Introduction to Psychology: The Science of Mind and Behavior

Key Points

• Complexity of the Mind

  • Human mind is the most complicated piece of the universe that humans know.
  • Many aspects remain mysterious and elusive.
  • Our brains might not be complex enough to fully understand themselves.

• Definition of Psychology

  • Derived from Latin for "study of the soul."
  • Modern definition: science of behavior and mental processes.

Historical Background

• Early Thinkers and Developments

  • Aristotle incorrectly believed human consciousness was in the heart.
  • Ancient Chinese conducted the first psychological exams for public officials.
  • Persian doctor Rhazes described mental illness and treated patients in early psych wards.

• Big Questions in Psychology

  • Why do humans commit horrible acts and recognize their wrongness?
  • Free will vs. environmental and biological influences.
  • What is mental illness and how can it be treated?
  • Questions about consciousness and self-awareness.

Key Figures and Theories

• Wilhelm Wundt and Structuralism

  • Established the first psychology lab in 1879 in Germany.
  • Focused on breaking down mental processes into basic components.
  • Approach relied on introspection but was ultimately too subjective.

• William James and Functionalism

  • Focused on the purpose of behaviors and mental processes.
  • Influenced by Charles Darwin's theories on adaptive behaviors.

• Sigmund Freud and Psychoanalysis

  • Developed theories on unconscious motives shaping personality.
  • Introduced techniques like free association for uncovering repressed feelings.
  • Believed in healing mental disorders through talk therapy.

Evolution of Psychology

• Behaviorism

  • Focused on observable behavior.
  • Key figures: Ivan Pavlov, John B. Watson, B. F. Skinner.

• Psychodynamic Theories

  • Emphasized the influence of early experiences and unconscious processes.

• Other Major Schools of Thought

  • Humanistic psychology: focuses on personal growth.
  • Cognitive science and neuroscience: study mind from different perspectives.

Modern Psychology

• Integrative Science
  • Combines various schools of thought and methodologies.
  • Observes and records behavior while also considering internal mental processes.

Closing Thoughts

• Psychology remains a diverse and integrative field asking interesting questions.
• The human brain is the most complex known physical object, inviting continuous study.
• Upcoming lessons will explore how psychology applies to minds, lives, and understanding of ourselves and others.