research methods in psychology often involve experiments and surveys.

    psychology research
  • Ethical standards in research are vital for maintaining the integrity of scientific studies in psychology, ensuring subject safety.

    psychology ethics
  • What are the typical educational requirements for most psychology careers?

    A PhD (research-focused) or a master's degree (some specialties).

    education psychology
  • What does a PhD in psychology stand for?

    Doctor of Philosophy.

    education psychology
  • What must be completed before awarding a PhD in the U.S.?

    A dissertation must be defended before a committee.

    research psychology
  • What are the main responsibilities of university faculty?

    • Teaching
    • Research
    • Service (committees, advising)
    academia faculty
  • What characterizes the workload of faculty members?

    It varies by institution, leading many to move for a better fit.

    academia faculty
  • Who are adjuncts and instructors in academia?

    They teach when schools need more teachers than full-time faculty.

    education academia
  • What degrees do adjuncts often hold?

    Master's degrees or other careers outside academia.

    education academia
  • What is the purpose of teaching at community colleges?

    To gain experience for future academic roles.

    education community_colleges
  • Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

    psychology definition
  • The methodology in psychology includes the use of empirical research.

    psychology methodology
  • Major subfields of psychology include clinical and cognitive psychology.

    psychology subfields
  • Research methods in psychology can include experiments and surveys.

    psychology research_methods
  • Ethical standards in research are important for psychological studies.

    psychology ethics
  • What degrees are often held by individuals teaching at research universities?

    Typically, a master's degree or a PhD.

    education academia
  • What is a common requirement for a PhD graduate to enhance their career in research?

    Completing 1–2 postdoctoral fellowships.

    research career
  • What does a PsyD degree focus on?

    Clinical practice, with less emphasis on research.

    psychology education
  • What must one do after obtaining a PhD or PsyD to practice independently?

    Complete postdoctoral supervised hours and pass a licensure exam.

    licensure psychology
  • What must someone do to call themselves a licensed clinical psychologist?

    They must pass the licensure exam.

    psychology licensure
  • A PsyD, or Doctor of Psychology, emphasizes clinical practice over research.

    psychology education
  • In psychology, research-heavy roles often prefer candidates with postdoctoral training.

    psychology research
  • What is a key requirement for becoming a licensed psychologist after earning a PsyD?

    Attending additional workshops

    Publication of a book

    Passing a licensure exam

    Completing a master's thesis

    psychology licensure
  • What degree is typically required for a clinical psychologist?

    PhD or PsyD

    psychology education
  • What professionals can prescribe medication?

    Psychiatrists

    psychology medicine
  • What is a common role for a biopsychologist?

    Pharmaceutical research and drug testing

    psychology biopsychology
  • List some roles a clinical psychologist may take on.

    • Forensic psychology
    • Courtroom evaluations
    • Parole boards
    psychology clinical
  • What roles can someone with a Master's degree pursue in psychology?

    • Licensed professional counselors
    • School psychologists
    • I/O consultants
    psychology careers
  • What are two careers associated with a Master's degree in psychology?

    • Psychiatric social work
    • Psychiatric nursing
    psychology master's
  • What does the work of an I/O psychologist typically involve?

    Consulting in corporate settings

    psychology i/o_psychology
  • A clinical psychologist typically holds a PhD or PsyD.

    psychology clinical
  • A psychiatrist has a medical degree (MD) and can prescribe medication.

    psychology medicine
  • PhD holders may specialize in different areas, such as biopsychologist, which involves pharmaceutical research.

    psychology biopsychology
  • Some careers requiring a Master's degree in psychology include: licensed professional counselors, school psychologists, and I/O consultants.

    psychology master's
  • Which professional can prescribe medications?

    Clinical Psychologist

    School Psychologist

    Psychiatrist

    Licensed Counselor

    psychology medicine
  • Identify the role of a biopsychologist.

    School psychologist

    Pharmaceutical research

    Forensic psychologist

    Industrial consultant

    psychology biopsychology
  • What skills are valued by employers for psychology majors?

    • Communication
    • Research
    • People skills
    career skills psychology
  • What common career path involves teaching at high school level?

