Psychology is the study of human behavior and cognitive processes,... Show more
Algebra
Overige
Algebra 1Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
1 / 4
What is Psychology?
Ever wondered why people act the way they do? Psychology tries to answer this question, but psychologists don't all agree on how to study the human mind. The field has evolved dramatically since its beginnings.
Wilhelm Wundt established the first psychology lab in Germany in 1879, viewing psychology as the study of conscious experience through introspection (asking people to describe their thoughts). His student brought structuralism to America, though this approach was limited by its dependence on verbal communication.
William James, the first American psychologist, developed functionalism as an alternative. He believed the mind should be studied as a whole rather than broken into parts. Later, John Watson argued that psychology should only study observable behavior since the mind itself can't be seen – a view expanded by B.F. Skinner.
Did you know? Mary Calkins was the first woman to make a career in psychology, but due to gender discrimination in 1895, she never received a Ph.D. despite completing all requirements at Harvard!
Modern psychology includes several perspectives: cognitive (focusing on thinking processes), physiological (studying the brain and nervous system), sociocultural (examining social influences), psychodynamic (based on Freud's ideas about the unconscious), and behavioral (studying observable actions).
Modern Approaches and Training
When you look at someone's behavior, what do you think causes it? Different psychological perspectives offer unique answers. The physiological perspective looks at the brain and nervous system as the root of behavior. Meanwhile, the sociocultural perspective considers how your social environment and culture shape how you act.
The psychodynamic perspective, created by Sigmund Freud, focuses on the unconscious mind as the control center for our behaviors. Today, the behavioral perspective remains dominant, often combined with cognitive approaches to create a more complete picture of human psychology.
Many people confuse psychologists and psychiatrists. Both can diagnose and treat mental disorders, but psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication. Psychologists typically hold Ph.D. degrees and focus on therapy and assessment.
Important distinction: With just a Bachelor's degree in psychology, your career options are limited. Most practicing psychologists need at least a Master's degree, while a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) is required for full licensure and independent practice.
Psychology Professions
Psychology offers more career paths than you might think! Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental disorders, which is what most people imagine when thinking of psychologists. Counseling psychologists do similar work but might focus less on severe conditions.
If you're interested in helping children succeed, school psychology could be your path. These professionals work with kids who have learning, behavioral, or emotional challenges in educational settings. Unlike school psychologists, educational psychologists focus more on teaching techniques rather than individual students.
Curious about how people change throughout life? Developmental psychologists study physical, cognitive, and social changes across the lifespan. If you're fascinated by thinking processes, cognitive psychology examines reasoning, language, and decision-making.
Career spotlight: Industrial/organizational psychologists can earn some of the highest salaries in psychology by applying psychological principles to workplace issues like hiring, motivation, and leadership!
Other specialties include psychobiology (studying the brain), social psychology (examining how people interact), and experimental psychology (conducting research in areas like perception and learning).
Philosophical Issues in Psychology
Psychology grapples with big questions that philosophers have debated for centuries. The free-will versus determinism debate asks whether we truly choose our actions or if they're predetermined by factors beyond our control. When you make decisions, are you really in charge?
The mind-body problem explores the relationship between our psychological experiences and physical bodies. Are your thoughts and feelings separate from brain activity, or are they simply the result of neural processes? This question has roots in philosophy but remains relevant in psychology today.
Perhaps the most famous debate is nature versus nurture. Are your personality, intelligence, and behaviors shaped more by your genetics (nature) or your environment and upbringing (nurture)? Evidence supports both sides, making this one of psychology's most challenging questions.
Think about it: Next time you react strongly to something, ask yourself: Was that response determined by your genes, your past experiences, your conscious choice, or some combination? These philosophical questions affect how we understand ourselves!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Psychology
Most popular content in Psychology
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding Psychology: Key Concepts
Psychology is the study of human behavior and cognitive processes, but this definition means different things to different people. As we explore this fascinating field, you'll discover various perspectives that shape how psychologists approach their work, from studying observable behavior... Show more
What is Psychology?
Ever wondered why people act the way they do? Psychology tries to answer this question, but psychologists don't all agree on how to study the human mind. The field has evolved dramatically since its beginnings.
