1.1 What Is Psychology? - Psychology 2e | OpenStax

Definition of Psychology

• Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior.
• Involves using the scientific method to acquire knowledge.
  • Researchers propose a hypothesis as a tentative explanation.
  • Hypotheses fit into the context of scientific theories.
  • Theories are broad explanations consistently supported by evidence.
  • Researchers conduct experiments and publish findings for replication.

Characteristics of Psychological Science

• Empirical: based on measurable data.
• Science focuses on matter and energy, limiting understanding of non-material concepts like thoughts.
• Relies on observation and experimentation rather than just logical arguments.

Evolution of Psychology

• Recognized as an academic discipline in the late 1800s.
• Initially part of philosophy, reflecting on mind's workings.
• Aspects of psychology relate to natural sciences (e.g., biology).
• Psychology is also considered a social science due to the influence of interactions on behavior.

Why Study Psychology?

• Students often take psychology to help others, learn about themselves, or fulfill academic requirements.
• Psychology is a popular major in the U.S., accounting for about 6% of all bachelor degrees.
• Notable psychology majors: Mark Zuckerberg, Jon Stewart, Natalie Portman, Wes Craven.

Merits of an Education in Psychology

• Develops critical thinking skills.
  • Involves skepticism, recognizing biases, logical thinking, and questioning.
  • Enhances scientific literacy and information evaluation.
• Improves communication skills.
• Provides understanding of biological, environmental, and experiential influences on behavior.
• Recognizes diversity across individuals and cultures.

Additional Resources

• A video for considerations before majoring in psychology is available.

Citation and Attribution

• The content is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License.
• Textbooks from OpenStax are free to access and redistribute with proper attribution.