    • High school teaching (with teaching certification)
    career education psychology
  • Which profession considers psychology part of the MCAT exam?

    • Healthcare professions
    career healthcare psychology
  • Scientific research in psychology is important because it helps us navigate the world using evidence instead of intuition or superstition.

    research psychology
  • Historically, without science, people believed that the sun revolved around a flat earth.

    history psychology beliefs
  • Scientific research challenges preconceived beliefs and builds objective knowledge.

    research psychology knowledge
  • Psychology is defined as the scientific study of behavior and mental processes, with a focus on empirical research.

    definition psychology
  • Which of the following is NOT a common career path for psychology majors?

    Case manager

    Human resources

    Chef

    Sales

    career psychology
  • What do psychologists aim to understand?

    • Behavior
    • Cognitive processes
    • Physiological processes
    psychology behavior cognition
  • What type of knowledge do psychologists rely on?

    Empirical knowledge: based on observable, repeatable evidence.

    psychology research
  • Why do psychologists create methods to infer mental states?

    Behavior is observable; the mind is not.

    psychology cognition
  • Some studies about technology use show improved engagement and performance, while others indicate negative effects like sleep issues.

    psychology technology
  • What is crucial when reaching a consensus in research?

    Consensus takes time due to studies often contradicting each other.

    psychology research
  • What should you evaluate for critical thinking?

    • Expertise of the claim maker
    • Their motives
    • Evidence supporting the claim
    • Agreement with the broader scientific community
    critical_thinking psychology
  • What does the phrase 'scientifically proven' often misuse?

    The phrase is often misused in advertisements.

    psychology advertising
  • What is a key example of how research influences policy decisions?

    Funding early-intervention programs for children.

    research policy education
  • What does research help identify regarding early-intervention programs?

    • Which programs work best
    • Which produce long-term benefits
    research programs education
  • How does research impact personal decisions?

    It separates effective treatments from untested claims.

    research decisions health
  • Name some examples of treatments for a child with autism.

    • ABA
    • Social skills groups
    • Occupational therapy
    • Medication
    autism treatments health
  • In research, facts are observable realities while opinions are personal beliefs. Only facts are established through empirical research.

    research facts opinions
  • Who are notable researchers in the field of psychology?

    Key figures include those who contributed significantly to the understanding of behavior and mental processes.

    research psychology notable_figures
  • Why is research important for self-understanding and education?

    It informs better choices and decisions in various aspects of life.

    research education self-understanding
  • What are major subfields of psychology?

    • Clinical psychology
    • Cognitive psychology
    psychology subfields science
  • What are some common research methods used in psychology?

    • Experiments
    • Surveys
    research methods psychology
  • What is crucial within ethical standards in research?

    Ensuring the welfare and rights of participants are protected.

    research ethics standards
  • Who was the first woman with a PhD in psychology?

    Margaret Floy Washburn

    psychology women
  • Identify the field of study of Margaret Floy Washburn.

    Animal behavior and cognition

    psychology research
  • Who was the first female APA president?

    Mary Whiton Calkins

    psychology women apa
  • What research did Mary Whiton Calkins focus on?

    Memory research

    psychology memory
  • Who was the first African American with a PhD in psychology?

    Francis Sumner

    psychology african_american
  • What title is Francis Sumner known as?

    Father of Black Psychology

    psychology history
  • Which landmark case was influenced by Inez Beverly Prosser's research?

    Brown v. Board of Education

    psychology education
  • Who founded early psychology labs in Argentina?

    Horatio Piñero

    psychology global
  • Which psychologists founded the first psychology departments in India?

    Boaz & Sen Gupta

    psychology global
  • In 1892, the APA consisted of all White men.

    history psychology
  • By 1946, approximately 25% of psychologists were women.

    history psychology women
  • There has been a growing representation of women and minorities in psychology, especially in historically Black colleges.

    psychology diversity
  • What is the process of science?

    Science progresses through a circular process of: 1. Theories 2. Generate Hypotheses 3. Make Empirical Observations 4. Revise Theories and Repeat.

    science method
  • What is deductive reasoning?

