AP Psychology: Introduction to Psychological Perspectives

Overview

• Introduction to the Mr. Sin Channel and AP Psychology review.
• AP Psychology divided into five units, but video introduces "Unit Zero."
• Purpose: Familiarize with scientific practices and research methods foundational to the course.

Psychological Perspectives

Psychodynamic Perspective

• Originated by Sigmund Freud.
• Focuses on the unconscious mind and early childhood experiences.
• Personality shaped by unconscious motives.
• Methods: Analyzing dreams, free association.

Behaviorism

• Emerged as a rejection of psychodynamic perspective.
• Key figures: John B. Watson, Ivan Pavlov, B.F. Skinner.
• Focus on observable behavior.
• Emphasizes environmental impact on behavior through reinforcement and punishment.

Sociocultural Perspective

• Examines cultural influences on behavior.
• Focus on cultural norms and societal expectations.
• Analyzes how culture shapes a person's behavior.

Humanistic Perspective

• Led by Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow.
• Emphasizes human potential and personal growth.
• Focus on free will and self-actualization.

Cognitive Perspective

• Focuses on information processing, storage, and influence on behavior.
• Challenges with observing thought processes objectively.
• Used in cognitive behavioral therapy.

Biological Perspective

• Explores connections between biological and psychological processes.
• Concentrates on brain, neurotransmitters, and nervous system.

Biopsychosocial Perspective

• Integrates biological, psychological, and social factors.
• Encourages holistic understanding of mental processes and behaviors.

Evolutionary Perspective

• Based on Charles Darwin’s theories.
• Considers natural selection's impact on behavior.

Course Engagement

• Encourages active learning.
• Use guided notes and practice scenarios.
• Available resources: Ultimate Review Packet, free preview.

Next Steps

• Upcoming topics: Influence of cultural norms, expectations, and biases on research.