Emergence of Psychology

• 1900s Behaviourists

  • John B. Watson
  • Skinner - focus on observable and measurable behaviour
  • questions the lack of objectivity in findings which makes it difficult to establish general laws
  • used controlled experiments
• 1950’s Cognitive Approach

  • metaphor of a computer for the human mind
  • multi-store model —> tested predictions of memory and attention
  • maintained legitimate discipline of Psychology as a science
• 1980’s Biological Approach

  • advances in technological allows investigation into the physiological processes
  • fMRI, EEG, CT, PET scans
  • genetic testing —> understand the relationship between genes and behaviour
• Strength of Emergence of Psych.

  • modern psych. is scientific
  • psychology has the same aims as natural sciences- to describe, understand, predict and control behaviour
  • cog. and bio. approach rely on scientific methods- lab studies are controlled and unbiased
• Weakness of Emergence of Psych.

  • not all approaches use objective methods
  • humanistic approach relies on individual and subjective experience
  • ppt may respond to demand characteristics
  • scientific approach to human behaviour may not be possible although desirable