Understanding the Learning Approach in Psychology
The Learning Approach in Psychology
The learning approach proposes that behavior is acquired through learning experiences. This perspective considers mental processes and genetics as relatively unimportant in determining our behavior. Instead, the focus is on observable behaviors, viewing the investigation of mental processes and unconscious forces as unscientific and untestable.
The early 20th century saw a rejection of unscientific methods and a shift towards a more scientific study of human behavior.
Read MoreEpistemological and Methodological Developments in Social Sciences
Epistemological and Methodological Developments
Evolutionary Period (19th Century)
Social sciences began to openly express concern for others. Explorers’ accounts, staff reports, and information from anthropological societies merged. This era introduced stages of social development (Marx, Spencer, Comte), the idea of progress, and the comparative method. Auguste Comte, the founder of sociology, defined it as the observation of social research through comparison, experimentation, and historical analysis.
Read MoreUnderstanding Equity, Expectancy Theories & Organizational Culture
Adam’s Equity Theory
Adam’s Equity Theory posits that perceived inequity plays a major role in motivational processes.
- People exchange inputs for outputs.
- People have a natural tendency to compare themselves to one another.
- The nature of the comparison is between input-output ratios, as follows:
Inputs of employee / Outputs of employee versus Inputs of referent other / Outputs of referent other
- If the comparison of the input-output ratio seems in balance, equilibrium, or equity, then behavior will
Sociological Data Collection: Methods and Methodologies
In sociology, data collection is a crucial step in research, as it allows sociologists to gather information about social phenomena. There are several tools and methods for collecting data, each suited to different types of research questions and methodologies. Here are some of the primary tools of data collection in detail:
Data Collection Tools
Surveys and Questionnaires
- Description: Surveys are structured tools that consist of a series of questions aimed at gathering information from a large group
Key Concepts in Personality Psychology: Theories and Development
Key Concepts in Personality Psychology
The Five-Factor Model
The Five-Factor Theory (Costa & McCrae, 1992) proposes personality traits can be categorized using two approaches:
- Categorical Approach: Classifying traits as either present or absent (yes/no).
- Dimensional Approach: Measuring traits on a continuous scale.
The five broad dimensions are:
- Openness to Experience
- Conscientiousness (嚴謹度)
- Extraversion
- Agreeableness
- Neuroticism (神經質)
Self-Efficacy
Self-efficacy refers to an individual’s
Read MoreKey Concepts: Agents of Socialization, Physiological Responses, and More
Agents of Socialization
- Family
- School
- Religion
- Public Institutions
- Media
Physiological Responses to Emotions
- Stronger Heartbeat (Heart Rate Acceleration)
- Faster Breathing
- Muscle Tension
Characteristics of Psychological Tests
- Reliability
- Validity
- Internal Consistency
- Stability
Mental Disorders
- Neurosis: Phobia, Hypochondria, Hysteria
- Psychosis: Schizophrenia, Paranoia, Autism
Factors Involved in Care
- Single Subject Factors: Physical condition, diet, rest
- Stimulating Factors:
- Intensity of the stimulus
- Mode of stimulus: