Chapter 1: The Evolution of Psychology

1.1 Psychology’s Early History

• A New Science is Born

  • Contributions of Wilhelm Wundt to psychology.
  • Establishment of psychology as a distinct scientific discipline.

• The Battle of the "Schools": Structuralism vs. Functionalism

  • Key figures: Edward Titchener (Structuralism) and William James (Functionalism).
  • Structuralism focused on introspection and the basic elements of consciousness.
  • Functionalism emphasized the purpose of consciousness and behavior.

• Freud Brings the Unconscious into the Picture

  • Introduction of psychoanalytic theory.
  • Exploration of the unconscious mind.
  • Controversy surrounding Freud's ideas.

• Watson Alters Psychology’s Course with Behaviorism

  • Emphasis on observable behavior over introspection.
  • John B. Watson's impact on psychology.

• Skinner Questions Free Will with Behaviorism Flourishing

  • B.F. Skinner's contributions to behaviorism.
  • Focus on reinforcement and behavior modification.

• The Humanistic Revolt

  • Emergence of humanism as a response to behaviorism and psychoanalysis.
  • Key figures: Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow.
  • Focus on human potential and self-actualization.

1.2 Psychology’s Modern History

• Psychology Comes of Age as a Profession

  • Development of psychology as a recognized profession.

• Renewed Interest in Cognition and Physiology

  • Cognitive perspective emphasizing mental processes.

• Increased Interest in Cultural Diversity

  • Western psychology's growing focus on cultural variables.

• The Emergence of Evolutionary Psychology

  • Focus on adaptation and evolutionary processes in behavior.

• Positive Psychology Movement

  • Emphasis on strengths and well-being.

1.3 Psychology Today: Vigorous and Diversified

• Research Areas in Psychology

  • Major research areas include developmental, social, experimental, physiological, and cognitive psychology.

• Professional Specialties in Psychology

  • Clinical, counseling, school, and industrial/organizational psychology.

1.4 Seven Unifying Themes

• Themes Related to Psychology as a Field of Study

  • Empiricism and the scientific approach.

• Themes Related to Psychology’s Subject Matter

  • Diversity, culture, and the role of environment.

1.5 Personal Application: Improving Academic Performance

• Developing Sound Habits

  • Strategies for effective study and learning.

• Improving Your Reading

  • Techniques for better comprehension.

• Getting More Out of Lectures

  • Active listening and note-taking skills.

1.6 Critical Thinking Application

• Developing Critical Thinking Skills
  • Importance of critical thinking in psychology.
  • Skills and attitudes necessary for critical thinking.

Key Learning Goals

• Understanding key historical developments in psychology.
• Applying psychological concepts and theories to scenarios.
• Developing critical thinking and evaluation skills.

Key Terms

• Notable figures: Wilhelm Wundt, Edward Titchener, William James, Mary Whiton Calkins, Margaret Floy Washburn, Leta Stetter Hollingsworth, Sigmund Freud, John B. Watson, B.F. Skinner, Carl Rogers, Abraham Maslow.
• Important concepts: Structuralism, Functionalism, Unconscious, Behaviorism, Humanism, Cognition, Evolutionary psychology, Positive psychology.
• Areas of study: Clinical psychology, Educational psychology, Health psychology, Developmental psychology, Social psychology, Experimental psychology, Physiological psychology, Cognitive psychology.
• Methodological concepts: Empiricism, Theory, Culture, Critical thinking.