Psychological Theories Overview

Psychoanalytic Theory

• Founder: Sigmund Freud
• Core Idea: Behavior and feelings are influenced by unconscious thoughts, memories, and desires.
• Metaphor: Mind as an iceberg—most of it hidden (unconscious).
• Influence: Early experiences, especially with parents and family, shape later behaviors and personality.

Behavioral Theory

• Key Psychologists: John B. Watson, B.F. Skinner
• Core Idea: Behaviors are learned through interaction with the environment.
• Mechanism: Shaped by rewards and punishments.
  • Positive outcomes (e.g., a treat) increase behavior repetition.
  • Negative outcomes (e.g., scolding) decrease behavior occurrence.
• Focus: Observable behaviors rather than internal thoughts/feelings.

Humanistic Theory

• Key Figures: Carl Rogers, Abraham Maslow
• Core Idea: Emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization.
• Assumptions: People are inherently good and can achieve full potential in the right environment.
• Key Components: Self-esteem, self-concept, and unconditional positive regard.

Cognitive Theory

• Associated Psychologists: Jean Piaget, Aaron Beck
• Core Idea: Examines how we think, perceive, and remember information.
• Focus: Role of thoughts in determining behaviors and emotions.
• Example: Changing negative thought patterns can change behavior and improve emotional well-being.

Biological Theory

• Core Idea: Focuses on the physical and biological basis of behavior.
• Components: Brain structures, neurotransmitters, genetics, bodily processes.
• Emphasis: Mental processes and behaviors have a physiological basis.

Evolutionary Theory

• Influence: Charles Darwin
• Core Idea: Behaviors and mental processes evolved to solve survival and reproduction problems.
• Mechanism: Natural selection shapes behaviors enhancing survival and reproduction.

Social Learning Theory

• Proponent: Albert Bandura
• Core Idea: Importance of observing and imitating others' behaviors.
• Concept: Self-efficacy—belief in one's ability to succeed.
• Influence: Social influences and observational learning shape behavior.

Developmental Theory

• Focus: How people grow and change over their lives.
• Includes Theories:
  • Jean Piaget’s stages of cognitive development.
  • Erik Erikson’s psychosocial stages.
• Study: Cognitive and social milestones throughout life stages.

Sociocultural Theory

• Developer: Lev Vygotsky
• Core Idea: Impact of social interactions and cultural context on development.
• Concepts:
  • Learning as a social process.
  • Zone of proximal development—tasks a child can perform with guidance.