PS295 Chapter Notes - Chapter 1: Wilhelm Wundt, American Psychological Association
Chap 1:
The Beginnings of Behavioural Research
-Aristotle sometmes credited as being first to systematically address basic questions about
human nature but more ancient writings from India offer equally sophisticated insights
-scientific psychology was born during last quarter of 19th century through influence of
Wilhelm Wundt, William James, John Watson, G Stanley Hall etc
Wilhelm Wundt and the Founding of Scientific Psychology:
-first research psycholgist
-before him it was mostly pilosphers, theologians, biologists, physicians, or physiologists
-established one of first 2 psych labs in 1879 at Uni of Leipzig
-William James established a lab at Harvard about the same time (first in US)
-founded scientific journal in 81 for publication of research in experimental psych
G Stanley Hall:
-started American Psychological Association
-considered founder of child psychology
Goals of Behavioural Research
Basic research:
-conducted to understand psychological processes w/o regard for whether or not the
Document Summary
Aristotle sometmes credited as being first to systematically address basic questions about human nature but more ancient writings from india offer equally sophisticated insights. Scientific psychology was born during last quarter of 19th century through influence of. Wilhelm wundt, william james, john watson, g stanley hall etc. Wilhelm wundt and the founding of scientific psychology: Before him it was mostly pilosphers, theologians, biologists, physicians, or physiologists. Established one of first 2 psych labs in 1879 at uni of leipzig. William james established a lab at harvard about the same time (first in us) Founded scientific journal in 81 for publication of research in experimental psych. Conducted to understand psychological processes w/o regard for whether or not the knowledge is immediately applicable. Primary goal is to increase our knowledge rather than solve a particular problem. To find solutions for problems rather than enhance general knowledge. Using behavioural research methods to assess effects of social or institutional programs on behaviour.
