1. Psychology’s Big Question… Nature versus Nurture 1

2. Continuing Controversy… Relative contributions of biology and environment “Nurture works on what nature endows” Every psychological event is simultaneously a biological event. 2

3. As a Result of this Controversy: Psychology has many levels of analysis. Integrated “biopsychosocial” approach Looks at biological, psychological & social-cultural factors that influence any behavior or mental process 3

4. Let’s Put What You Are Learning to Work! As we learn about the various subfields of psychology, think about Ben in the case history report you read. 4

5. Current Perspectives in Psychology Neuroscience: – How does the body and brain enable emotions, memories & sensory experiences? 5

6. Current Perspectives in Psychology Evolutionary: – How does the natural selection of traits promote the survival of genes? 6

7. Current Perspectives in Psychology Behavior genetics: – How much to our genes and environment influence our individual differences? 7

8. Current Perspectives in Psychology Psychodynamic: – How does behavior spring from unconscious drives and conflicts? 8

9. Current Perspectives in Psychology Behavioral: – How do we learn observable responses? 9

10. Current Perspectives in Psychology Cognitive: – How do we encode, process, store and retrieve information? 10

11. Current Perspectives in Psychology Social-cultural: – How does behavior and thinking vary across situations and cultures? 11

12. Methodology in Psychology Basic Research: – Scientific work that adds to the knowledge base without concern for practical application 12

13. Methodology in Psychology Applied Research: – Scientific work that uses the knowledge from basic research to tackle personal problems. 13

14. Those Who “Practice” Psychology Counseling psychologist: – Possesses a PhD – Helps individuals cope with challenges and crises – Help individuals improve personal and social functioning. 14

15. Those Who “Practice” Psychology Clinical psychologist: – Possesses a PhD – Assesses and treats mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders 15

16. Those Who “Practice” Psychology Psychiatrist: – Possesses an MD – Has completed a residency in psychiatry – Licensed to prescribe drugs – Treat both the emotional and physical causes of psychological disorders 16