Introduction to Psychology Chapter 1

Jun 17, 2024

Introduction to Psychology: Chapter 1

Topics Covered

  • Definition of Psychology
  • Brief History of Psychology
  • Major Fields of Modern Psychology
  • Career Paths in Psychology

Definition of Psychology

  • Psychology: Scientific study of mind and behavior
    • Encompasses all aspects of the mind and behavior
    • Broad field

Research Methodology

  • Theory → Hypothesis → Experiments/Research Studies
  • Data Collection: Empirical methods (observational data)
  • Empirical: Knowledge obtained based on observations (visual, interviews, questionnaires)

Importance of Learning Psychology

  • Better understanding of self and others
  • Show compassion and understand other perspectives
  • Development of critical thinking skills
  • Understanding interaction between biology, genetics, environment, and experiences

History of Psychology

  • Rooted in Philosophy: Collection of data to learn about human mind/behavior
  • Founders: William Wundt and William James

Key Theories

  1. Structuralism (Wundt): Understanding the structure and characteristics of the mind through introspection
  2. Functionalism (James): How behaviors help organisms fit into their environment

Key Figures

  • Sigmund Freud: Developed psychoanalytic theory, emphasized unconscious mind
    • Access unconscious through dreams, slips of the tongue
    • Challenges: Difficult to measure scientifically

Major Divisions of Modern Psychology

  1. Gestalt Psychology: Experience as a whole, leading to humanistic psychology
  2. Behaviorism (Watson, Pavlov, Skinner): All behavior is learned and observable
  3. Humanism (Maslow, Rogers): Belief in the potential for good in all individuals
  4. Cognitive Psychology (Chomsky): Understanding mental functions and thought processes
  5. Feminist and Cultural Psychology: Influence of gender and culture in behavior

Subdivisions in Contemporary Psychology

  • Biopsychology and Evolutionary Psychology: Influence of biology and evolution
  • Sensation and Perception: Influence of senses and perception on behavior
  • Cognitive Psychology: Thought processes
  • Developmental Psychology: Development over time
  • Personality Psychology: Characteristics of personality
  • Social Psychology: Social environment’s influence
  • Industrial Organizational Psychology: Interaction with technology
  • Health Psychology: Influence of physical health
  • Sports and Exercise Psychology: Importance of sports
  • Clinical Psychology: Treatment of mental illness

Career Paths in Psychology

  • Clinical Psychology: Treatment of mental illnesses
  • Therapist: Counseling without medical context
  • Academia: Professorship, research
  • Research: Applied in various fields (e.g., tech companies like HP, Facebook)
  • Social Work, Human Resources, Sales, Marketing: Application of psychology in various industries

Miscellaneous Details

  • Education requirements vary based on career choice (Bachelor's, Master’s, PhD, PsyD, MFT)
  • Reach out to professor for guidance on career paths and degree requirements