1. Prologue Psychology 8 th ed. David G. Myers

2. Meaning of Psychology Psyche Greek origins Meaning “breath of life” Translated as “Mind” Logos Meaning “knowledge”

3. Defining Psychology The most common definition: The study of human and animal behavior and mental processes –Behavior=any action or activity –Mental process=thinking, learning, memories, day dreaming, etc. The definition has evolved over the past 150 years.

4. Roots of Psychology Began with Wilhelm Wundt –Philosopher and Physiologist –Opened first lab to study psych in 1879 –Used introspection to study his subjects 1890’s-1920 - Structuralism –Mind/mental process was the main area of focus –Studied the unobservable –Sigmund Freud, Jean Piaget 1920-1960 - Functionalism –Studying Behaviors became the main area of focus –Studied observable actions and behaviors –John Watson, B.F. Skinner 1960s-present –Behavior and Mental process became popular –Carl Rogers, Abraham Maslow

5. Research Basic Research –Used to gain knowledge –Example: Studying the effects of concussions Applied Research –Practical knowledge, solve problems –Example: How to boost work production in a factory

6. Perspectives (Sub-Fields) Different approaches to studying psychology Psychologists tend to study from one perspective or develop their own using ideas from many Some perspectives contradict each other Not all will fit a given situation/topic

7. Biological/Neuroscience Also known as Biopsychological Viewed in terms of biological response Brain, chemicals, neurotransmitters Example: Lack of serotonin in the brain Evolutionary Genes that have been passed on from our ancestors that have promoted survival of the species Example: Fear of bugs, heights, etc in order to survive Perspectives/Sub-Fields

8. Behavior Genetics Product of a combination of genetics and environment Genetic predisposition and environmental factors Example: Parents may have depression plus you may be living in poverty Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic Behaviors come from unconscious drives, conflicts, impulses and desires Unaware/below the surface Example: Abused as a young child, don’t remember it but it is affects them/maybe has a fear of men and don’t know why

9. Behavioral Viewed as a product of a learned response Example: Learned if they act sad people will give them attention Cognitive Product of internal thought process Internal dialogue Example: Telling your self that you are worthless and that no one likes you

10. Social-Cultural Product of social/cultural pressure and expectations Example: Not meeting the expectations of your social/cultural group – being married with children by 30 or marrying someone of a different religion