- Psychology began as a branch of Philosophy.
- In 1879, Wilhelm Wundt established the first psychology lab, making psychology a science.
- Structuralism studied conscious experience using introspection.
- Functionalism focused on the functions of consciousness (William James).
- Psychoanalysis (Freud) emphasized the unconscious mind.
- Behaviourism (Watson) focused on observable behaviour.
- Humanistic psychology (Rogers) stressed free will and self-actualisation.
- Cognitivism (Neisser) studies mental processes like memory and thinking.
Definitions [3]
Define science.
The word ‘Science’ is derived from the Latin word ‘Scientia’ which means ‘knowledge’. Science is the pursuit and application of knowledge and understanding of the natural and social world following a systematic methodology based on evidence. Empirical evidence, objectivity, scientific causality, systematic exploration, and replication are key components of science.
Definition: Survey
A survey is defined as a research method used for collecting data from a pre-defined group of respondents (sample) to gain information and insights on various topics of interest, such as political opinion, consumers’ preferences, etc.
Define the following concept:
Replicability
Replicability is the possibility to repeat research or its findings in order to test its validity.
Key Points
Key Points: Key Features of Science
- Science means systematic knowledge based on observation and evidence.
- It is based on empirical evidence, gathered through observation and experiments.
- Science follows objectivity, free from personal bias and prejudice.
- It studies cause-and-effect relationships between variables (scientific causality).
- It follows a systematic procedure such as problem identification, hypothesis, data collection, and analysis.
- Scientific findings must be replicable, meaning they can be repeated under the same conditions.
- Science aims at prediction by explaining and understanding phenomena.
Key Points: History of Psychology as a Science
Key Points: Research Methods in Psychology> Experimental Method
- The experimental method is a scientific method used to study behaviour through systematic steps, such as identifying the problem, forming a hypothesis, conducting the experiment, and drawing conclusions.
- It is objective and involves accurate observation under controlled conditions.
- It helps in establishing cause-and-effect relationships between variables.
- The findings of experiments are verifiable and can be tested again.
Key Points: Research Methods in Psychology> Survey Method
- The survey method is a research technique used to collect information from a selected group of people (sample).
- It gathers data on opinions, attitudes, preferences, and behaviours.
- Tools used in surveys include questionnaires, interviews, rating scales, and inventories.
- It is an economical and efficient method of data collection.
- Surveys can be conducted through email, telephone, or direct interaction.
Key Points: Research Methods in Psychology> Observation Method
- The observation method is used to study behaviour when experiments cannot be conducted.
- Behaviour is observed either in a natural setting (natural observation) or in a laboratory (controlled observation).
- It is widely used by child, clinical, and social psychologists.
- Observation becomes scientific when it is systematic and conducted with a clear research purpose.
Key Points: Research Methods in Psychology> Case Study Method
- The case study method is a qualitative research method used mainly by clinical psychologists.
- It involves an in-depth study of an individual, group, or specific event.
- Information is collected from multiple sources such as family, teachers, peers, interviews, and tests.
- It provides detailed descriptive data and helps in forming hypotheses for further research.
Key Points: Research Methods in Psychology> Correlation Studies
- Correlational studies use correlation to examine the relationship between two or more variables.
- Correlation measures how changes in one variable are associated with changes in another variable.
- The correlation coefficient ranges from -1.00 to +1.00 and shows the direction and strength of the relationship.
- A positive correlation means both variables increase or decrease together.
- A negative correlation means one variable increases while the other decreases; zero correlation means no relationship.
Key Points: Challenges in Establishing Psychology as a Science
- Psychology is considered to be in a pre-paradigmatic state, as it lacks a single unified theory accepted by all experts.
- Some areas rely on subjective methods like surveys and introspection, raising issues of objectivity and validity.
- Human behaviour is difficult to predict and replicate, as people respond differently in different situations.
- Exact control over variables is harder in psychology compared to natural sciences.
- Some critics argue that experimentation may objectify humans, making psychology seem dehumanising.
Key Points: Importance of Rationality
- Rationality in psychology means using logical thinking, good judgment, and decision-making to improve the quality of life.
- It helps individuals achieve happiness without violating social norms, values, and ethics.
- Rational people balance self-interest and social interest and take responsibility for their choices.
- They show self-direction, tolerance, flexibility, and self-acceptance.
- Rationality involves accepting responsibility for one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviour.
- According to Albert Ellis, rational living leads to psychological health and happiness.
- The concept of “BE RATIONAL” emphasises balance, respect, tolerance, integration of personal and social well-being, and living life fully.
Important Questions [12]
- Match the words from groups ‘A’ and ‘B’ appropriately: Group ‘A’ Group ‘B’ a. Psychology 1. State of Awareness b. Personality 2. Natural science c. Cannon and Bard 3. Persona d. Hallucinations
- Answer the following question in only 'one' sentence: What is meant by the word "Scientia"?
- Explain the key features of science.
- Match the words from group ‘A’ and “B’ appropriately: Group 'A' (a) Replication (b) Cattell (c) Fear (d) Schizophrenia (e) Positive psychology
- Humanistic psychology school of thought is proposed by ______.
- The method of introspection was used by ______.
- Answer in One sentence: Who is considered as the 'Father of American Psychology'?
- Match the words from group 'A' and 'B' appropriately : Group A Group B
- Answer in one sentence: In which year was the first psychology laboratory established?
- Answer the following question in 25 to 30 words. Explain any two characteristics of rational individual in your own words.
- Explain the following concept in 25 to 30 words: Tolerance – A characteristic of a rational individual
- Explain some of the characteristics of a rational individual.
Concepts [10]
- Science of Psychology
- Key Features of Science
- History of Psychology as a Science
- Research Methods in Psychology> Experimental Method
- Research Methods in Psychology> Survey Method
- Research Methods in Psychology> Observation Method
- Research Methods in Psychology> Case Study Method
- Research Methods in Psychology> Correlation Studies
- Challenges in Establishing Psychology as a Science
- Importance of Rationality
