Unit I: Psychology’s History and ApproachesModule 2
Psychology’s Big Issues and Approaches
Psychology’s Biggest Question 2-1
Psychology’s Biggest Question
• Nature–Nurture Issue - biology vs.
experience
• Charles Darwin
• Natural selection – traits that contribute to
reproduction and survival will most likely be
passed on to the succeeding generations
• Today’s science sees traits and behaviors arising
from the interaction of nature and nurture
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Psychology’s Three Main Levels of Analysis
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Psychology’s Three Main Levels of Analysis
• Levels of Analysis
–Biological
–Psychological
–Social-cultural
• Biopsychosocial Approach
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Figure 2.1, p. 11
Figure 2.1, p. 11
Figure 2.1, p. 11
Figure 2.1, p. 11
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Table 2.1, p. 12
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Table 2.1, p. 12
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Table 2.1, p. 12
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Table 2.1, p. 12
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Table 2.1, p. 12
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Table 2.1, p. 12
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Table 2.1, p. 12
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Table 2.1, p. 12
Psychology’s Subfields 2-3
Psychology’s Subfields
• Basic Research
– Biological psychologists
– Developmental psychologists
– Cognitive psychologists
– Educational psychologists
– Personality psychologists
– Social psychologists
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Psychology’s Subfields
• Applied Research
– Industrial/organizational psychologists
– Human factors psychologists
– Counseling psychologists
– Clinical psychologists
– Psychiatrists
– Positive psychology
– Community psychologists
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