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Introduction
(^) Psychology is defined as the study of behavior and mind. (^) Strives to understand brain functions, mental processes and behavior among people. (^) Cover a wide range of topics spanning from infants’ development to social group behavior. (^) Embraces all facets of human experience starting from brain functions and differences in behavior across different social groups. (^) Endeavors to give deep understandings into the thoughts, actions, feelings and goals of individuals. (^) Goals of psychology include describing, explaining, predicting and controlling/changing behavior.
Name
Class
Instructor
Date
Advanced Research
Methods
(^) Case studies (^) Surveys (^) Natural observation (^) Self-report inventories (^) Psychologists begin by observing behavior and then describing an associated problem. (^) Highest level of objectivity is maintained. (^) By describing WHAT is happening, the researcher can then learn WHY the specific behavior is happening and devise ways on HOW to change it.
Methods used in Describing
(^) Explaining why individuals or animals behave the way they do. (^) Researcher determines factors that contribute to the described behavior and its development. (^) Researcher may conduct rigorous tests, observations and/or scientific experiments. (^) Use both mini-theories and grand theories. (^) Mini-theories: Encompass small facets of human behavior. (^) Grand theories includes intricate details and encompass everything relating to human psychology. (^) Examples: Classical conditioning and
Explaining Behavior
Besides devising ways of treating mental disorders,
the final goal of psychology also aims at changing,
influencing and/or controlling behavior.
Devise and implement lasting and constructive
changes in the society.
Researchers also develop theories that are useful in
controlling and/or changing human behavior.
Examples:
Diffusion of innovation theory,
Health belief model,
Social cognitive theory,
Theory of planned behavior and
Social norms theory.
Controlling/Changing
Behavior
Based on empirical evidence as in the case of direct observation. (^) Disregard the use of hypothesis that run against observable facts. This is in contrast with methods that apply pure reason or which rely on subjective or emotional factors. Scientific explanations rely on replicable experiments. (^) Another person duplicating the experiment will get similar results. (^) Scientists required to publish enough of their methods to allow other people with appropriate training to replicate findings (Coccia, 2018). (^) This diverges from other methods that depend on experiences which are unique to a specific individual or group. (^) Based on provisional results meaning that they are subject to debate and criticism. (^) Emergence of new data contradicting a given explanation should be incorporated in modifying the explanation. Characteristics of Scientific Explanations
(^) Scientific method: The use of systematic observation, experimentation, measurement, formulation, testing and alteration of hypothesis. (^) It involves careful and nonbiased observation accompanied with rigorous skepticism. (^) A researcher using the Method Of Authority find answers to a research question by relying on an authority in the subject area. (^) Can be through consulting experts in a field or reading their work. (^) Can give subjective information or one that is based on personal opinion. (^) The rational method involves using logical reasoning. (^) Researcher proceeds from a set of known facts/assumptions and apply logic to reach a conclusion. Scientific Method, Method of Authority and Rational Method
Theory offers a framework for understanding
human behavior, development and thought
process.
Allows for a better understanding of our behavior
and behavior of others.
Acts as a lens through which psychologists can
examine how learning occurs and factors that
influence behavior development.
The dynamic nature of theories means they can be
modified and adapted to encompass new
information.
Are important in unraveling hidden thoughts which
can in turn help eradicate or better deal with
psychological distress or disorders.
The role of Theory in Investigating Behavior
