Crash Course Psychology #1: Intro to Psychology
What's psychoanalysis?
According to Wikipedia, psychoanalysis is "a system of psychological theory and therapy which aims to treat mental disorders by investigating the interaction of conscious and unconscious elements in the mind and bringing repressed fears and conflicts into the conscious mind by techniques such as dream interpretation and free association."
What's functionalism?
American philosopher and psychologist William James (1842-1910) developed a school of thought he named "functionalism", which centered around finding the function of human behavior. This school of thought was inspired by Darwin's theory of natural selection.
Who was Sigmund Freud?
Austrian neurologist and founder of psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud (1856-1939) developed theories that framed our understanding of dreams, childhood, personality, and sexuality.
How did Breuer's treatment for Anna O. influence Freud?
From then on, Freud allowed his patients to speak freely about whatever came to mind, a method known as "free association". This verbal mode of treatment set the foundation for Freud's theory of psychoanalysis.
In what book did Freud introduce his theory of psychoanalysis?
He introduced his theory of psychoanalysis with the publication of his book "The Interpretation of Dreams" in 1899.
Who was Josef Breuer?
Josef Breuer (1842 -1925) was an Austrian physicians who developed the talking cure with which he treated a patient by the pseudonym Anna O. He allowed her to explain her symptoms and trauma until her symptoms were reduced.
Why wasn't structuralism effective?
Relying on patients' subjective experiences didn't produce any objective results.
Who founded the first psychology laboratory?
The first psychology laboratory was established in 1879 by German physician Wilhelm Wundt (1832-1920) at the University of Leipzig.
What's psychology?
The traditional Latin meaning of the word "psychology" is "the study of the soul". Nowadays it's commonly defined as "the science of behavior and mental processes".
What's structuralism?
Wundt and his English student Edward Bradford Titchener (1867-1927) developed a school of thought Titchener named "structuralism". It involved asking patients how they felt when perceiving different things.
