Overview
This lecture reviewed the main psychological perspectives students need to know for AP Psychology, explaining their key ideas and differences.
Introduction to Psychological Perspectives
- AP Psychology involves multiple units with recurring scientific practices and foundational research methods.
- "Unit Zero" reviews the core psychological perspectives and concepts used throughout the course.
Psychodynamic Perspective
- Developed by Sigmund Freud as the psychoanalytic theory.
- Focuses on the unconscious mind and early childhood experiences.
- Uses techniques like free association to access unconscious thoughts and motives.
Behavioral Perspective
- Founded by John B. Watson, Ivan Pavlov, and B.F. Skinner.
- Emphasizes the study of observable behavior and rejects studying hidden mental processes.
- Focuses on how reinforcement, punishment, and modeling influence behavior.
Sociocultural Perspective
- Examines how culture, societal norms, and group influences shape individual behavior.
- Considers the impact of family, religion, community, and society on decisions and actions.
- Important for understanding differences in behavior across cultures.
Humanistic Perspective
- Emphasizes individual growth, free will, and personal potential.
- Led by Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow; focuses on self-actualization.
- Often used in therapy to help people achieve personal growth and improve self-esteem.
Cognitive Perspective
- Studies how people interpret, process, store, and remember information.
- Focuses on internal thought processes and their influence on behavior.
- Applied in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Biological Perspective
- Investigates the links between biology and psychological processes.
- Focuses on the role of the brain, nervous system, hormones, and neurotransmitters.
- Used to understand mental disorders and the effects of medication.
Biopsychosocial Perspective
- Integrates biological, psychological, and social factors to explain behavior and mental processes.
- Encourages consideration of emotional state and social environment in treatment.
Evolutionary Perspective
- Examines how natural selection and adaptation have shaped behavior and mental traits.
- Based on Charles Darwin’s theories.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Free association — a technique where a word or image triggers related thoughts or ideas, used to explore the unconscious.
- Self-actualization — motivation to fulfill one’s full potential.
- Conditioning — learning process involving reinforcement or punishment.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) — treatment combining cognitive and behavioral approaches to address thoughts and behaviors.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Download and complete the guided notes linked in the video description.
- Apply each psychological perspective to real-life scenarios using the Ultimate Review Packet (Unit Zero).
- Take the practice quiz on perspectives for further review.