Psychology 1000 Chapter Notes - Chapter 2: Gestalt Psychology, Naturalistic Observation, Empiricism

• School: Western University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: Psychology 1000
• Professor: Terry Biggs

Document Summary

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour. The term behaviour refers to actions and responses that can be observed and measured directly as well as mental processes such as thoughts and feelings that must be inferred from directly observable responses. Basic research is the quest for knowledge for its own sake, whereas applied research involves the application of knowledge derived from basic research to solve practical problems. The primary goals of psychological science are to describe, explain, predict and influence behaviour and to apply the psychological knowledge to enhance human welfare. Perspectives on behaviour: guides to understanding and discovery. Several perspectives have shaped psychology"s scientific growth. Each perspective views human nature differently and focuses on different causes of behaviour. With roots in physiology, medicine and darwin"s theory of evolution, the biological perspective examines how bodily functions regulate behaviour. Physiological psychologists study brain processes and other physiological functions that underlie our behaviour, sensory experiences, emotions and thoughts.