History/Evolution of Psychology

The Evolution of PsychologyFrom Speculation to Science: How Psychology Developed

Psychology Today:Vigorous & Diversified

What is your definition of

PSYCHOLOGY?

Why do I like the people, food, or music that I like?Or, why do I NOT like certain things or have an irrational fearof certain things, like spiders, heights, or public speaking?Why do I feel a sudden boost in mood when my favorite songcomes on the radio?Why did I cheat on my test…

my diet, my boyfriend or my girlfriend?Why do I get so tired or maybe bored in a certain class?

(of course not in psychology though)

Have you ever wondered…

Or… Have you ever wondered?Are first-born children more driven to achieve?

Only children? The middle child?

Does handwriting offer any clues to my personality?

Do my dreams really mean anything?

Does hypnosis really work?

Why my family or my relationships look so dysfunctional at times & what to do about it?

What is Psychology?

What is your definition?How would you define it?

Write it out.

We will share it & improve the definition.

What is Psychology?

Psyche – meaning the soul

Logos – referring to the study of a subject

“The study of the mind.”

Has a foundation in philosophy & physiology

Psychology is defined as the scientific study of the behavior of individuals & their mental processes.

What is the engine of Psychology?

Observable Behavior:We need 3 volunteers.

You have 3 minutes.

Volunteer A: You will watch Ms. Gillette. Record everything that you observe. Be as objective as possible, avoid any judgements or inferences about physical appearance or behavior.

Volunteer B: You will watch Volunteer A. Record everything that you observe. Be as objective as possible, avoid any judgements or inferences about physical appearance or behavior.

Volunteer C: You will keep the time. 3 minutes. Go!

Experiment!

Stability vs. ChangeRationality vs. IrrationalityNature vs. Nurture

Big Issues in Psychology

Stability vs. ChangeDo we change over time in distinct and universal stages or do we basically remain the same drooling, slobbering, simple beings of our beginnings?

Do these things change? Personality traits, sense of humor, tastes, etc…

Can a shy child become the teenage class clown?Do we become adults or are we always just big kids?Do our personalities change in different situations?

Rationality vs. IrrationalityAre we wise or not? Why do we do things that are bad for us when we know they are bad?

We screw up, we make mistakes, and we lose sight of good judgmentBut, we often don’t change behavior, we don’t seem rational

Nature vs. NurtureAm I the way I am because I was born that way or because of my surroundings?

Biology (genes) vs. Experience

Can I ever be like these people, or does nature give me limitations?

What is Psychology?Link to the full video on Annenberg's Website