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• Psychodynamic approach


  Historically important field of psychology which says behaviour is due to unconscious forces and conflict of which the conscious mind is unaware. Ego, Id, Super-ego are key constructs.
• Learning Approaches

  This is made up of behaviourism and Social Learning Theory
• Behaviourist approach


  Explains all behaviour as being learnt. Classical conditioning and operant conditioning are the key theories.
• Social learning theory

  Theory that learning can happen indirectly through observation of a role model and watching them be rewarded (vicarious reinforcement) or punished for their behaviour.
• Humanistic approach


  An approach to understanding behaviour that emphasises the importance of subjective experience and each person's capacity for self-determination, also concept of free will.
• Cognitive approach


  Approach in psychology which explains behaviour as due to cognitions- thoughts, beliefs, and ways of mentally processing the world. Disordered behaviour= due to faulty cognitions.
• Biological approach

  Approach in psychology which explains behaviour by looking at biological causes: genetics, hormones, gender, evolution, neurotransmitters, brain functioning are all studied.
• Introspection


  Studying and reporting thought processes, first used in controlled conditions by Wilhelm Wundt in his Leipzig lab.
• Cognitive Neuroscience

  The scientific study of biological structures and functioning that underpin cognitive processes. The newest approach in psychology.
• Pilot study

  Small study undertaken before embarking on big expensive main study. Allows changes to be made to the study following results from the pilot.
• Confederate


  Someone taking part in research who is not a real participant (eg the 'learner' in Milgram's study of obedience).