    Deductive reasoning goes from general to specific and is used to test hypotheses.

    reasoning deductive
  • Provide an example of deductive reasoning.

    • All living things need energy.
    • Ducks are living.
    • Thus, ducks need energy.
    reasoning examples deductive
  • What is inductive reasoning?

    Inductive reasoning moves from specific to general and creates new ideas based on observations.

    reasoning inductive
  • Provide an example of inductive reasoning.

    • Apples, bananas, and oranges grow on trees.
    • Incorrectly concludes:
    • All fruits grow on trees.
    reasoning examples inductive
  • How are case studies characterized in research?

    Case studies are characterized as heavily inductive.

    research case_studies
  • How are experiments characterized in research?

    Experiments are characterized as heavily deductive.

    research experiments
  • The scientific process involves a circular progression of: Theories, Generate Hypotheses, Make Empirical Observations, Revise Theories and Repeat.

    science method
  • In deductive reasoning, one goes from general to specific.

    reasoning deductive
  • Inductive reasoning moves from specific to general.

    reasoning inductive
  • What is a well-developed set of ideas explaining a phenomenon called?

    Theory

    psychology theory
  • What is a testable prediction often expressed as an 'if-then' statement?

    Hypothesis

    psychology hypothesis
  • What is a key feature of a good hypothesis?

    Falsifiability

    science falsifiability
  • Why is falsifiability important in science?

    Ensures scientific claims can be proven wrong and tested repeatedly.

    science importance
  • A hypothesis must be falsifiable to be considered valid in science.

    science hypothesis
  • Freud's theories are often criticized for being unfalsifiable.

    psychology freud
  • James-Lange theory of emotion produces falsifiable hypotheses.

    psychology emotion
  • How does a hypothesis help bridge ideas?

    It connects theoretical concepts to real-world testing.

    science bridging
  • List the main research methods used by psychologists.

    • Experiments
    • Surveys
    • Observational Studies
    psychology research
  • What ensures that scientific information is reliable?

    Claims must survive repeated testing.

    science reliability
  • What are the main research methods in psychology?

    • Observations
    • Surveys & interviews
    • Case studies
    • Archival research
    • Experiments
    • Longitudinal & cross-sectional studies
    research psychology methods
  • What do correlational studies demonstrate?

    They show relationships but cannot prove cause & effect.

    research correlation psychology
  • Which method can establish causality?

    Experiments can establish causality due to variable control.

    research causality experiments
  • What is an important limitation of experiments?

    Experiments often happen in artificial settings, which may lack real-world validity.

    research experiments limitations
  • Why can't some research questions be studied experimentally?

    Some research questions cannot be studied due to ethical reasons.

    ethics research psychology
  • What is the definition of clinical case studies?

    Intensive study of one person or a small group, especially for rare cases.

    psychology case_studies definition
  • What are the strengths of clinical case studies?

    • Provides rich, detailed information
    • Helps understand unique or rare phenomena
    • Useful in neuroscience and clinical psychology
    psychology case_studies strengths
  • Experiments can establish causality because of variable control.

    research causality experiments
  • Correlational studies can show relationships but cannot prove cause & effect.

    research correlation psychology
  • What is a common research method used for rare cases?

    Case studies

    Experiments

    Surveys

    Longitudinal studies

    psychology case_studies methods
  • List two weaknesses of case studies.

    • Cannot generalize to a larger population
    • High risk of researcher bias
    research case_studies
  • What is a key feature of naturalistic observation?

    • Observing behavior in natural settings without interfering
    research naturalistic_observation
  • What is a goal of naturalistic observation?

    To capture real, authentic behavior

    research naturalistic_observation
  • Why must the researcher be unobtrusive in naturalistic observation?

    To prevent participants from changing their behavior

    research naturalistic_observation
  • Name a strength of naturalistic observation.

    High ecological validity (realistic, natural behavior)

    research naturalistic_observation
  • How does naturalistic observation affect generalization?

    It allows for better generalization to real-life settings.

    research naturalistic_observation
  • List some methods used in naturalistic observation.

