HPS111
What is the general definition of psychology?
The scientific study of behaviour and mental processes.
What makes psychology a science?
It relies on observation, theory development, hypotheses, and research interpretation.
What are behaviours?
Observable actions and responses to the environment.
What are mental processes?
Internal psychological processes such as thoughts, memory, perception and emotion.
Why do psychologists study influences on behaviour?
To understand why people behave the way they do and what functions behaviours may serve.
Why are mental processes harder to study than behaviour?
They are internal and not directly observable.
How are psychology and mental health related?
Mental health is one aspect of psychology; understanding it requires knowledge of biological, psychological and social factors.
Why must psychologists understand brain and nervous system functioning?
To understand how these systems influence development, wellbeing and behaviour.
Which era first conceptualised psychology?
Greek philosophers (400-320BC)
What major shift occurred between 1500–1700?
The rise of modern philosophy and scientific thinking.
Which figures shaped psychology in the 1800–1900s?
Darwin, Freud, Binet and others
What does the theory of evolution suggest about behaviour?
Traits and behaviousrs that help survival are passed down through generations.
What did Freud propose about human behaviour?
It is influence by unconscious drives and childhood ecperiences.
What is classical conditioning?
Learning through association (Pavlov)
What is operant conditioning?
Learning through reinforcement and punishment (Skinner)
What is the focus of humanistic psychology?
Personal growth and reaching one's potential
What do cognitive theories study?
Thinking, memory, perception and learning
What does the sociocultural perspective emphasise?
The influence of culture, norms and social groups on behaviour.
Why is early psychological research criticised for bias?
It was based mostly on white, male participants and researchers.
Why is cultural context important in applying psychological techniques?
Methods like CBT may not work the same across different cultural groups.
What three factors interact in the biopsychosocial model?
Biological - brain, neurotransmitters, genetics
Psychological - personality, cognition, emotion
Social factors - identity, culture, relationships, support
Name three career domains for psychology graduates.
Clinical psychologist, counsellor, human resources.
What is required to become a clinical psychologist?
Undergrad + honours + clinical masters or doctorate (6–10 years total).
What is required to become a registered psychologist?
Undergrad + honours + professional practice masters (5–8 years total).