PY101 Exam 1

Which of the following is the best definition of psychology?

• the study of the brain and its inner function

• the analysis of the mind and its unconscious thoughts

• the study of mental activity and behavior based on brain processes

• the study of thoughts, social interactions, and emotions

Both behavior and mental activity rely primarily on

• processing in the brain.

• subjective experience.

• the month in which someone was born.

• one's personality.

Critical thinking is best defined as thinking that

• systematically evaluates information.

• criticizes others' opinions.

• is open-minded and creative.

• uses inferences but does not solve problems.

Which of the following statements best describes how psychology is useful?

• Much of psychology is just common sense.

• Much of psychology is about applying common sense to everyday life.

• Psychological principles are highly applicable to everyday life.

• Psychological principles are too scientific to apply to everyday life.

In the nature/nurture debate, the term nature refers to the question of how ________ factors affect the mind, brain, and behavior.

• biological

• environmental

• either biological or environmental

• conscious or unconscious

The theories of Sigmund Freud and his followers

• state that behavior can be altered by the application of reinforcement and punishment.

• emphasize the functions or adaptive purposes of the mind.

• emphasize the concept that the whole is different from the sum of its parts.

• state that much of human behavior is determined by the unconscious.

The psychological approach that emphasizes the role of the environment in influencing behavior is

• humanism.

• cognitive.

• behaviorism.

• Gestalt theory.

Gestalt theory is based on the idea that

• the whole is different from the sum of its parts.

• the environment affects behavior.

• social situations influence behavior.

• science should be used to understand therapy.

Which of the following questions do behaviorists attempt to answer?

• Is behavior influenced by mental processes?

• Which is more important, the parts or the unified whole?

• Can unconscious conflicts be fully resolved?

• How does the environment influence behavior?

The subfield of cognitive psychology focuses on

• groups, relationships, and workplace interactions.

• personality, gender, and self-concept.

• norms, beliefs, and values.

• thinking, memory, and attention.