Learning Objectives
7 objectives- Understand the fundamental concepts and historical development of psychology.
- Analyze key research methods and ethical considerations in psychological studies.
- Explain the biological bases underlying human behavior and mental processes.
- Describe sensory processes and how perception organizes sensory information.
- Explore major psychological theories related to learning, memory, cognition, and development.
- Examine social influences on behavior and the nature of psychological disorders.
- Apply psychological principles to real-world contexts and professional fields.
Content Outline
PreviewUnit 1843: Introduction to Psychology
1. What is Psychology?
- Definition of Psychology
- Scientific study of mind and behavior
- History of Psychology
- Early roots: philosophy and physiology
- Structuralism, Functionalism
- Behaviorism and Cognitive Revolution
- Major Perspectives in Psychology
- Biological, Behavioral, Cognitive, Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Sociocultural
- Goals of Psychological Research
- Describe, Explain, Predict, Control behavior and mental processes
2. Research Methods in Psychology
- Types of Research Methods
- Experimental Research
- Correlational Research
- Descriptive Research (Case studies, surveys, naturalistic observation)
- Research Design Process
- Formulating hypotheses
- Sampling and participant selection
- Data collection and analysis
- Ethics in Psychological Research
- Informed consent
- Confidentiality
- Protection from harm
- Institutional Review Boards (IRBs)
3. Biological Bases of Behavior
- Structure and Function of the Brain
- Major brain regions: cortex, limbic system, brainstem
- Hemispheric specialization
- Nervous System
- Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems
- Neurons and neural communication
- Genetics and Behavior
- Role of heredity
- Gene-environment interactions
- Neurotransmitters and Behavior
- Key neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin, etc.)
- Impact on mood, cognition, and behavior
4. Sensation and Perception
- Sensation: Receiving Sensory Input
- Sensory organs and receptors
- Thresholds: absolute and difference
- Perception: Interpreting Sensory Information
- Perceptual organization
- Depth perception, motion perception
- Sensory Modalities
- Vision: structure of the eye, visual processing
- Hearing: auditory system, sound perception
- Other senses: taste, touch, smell
5. Learning and Behaviorism
- Principles of Learning
- Classical Conditioning (Pavlov)
- Operant Conditioning (Skinner)
- Observational Learning (Bandura)
- Behaviorism Contributions
- Focus on observable behavior
- Applications in therapy and education
6. Memory and Cognition
- Memory Processes
- Encoding, Storage, Retrieval
- Types of memory: sensory, short-term, long-term
- Cognitive Processes
- Problem-solving strategies
- Decision-making processes
- Language and communication
7. Developmental Psychology
- Lifespan Development
- Physical development
- Cognitive development
- Socioemotional development
- Theories of Development
- Piaget’s cognitive stages
- Erikson’s psychosocial stages
- Attachment theory
- Nature vs. Nurture Debate
8. Social Psychology
- Social Influence
- Social perception and attribution
- Attitudes and attitude change
- Conformity and obedience (Asch, Milgram)
- Group Dynamics
- Group behavior and roles
- Prejudice and discrimination
9. Abnormal Psychology
- Psychological Disorders Overview
- Definition and classification
- DSM-5 overview
- Categories of Disorders
- Mood disorders (depression, bipolar)
- Anxiety disorders (phobias, PTSD)
- Schizophrenia and psychotic disorders
- Personality disorders
- Diagnosis and Treatment
- Psychological assessment
- Therapeutic approaches
10. Applications of Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Counseling Psychology
- Industrial-Organizational Psychology
- Sports Psychology
- Health Psychology
- Psychologists’ Role in Society
- Promoting well-being
- Addressing societal issues
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