How Theories Are Used in Psychology

Understanding Psychological Theories

• Psychological theories are based on hypotheses backed by evidence to describe and predict human behavior.
• Two key components:
  1. Describe a behavior.
  2. Make predictions about future behaviors.
• In science, a theory is testable and is supported or refuted by empirical research.
• Theories can be refined, modified, or rejected based on new evidence.

Major Psychological Theories

Behavioral Theories

• Focus on learning through conditioning (environment interactions, associations, rewards, and punishments).
• Advocated by John B. Watson and B.F. Skinner.
• Behavioral techniques are used by therapists today.

Cognitive Theories

• Focus on internal states: motivation, problem-solving, decision-making, thinking, and attention.
• Emphasize how mental processes affect behavior.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an application of cognitive theories.

Humanistic Theories

• Emphasize free will and human potential.
• Focus on the basic goodness of humans and holistic approach.
• Key theories include Maslow's hierarchy of needs and Roger's unconditional positive regard.

Psychodynamic Theories

• Examine unconscious processes shaping emotions and behaviors.
• Associated with Sigmund Freud - focuses on id, ego, and superego.

Biological Theories

• Attribute behavior to biological causes (influence of genetics and evolution).

Types of Psychological Theories

Developmental Theories

• Framework for understanding human growth and learning, such as Erikson's psychosocial development.

Grand Theories

• Comprehensive ideas from major thinkers like Freud and Piaget.
• Often used as a foundation for further research.

Mini-Theories

• Explain specific aspects of development, like self-esteem formation.

Emergent Theories

• Recently developed, combining several mini-theories, e.g., Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory.

Purpose of Psychological Theories

• Provide insights into the progression of psychological thought.
• Enhance understanding of current theories and scientific explanations of behavior.

Examples of Psychological Theories

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

• Pyramid of needs from physiological to self-actualization.
• Basic needs must be satisfied before higher-level needs.

Piaget's Theory of Cognitive Development

• Four stages of children's cognitive development: sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, formal operational.

Freud's Psychoanalytic Theory

• Personality composed of id, ego, and superego.

Takeaways

• Understanding psychological theories enriches knowledge of human behavior and thought processes.