Psychological Perspectives

Perspectives in Psychology

• Biological: How the brain, body, and chemicals shape our thoughts, feelings, and actions. Example: How do messages travel through the body to create emotions?

• Evolutionary: How behaviors and mental processes have evolved over time for survival and adaptation. Example: How has evolution influenced our fears and attractions?

• Psychodynamic: How unconscious drives and conflicts influence our behavior and thoughts. Example: What hidden desires motivate our choices?

• Behavioral: How we learn through rewards, punishments, and observation. Example: How do we develop phobias?

• Cognitive: How we process information, think, reason, and solve problems. Example: How does our memory work?

• Humanistic: How personal growth, potential, and self-image affect our behavior. Example: How can we achieve our fullest potential?

• Social-Cultural: How social interactions and cultural norms shape our behavior and thinking. Example: How do different cultures view happiness?

Domains of Psychology (Psychologists)

• Biological: Studies the link between the mind and body.

• Developmental: Examines how behavior and mental processes change throughout life.

• Cognitive: Focuses on how we perceive, think, and problem-solve.

• Personality: Investigates our unique and enduring traits.

• Social: Explores how people interact and influence each other.

• Psychometric: Studies the measurement of psychological qualities.

• Industrial-Organizational: Apply psychology to the workplace, focusing on productivity and employee well-being.

• Educational: Specialize in how people learn and how to improve teaching methods.

• Counseling: Help individuals cope with challenges in various areas of life (school, career, relationships).

• Clinical: Assess, diagnose, and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders using psychotherapy.

• Psychiatrists: Medical doctors who can prescribe medication and also use psychotherapy to treat mental illness.

• Positive: Study the factors that contribute to happiness, well-being, and optimal human functioning.

Key Organizations and Figures

• American Psychological Association (APA): The leading professional organization for psychologists in the United States.