FREE Bachelor of Arts in Psychology: Exploring Theories and Concepts Questions and Answers Flashcards

Which psychologist developed the hierarchy of needs theory?

Answer: Abraham Maslow

Abraham Maslow proposed the hierarchy of needs, ranking human needs from basic physiological requirements to self-actualization.

In classical conditioning, what is the unconditioned stimulus?

Answer: A stimulus that naturally triggers a response without prior learning

The unconditioned stimulus naturally and automatically produces a response without any learning required.

What does the term 'cognitive dissonance' refer to in psychology?

Answer: The mental discomfort from holding contradictory beliefs

Cognitive dissonance, introduced by Leon Festinger, describes the psychological tension experienced when beliefs and behaviors conflict.

Which perspective in psychology emphasizes observable behaviors over internal mental states?

Answer: Behaviorism

Behaviorism, championed by Watson and Skinner, focuses exclusively on measurable and observable behaviors rather than unobservable mental processes.

What is the primary function of the hippocampus in the brain?

Answer: Formation of new long-term memories

The hippocampus plays a critical role in converting short-term memories into long-term memories and spatial navigation.

Which theory suggests that emotions result from physiological arousal occurring before conscious emotional experience?

Answer: James-Lange theory

The James-Lange theory proposes that we experience emotions as a result of interpreting our bodily reactions to stimuli.