    • Hidden observers
    • Distance observation
    • Wireless microphones
    • Laboratory preschool environments
    research naturalistic_observation
  • What is a limitation of hard-to-control observational situations?

    You may not see the behavior you need.

    research observation
  • What issues can arise from time-consuming observational methods?

    They can be costly and unpredictable.

    research observation
  • How can observer bias be minimized?

    • Clear coding rules
    • Multiple observers
    • Inter-rater reliability checks
    research bias
  • What method involves observing behavior during participants' set tasks?

    Structured Observation.

    research observation
  • What defines surveys in psychological research?

    Lists of questions given to large groups (paper, online, verbal).

    research surveys
  • What are strengths of surveys?

    • Collect data from large samples
    • Cheaper and faster
    • Better generalizability
    research surveys strengths
  • What are weaknesses associated with surveys?

    • Shallow data compared with case studies
    • Relies on self-report
    research surveys weaknesses
  • What issues might arise from self-reports in surveys?

    • Lying
    • Misremembering
    research surveys self-report
  • What is the definition of social desirability bias?

    A tendency for respondents to answer questions in a manner that will be viewed favorably by others.

    psychology bias
  • What does population refer to in research?

    The group you want to study.

    research population
  • What is a sample in research?

    The people you actually gather data from.

    research sample
  • Define mode as a measure of central tendency.

    It is the most frequent value in a dataset.

    statistics central_tendency
  • What is the median in statistics?

    The middle value when data is ordered.

    statistics central_tendency
  • Explain mean.

    The average of a dataset, sensitive to outliers.

    statistics central_tendency
  • In a post-9/11 survey, participants denied prejudice but showed lower willingness to interact with Arab-Americans, revealing subtle bias.

    psychology bias survey
  • What is archival research?

    Using existing records like documents, databases, and surveys.

    research archival
  • What is a strength of archival research?

    It is inexpensive and efficient, requiring no recruitment of participants.

    research archival strengths
  • What is a weakness of archival research?

    There is no control over the quality or completeness of data.

    research archival weaknesses
  • What is longitudinal research?

    Studying the same group over a long period (years or decades) to track development, change, and risk factors over time.

    research longitudinal
  • What is a major strength of longitudinal research?

    It eliminates cohort differences and provides strong evidence for developmental patterns.

    research strengths
  • What is a significant weakness of longitudinal research?

    It is extremely time-consuming and costly, with results potentially taking decades.

    research weaknesses
  • How does longitudinal research impact sample representation?

    High attrition requires constant checking to ensure the remaining sample still represents the population.

    research sample_representation
  • From where are large sample sizes often derived in longitudinal research?

    Major health studies like CPS-3 cancer prevention research.

    research cps-3
  • How is cross-sectional research defined?

    Cross-sectional research involves studying a population at a single point in time to examine various characteristics.

    research cross-sectional
  • Research questions must fit the available data.

    research methodology
  • Longitudinal research tracks development, change, and risk factors over time.

    research longitudinal
  • What are common weaknesses of longitudinal research?

    Immediate results

    High sample sizes

    Extremely time-consuming

    Short study periods

    High attrition

    Costly

    research weaknesses
  • What is a major strength of cross-sectional studies?

    They are faster and cheaper than longitudinal studies.

    research psychology cross-sectional
  • What is a key weakness of cross-sectional studies?

    Cohort effects may influence results, attributing differences to generational experiences rather than age.

    research psychology cohort_effects
  • In the ice cream and crime example, what is a confounding variable?

    Temperature, which affects both ice cream sales and crime rates.

    research correlation confounding_variables
  • The ice cream sales example highlights that correlation does not equal causation. Ice cream sales ↑ → crime rates ↑ but does not mean ice cream causes crime. The confounding variable is temperature.

    research correlation causation
  • What is the importance of correlational research?

    It helps identify relationships between variables but cannot confirm causality.

    research psychology correlational
  • What is correlation?

    The relationship between two or more variables that does not imply cause-and-effect.

    statistics correlation
  • What does a correlation coefficient (r) range from?

