Five major perspectives of psychology/ key issues

Psychodynamic Approach

The psychodynamic approach was promoted by Sigmund Freud, who believed that many of our impulses are driven by sex. Psychologists in this school of thought believe that unconscious drives and experiences from early childhood are at the root of your behaviors and that conflict arises when societal restrictions are placed on these urges.

Key issues in the field of Psychology: Issue #5

individual differences versus universal principles.

Behavioral Approach

Behavioral psychologists believe that external environmental stimuli influence your behavior and that you can be trained to act a certain way. Behaviorists like B.F. Skinner don't believe in free will. They believe that you learn through a system of reinforcements and punishment.

Neuroscience Approach

Biopsychologists look at how your nervous system, hormones and genetic makeup affect your behavior. Biological psychologists explore the connection between your mental states and your brain, nerves and hormones to explore how your thoughts, moods and actions are shaped.

Key issues in the field of Psychology: Issue #2

Consciousness versus unconscious causes of behavior

Key issues in the field of Psychology: Issue #4

Free will vs. determinism Free will: the idea that behavior is caused primarily by choices that are made freely by the individual Determinism: the idea that people's behavior is produced primarily by factors outside of their willful control

Humanistic Approach

Humanistic psychologists believe that you're essentially good and that you're motivated to realize your full potential. Psychologists from this camp focus on how you can feel good about yourself by fulfilling your needs and goals. The prominent humanistic psychologist Carl Rogers called his patients 'clients' and offered a supportive environment in which clients could gain insight into their own feelings.

Cognitive Approach

In contrast to behaviorists, cognitive psychologists believe that your behavior is determined by your expectations and emotions. Cognitive psychologist Jean Piaget would argue that you remember things based on what you already know. You also solve problems based on your memory of past experiences.

Key issues in the field of Psychology: Issue #1

Nature vs. nurture

Key issues in the field of Psychology: Issue #3

Observable behavior vs. internal mental processes