Origins of Psychology

• Origins of Approaches AO3: Strength:

  • The scientific method focuses on being objective and conducting research in strictly controlled environments.
  • As the research is conducted in a lab setting, we can ensure a stricter degree of control over variables.
  • This means that studies are replicable and have higher internal validity.
  • However, this tells us very little about how people will behave in their natural environments.
• Origins of Approaches AO3: Strength:

  • Allows the causes of behaviour to be identified, and theories to be developed.
  • For example, the development of psychological therapies for depression.
  • However, there are certain areas of human behaviour and the mind that cannot be observed and therefore cannot be measured using the scientific method.
  • For example, in decision-making, another person is unable to observe this process or be in control of it in any way.
• Wilhelm Wundt (1920)

  • Known as the father of Psychology.
  • Wanted to study the mind using scientific methods.
  • Used introspection.
  • Marked transition from philosophy to science.
• Introspection:

  • A technique used to gain insight into mental processes by self-reporting thoughts in response to stimuli.
  • Standardised procedures in controlled environments.
  • By modern standards, this is still subjective.