    -1 to +1

    statistics correlation
  • A coefficient closer to ±1 indicates what?

    A strong relationship between variables.

    statistics correlation
  • What does r = 0 indicate?

    No relationship between the variables.

    statistics correlation
  • In positive correlation, variables move in what direction?

    The same direction.

    statistics correlation
  • Give an example of a positive correlation.

    Ice cream sales and crime rates increasing during hot weather.

    statistics examples
  • In negative correlation, how do variables move?

    In opposite directions.

    statistics correlation
  • What's an example of a negative correlation?

    Less sleep leading to more tiredness.

    statistics examples
  • What does an r value of -0.29 indicate in a study?

    A weak negative correlation between hours of sleep and GPA.

    statistics correlation
  • What is the predictive use of correlation?

    To understand how changes in one variable may relate to changes in another.

    statistics applications
  • What do correlations reveal?

    They reveal relationships, not causes.

    psychology correlation
  • What is a confounding variable?

    A third variable that affects the results.

    psychology research
  • Give an example of a confounding variable in research.

    • Ice cream & crime: temperature is the confound.
    • Healthy people eat more cereal: the cereal isn't causing weight loss.
    psychology examples
  • Illusory correlations are the false belief that two things are related when they are not.

    psychology illusory_correlations
  • What is a common example of an illusory correlation?

    'The full moon makes people act weird.'

    psychology examples illusory_correlations
  • What is confirmation bias?

    Noticing information that supports our beliefs.

    psychology bias
  • What can lead to illusory correlations?

    Relying on easily recalled information.

    psychology correlation
  • What correlation might universities use to predict student success?

    Only attendance records

    Extracurricular activities alone

    Teacher recommendations only

    SAT/ACT correlations with GPA

    psychology education
  • Why should correlations be interpreted with caution?

    Because correlation does not imply causation.

    psychology causation
  • How does the field of psychology help individuals?

    It aids in self-understanding and education.

    psychology importance
  • What method can establish cause and effect in research?

    Experiments are the only method that can establish cause and effect.

    research experiments
  • What is required for conducting an experiment?

    • Testable hypothesis
    • Manipulation of a variable
    • Controls to remove alternative explanations
    research experiments methodology
  • Define an experimental hypothesis.

    A prediction derived from observation or prior research.

    research hypothesis
  • An example of an experimental hypothesis is that technology in classrooms reduces learning.

    research hypothesis
  • What distinguishes the experimental group from the control group?

    The experimental group receives treatment or manipulation, while the control group does not.

    research experiments groups
  • What is an operational definition in research?

    A precise definition of a variable, e.g., 'Learning' = score on a 45-minute test.

    research definitions
  • What does experimenter bias refer to?

    Researcher expectations influencing results.

    bias research
  • What is a placebo effect?

    Expectation alone causes change, e.g., a sugar pill improves mood due to belief.

    placebo psychology
  • In a single-blind study, who knows the group assignments?

    Only the researchers know; participants do not.

    research study_design
  • What distinguishes a double-blind study?

    Neither participants nor researchers know the group assignments.

    research study_design
  • Identify the independent variable (IV) in an experiment.

    The variable manipulated by the researcher to observe effects.

    variables research
  • What is manipulated by the researcher in an experiment?

    The independent variable (IV).

    research variables
  • What does the dependent variable (DV) represent?

    The outcome measured, which depends on the IV.

    research variables
  • What is a sample in research?

    A small subset of the population.

    sampling research
  • What is a random sample?

    Every member has an equal chance of being selected.

    sampling research
  • What does random assignment ensure?

    Groups are similar before the experiment.

    assignment research
  • Why do not all variables allow manipulation?

    Some variables (e.g., gender) lead to quasi-experiments.

    research variables
  • What is one issue in experiments?

    Not all variables can be manipulated.

    issues research
  • In psychology, the independent variable (IV) is manipulated by the researcher while the dependent variable (DV) is the outcome measured and depends on the IV.

    research variables psychology
  • A random sample ensures that each member has an equal chance of being selected, which enhances representativeness in research.

    sampling research
  • Random assignment helps in ensuring that groups are similar before the experiment.

    assignment research
  • What are the ethical limits in psychological research?

