Summary Assignment I

Summary Assignment I

Introduction

The aim of this paper is to review the key topics and concepts of psychology. This paper will discuss what makes psychology a science, the historical overview of psychology and how it influences on modern psychology. This paper will also shed light on scientific research in psychology, independent and dependent variables, hypothesis formation and theory.

Definition of Psychology and What Makes it a Science

Psychology can be defined as a science which is in continuous modification, being redefined with new and reinforced long-standing ideas and concepts. It is focused on the human behavior and mind, and the relevant findings can help the human society.

There are five elements that make psychology a science, which include: empirical evidence (information or data gathered via objective measurement and observation), data (information collected through scientific research methods), scientific method (a controlled method to conduct and report research), research methods (systematic processes for collection and interpretation of data, and reporting of research findings), and systematic research (carrying out of research in line with preset processes in a logical sequence). Every psychological theory or even the hypothesis is based on substantial research findings and evidence; hence the subject area can be identified as a science. The role of a psychological researcher is to carry out controlled researches and experiments, and identify the scientific findings based on this comprehensive study (Carlson et al., 2009).

History of Psychology and its impact on modern psychology

Scientific Research in Psychology

As a science, the basis of psychology is on the research and research methods. Quantitative and qualitative are the two major research models used in psychology. Manipulated of variables along with observation of results are done in the quantitative model, which is possibly best identified as a classical research experiment. On the other hand, information is gathered in the qualitative model regarding environment of an individual to design the best approach for providing treatment to the individual. The quantitative model was the standard, for many years, in psychological research; however, it becomes difficult at times, while studying human behavior, to manipulate variables. Assume that you are a clinical psychologist trying to understand why Nancy, one of your clients, frequently hits her hand on her head. You suspect her mental health has something to do with her environment (home or work) or a reaction to not getting something she wants. If you use the quantitative approach you will manipulate the environment by ...