Wilhelm Wundt established the first psychology lab in Germany in 1879, viewing psychology as the study of conscious experience through introspection (asking people to describe their thoughts). His student brought structuralism to America, though this approach was limited by its dependence on verbal communication.
William James, the first American psychologist, developed functionalism as an alternative. He believed the mind should be studied as a whole rather than broken into parts. Later, John Watson argued that psychology should only study observable behavior since the mind itself can't be seen – a view expanded by B.F. Skinner.
Did you know? Mary Calkins was the first woman to make a career in psychology, but due to gender discrimination in 1895, she never received a Ph.D. despite completing all requirements at Harvard!
Modern psychology includes several perspectives: cognitive (focusing on thinking processes), physiological (studying the brain and nervous system), sociocultural (examining social influences), psychodynamic (based on Freud's ideas about the unconscious), and behavioral (studying observable actions).
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Modern Approaches and Training
When you look at someone's behavior, what do you think causes it? Different psychological perspectives offer unique answers. The physiological perspective looks at the brain and nervous system as the root of behavior. Meanwhile, the sociocultural perspective considers how your social environment and culture shape how you act.
The psychodynamic perspective, created by Sigmund Freud, focuses on the unconscious mind as the control center for our behaviors. Today, the behavioral perspective remains dominant, often combined with cognitive approaches to create a more complete picture of human psychology.
Many people confuse psychologists and psychiatrists. Both can diagnose and treat mental disorders, but psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication. Psychologists typically hold Ph.D. degrees and focus on therapy and assessment.
Important distinction: With just a Bachelor's degree in psychology, your career options are limited. Most practicing psychologists need at least a Master's degree, while a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) is required for full licensure and independent practice.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Psychology Professions
Psychology offers more career paths than you might think! Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental disorders, which is what most people imagine when thinking of psychologists. Counseling psychologists do similar work but might focus less on severe conditions.
If you're interested in helping children succeed, school psychology could be your path. These professionals work with kids who have learning, behavioral, or emotional challenges in educational settings. Unlike school psychologists, educational psychologists focus more on teaching techniques rather than individual students.
Curious about how people change throughout life? Developmental psychologists study physical, cognitive, and social changes across the lifespan. If you're fascinated by thinking processes, cognitive psychology examines reasoning, language, and decision-making.
Career spotlight: Industrial/organizational psychologists can earn some of the highest salaries in psychology by applying psychological principles to workplace issues like hiring, motivation, and leadership!
Other specialties include psychobiology (studying the brain), social psychology (examining how people interact), and experimental psychology (conducting research in areas like perception and learning).
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Philosophical Issues in Psychology
Psychology grapples with big questions that philosophers have debated for centuries. The free-will versus determinism debate asks whether we truly choose our actions or if they're predetermined by factors beyond our control. When you make decisions, are you really in charge?
The mind-body problem explores the relationship between our psychological experiences and physical bodies. Are your thoughts and feelings separate from brain activity, or are they simply the result of neural processes? This question has roots in philosophy but remains relevant in psychology today.
Perhaps the most famous debate is nature versus nurture. Are your personality, intelligence, and behaviors shaped more by your genetics (nature) or your environment and upbringing (nurture)? Evidence supports both sides, making this one of psychology's most challenging questions.
Think about it: Next time you react strongly to something, ask yourself: Was that response determined by your genes, your past experiences, your conscious choice, or some combination? These philosophical questions affect how we understand ourselves!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
10
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar Content
1.1 Introducing Psychology
Introduction to psychology
AP PsychologyIntroduction to Psychology
In class notes
AP PsychologyAP Psychology Notes - Ch. 1, Pt. 1
History of psychology, important psychologist, schools of thought
AP PsychologyFoundations of Psychology
Explore the origins of psychology, focusing on Wundt's pioneering work in introspection and the development of structuralism. Understand the shift to behaviorism led by Watson, emphasizing observable behavior over introspective methods. This summary covers key concepts such as the birth of psychology, structuralism, and the behavioral approach, providing a comprehensive overview for students studying psychological theories.
Psychology12
Introduction/Origins of Psychology
Aligns with Unit 1 of AP Psychology
AP PsychologyPsychology Introduction
PsychologyMost popular content: Psychology
Most popular content in Psychology
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user