    Cannot assign harmful conditions such as abuse or trauma.

    ethics psychology
  • What indicates statistical significance?

    A difference unlikely due to chance, often using p < .05.

    statistics psychology
  • Why does the experimental method allow for causal conclusions?

    • Random assignment
    • Controlled environment
    • Minimized bias
    methodology psychology
  • What is the purpose of peer-reviewed articles?

    • Reviewed by experts
    • Evaluates rationale, method quality, ethical conduct, and valid conclusions.
    research psychology
  • What does peer review ensure in research?

    Ensures clarity, reliability, and avoids poor research.

    research psychology
  • In psychological research, ethical limits include not assigning harmful conditions such as abuse or trauma.

    ethics psychology
  • Statistical significance is determined when the difference is unlikely to be due to chance, often indicated by p < .05.

    statistics psychology
  • The strength of experimental method lies in techniques such as random assignment, a controlled environment, and minimized bias.

    methodology psychology
  • Peer-reviewed articles are crucial as they evaluate the quality of the method, rationale, ethical conduct, and ensure valid conclusions.

    research psychology
  • What is the significance of replication in psychological studies?

    Replication strengthens support for findings; failures can cause doubt about original studies.

    psychology research
  • What crisis occurred in psychology related to replication?

    This crisis, known as the 'replication crisis', questions the reliability of impactful studies.

    psychology crisis
  • What was the vaccine-autism myth?

    Early studies falsely claimed vaccines caused autism due to flawed data and conflicts of interest.

    health psychology
  • What was the media's role in the vaccine-autism myth?

    Media attention led to increased vaccine hesitancy and measles outbreaks.

    health media
  • Define reliability in the context of psychological measures.

    Reliability refers to the consistency of a measure across different trials.

    psychology measurement
  • List the types of reliability.

    • Inter-rater
    • Internal consistency
    psychology measurement
  • Replication is important for the field of psychology because it offers stronger support for findings and reveals potential issues if there are replication failures.

    psychology research
  • The vaccine-autism myth was discredited due to flawed data, conflicts of interest, and resulted in rising cases of measles.

    health psychology
  • Reliability in psychology can be categorized into inter-rater and internal consistency.

    psychology measurement
  • What does test-retest measure?

    Consistency of a test over time.

    psychology research
  • What is the difference between reliability and validity?

    Reliability refers to consistency; validity refers to accuracy.

    psychology research
  • What must a valid measure be?

    It must be reliable.

    psychology research
  • What are the types of validity?

    • Ecological
    • Construct
    • Face
    psychology validity
  • What is the focus of ethics in psychological research?

    Respecting human dignity, safety, and well-being.

    psychology ethics
  • What triggers the establishment of ethical standards in research?

    Past studies that violated ethics.

    psychology ethics
  • What is the function of an Institutional Review Board (IRB)?

    To oversee research involving human participants.

    psychology research
  • Who must have an IRB?

    Any institution receiving federal research support.

    psychology research
  • What is the role of scientists in research?

    They review research proposals to ensure no harm is done, participants' rights are protected, and ethical standards are met.

    ethics research
  • What approval is required before research can begin?

    IRB (Institutional Review Board) approval is required.

    ethics research
  • What should informed consent include?

    • What to expect in the study
    • Potential risks
    • Voluntary participation
    • Right to withdraw anytime
    • Assurance of confidentiality
    ethics informed_consent
  • Who must sign the informed consent for minors?

    Parents or guardians must sign for participants under 18.

    ethics informed_consent
  • When is deception allowed in research?

    Only when necessary to preserve study accuracy and not harmful.

    ethics deception
  • What must participants receive after deception?

    A full debriefing explaining the true purpose of the study, the deception used, and how data will be used.

    ethics deception
  • When was the Tuskegee Syphilis Study conducted?

    From 1932 to 1972.

    history ethics
  • How many men participated in the Tuskegee Syphilis Study?

    600 poor Black men in Alabama.

    history research
  • What promise was made to participants of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study?

