PSYCH 7A Study Guide - Midterm Guide: Psychophysics, Angular Gyrus, Afterimage
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PSYCH 7A Full Course Notes
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Document Summary
Psychology is the study of mental processes and behaviors. Behavior is the noticeable and observable reaction by an organism, whereas mental processes are usually the internal and private experiences an organism has, which are not easily seen or observed. The main goal of psychology is to describe, predict and control the variety of behaviors and mental processes. This is achieved by formulating theories, which are basically statements which propose relationships between events. A good theory is one which can make predications of what is to happen next, given a certain situation or event. Data is then collected to understand whether the prediction really happens, so to basically agree or to refute a certain theory. Psychologists have a threefold purpose: research: is to basically formulate theories to describe these behaviors and processes. In ancient cultures, psychology often involved the existence of supernatural beings like spirits and gods, but the most notable foundation of psychology can be traced back to the greeks.
