Exploring Theories and Concepts Flashcards

Which concept in Erikson's psychosocial theory describes the crisis faced during adolescence?

Answer: Identity vs. Role Confusion

Erikson identified Identity vs. Role Confusion as the central crisis of adolescence, during which individuals explore who they are.

In classical conditioning, what term describes a previously neutral stimulus that elicits a conditioned response after repeated pairing?

Answer: Conditioned stimulus

A conditioned stimulus is originally neutral but acquires the ability to elicit a response after being repeatedly paired with an unconditioned stimulus.

Vygotsky's concept of the 'zone of proximal development' (ZPD) refers to:

Answer: The gap between what a learner can do alone and with guidance

The ZPD is the difference between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with skilled assistance.

Which defense mechanism involves attributing one's own unacceptable feelings to another person?

Answer: Projection

Projection involves unconsciously attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to someone else.

The humanistic concept of 'unconditional positive regard,' introduced by Carl Rogers, means:

Answer: Providing complete acceptance regardless of behavior

Unconditional positive regard means accepting and valuing a person fully without conditions or judgment.

According to attribution theory, the 'fundamental attribution error' occurs when people:

Answer: Overestimate dispositional factors and underestimate situational factors in others' behavior

The fundamental attribution error is the tendency to overweight personality traits and underweight situational factors when explaining others' behavior.

Which theoretical perspective emphasizes the role of unconscious processes and early childhood experiences in shaping personality?

Answer: Psychoanalytic theory

Psychoanalytic theory, founded by Freud, holds that unconscious drives and early experiences are central to personality development.