    They were promised free medical care, meals, and burial insurance.

    history ethics
  • What happened to the men in the experimental group of the Tuskegee study?

    They were never told they had syphilis and never given treatment.

    history ethics
  • What was the result of untreated syphilis in participants of the Tuskegee study?

    Many men died, infecting their wives and children.

    history outcomes
  • What led to the public outrage regarding the Tuskegee study?

    The discovery of the unethical practices in 1972.

    history ethics
  • What act was inspired by the Tuskegee study in 1974?

    The National Research Act.

    history legislation
  • What is a primary reason for using animals in research?

    Basic processes are similar to humans, making studies ethical.

    ethics animal_research
  • What percentage of animal research uses rodents or birds?

    90%.

    ethics animal_research
  • What is a key requirement for research involving animals?

    It must minimize pain and distress.

    ethics animal_research
  • How should animals be treated during research?

    They must be treated humanely at all times.

    ethics animal_research
  • What does the IACUC stand for?

    Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee

    ethics animal_research
  • Who reviews animal research proposals?

    The IACUC

    ethics animal_research
  • Who are the members of the IACUC?

    • Administrators
    • Scientists
    • Veterinarians
    • Community representatives
    ethics animal_research committee
  • What does the IACUC ensure?

    • Ethical treatment
    • Proper housing and care
    ethics animal_research
  • How often does the IACUC conduct inspections?

    Semi-annually

    ethics animal_research inspections
Study Notes

Overview of Psychology

What Psychology Is

  • Definition: Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior.
  • Methodology: Employs the scientific method, with hypotheses formed for testing within a theoretical framework.
  • Research Process:
  • Hypotheses are tested via observation or experimental methods.
  • Results are published for peer replication.

Science and Its Limitations

  • Nature of Science:
  • Examines observable, measurable phenomena.
  • Cannot address values, beliefs, or subjective experiences.
  • Emphasizes empirical methods over reliance on authority.

Historical Context

  • Psychology emerged as an academic discipline in the late 1800s, coming from a philosophical background and overlapping with biology due to its behavioral roots.

Importance of Studying Psychology

Why Study Psychology?

  • Motivations for Students:
  • To gain a better understanding of themselves and others.
  • To meet general education requirements.
  • To prepare for professional programs like nursing or pre-med.
  • Popularity: Approximately 6% of U.S. bachelor's degrees are in psychology.

Skills Gained

  • Critical Thinking: Develops skepticism, bias recognition, and logical reasoning.
  • Scientific Training: Experience with research methodologies.
  • Communication Skills: Improvement in conveying ideas clearly.

Modern Psychology Overview

Contemporary Psychology

  • Diversity: Modern psychology encompasses various historical perspectives including behaviorism, cognitive psychology, and more.
  • Prominent Organizations:
  • APA: Largest organization for psychology professionals, with numerous divisions.
  • APS: Focuses on scientific research in the field.

Major Subfields

  1. Biopsychology: Examines the biological foundations of behavior.
  2. Evolutionary Psychology: Studies behavior evolution and genetic influences.
  3. Cognitive Psychology: Focuses on mental processes like memory and problem-solving.
  4. Developmental Psychology: Explores human growth across the lifespan.
  5. Clinical Psychology: Addresses diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders.

Research Methods in Psychology

Importance of Scientific Research

  • Role of Science: Provides evidence-based understanding of behavior, countering superstition and misconceptions.

Research Approaches

  • Main types of research methods include:
  • Observational Studies: Naturalistic observations to understand behavior in context.
  • Surveys: Large sample data collection, may be biased.
  • Experiments: Controlled settings to establish causality.

Correlation vs. Causation

  • Correlation indicates relationships but does not imply causation (e.g., ice cream sales and crime rates example).

Ethics in Psychology

Ethical Standards

  • Institutional Review Boards (IRB): Assess research proposals to protect participant rights and ensure safety.
  • Informed Consent: Participants must be fully informed about the study.
  • Deception: Allowed only if necessary and disclosed afterward.

Animal Research Ethics

  • Animal Care: IACUC reviews proposals to ensure humane treatment of animals used in research.