PSYC 100 Lecture Notes - Pineal Gland, Empiricism, Edward B. Titchener

• School: Simon Fraser University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 100
• Professor: Sherri Atwood

Document Summary

Psychology scientific study of behaviour and the mind (or mental processes: scientific answering questions objectively based on observation, data, and established methods. Empirical methods: behaviour directly observable behaviour, mind internal thoughts, feelings, sensations, perceptions, subjective experiences only indirectly observed. 4 goals of psych: to describe behaviour and mental processes, to explain/understand causes of these behaviours, to predict behaviours, to influence/control behaviours under certain conditions, empirical research relies on or is derived from observation, experimentation, measurements. Psychology may help us to look for alternative explanations, other perspectives. Critical thinking questions what"s the claim, is the source credible, what"s the evidence for that claim, are there other explanations, what"s the appropriate conclusion. Levels of analysis: biological genetics, neurotransmitters, brain areas affected, environment childhood, abuse, social support, cultural norms, coping skills, stress levels, psychological pessimistic thinking style, heightened sensitivity due to childhood experiences may lead to different reactions. Mind and body are separate but interact through pineal gland.