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Structuralism
Structuralism focused on breaking down mental processes into the most basic components. Wilhelm Wundt is credited with establishing modern psychology as a separate formal field of study. These people that studied this field are called structuralists and they used techniques like introspection, a method of self observation, to analyze the human mind. -
Functionalism
Functionalism is a theory about the nature of mental states. William James taught the first class of psychology at Harvard University. William James focused on the functions or purposes of the conscious mind and the goals or function or purposes of behaviors. -
Gestalt Psychology
Gestalt psychologists studied how sensations are assembled into perceptual experiences. A main psychologist involved with the gestalt theory is Max Wertheimer. These psychologists believed that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. -
Psychoanalytic Psychology
While most psychologist studied to understand the conscious mind, Sigmund Freud studied the unconscious mind. Sigmund Freud used dream analysis , a therapeutic technique. He used dream analysis as a way to understand the unconscious mind. -
Behavioral Psychology
Scientists who began investigating behavior became known as behaviorists. They believed that psychology should only concern itself with observable facts of behavior. The theory of behavioral psychology were mostly based on the works of John B. Watson. -
Cognitive Psychology
Cognitive Psychology is the study of mental processes such as attention, language use, memory, perception, problem solving, creativity, and thinking. Cognitivists like Jean Piaget believed behavior is influenced by a variety of mental processes, including perceptions, memories, and expectations. -
Humanistic Psychology
Humanistic psychology developed as a response to psychoanalysis and behaviorism. Humanistic psychologists describe human nature as evolving and self-directed. Major humanists include Abraham Maslow, Carl Rogers, and Rollo May. -
Biological Psychology
Biological Psychology emphasizes the impact of biology on our behavior. Psychobiologists study how the brain, the nervous system, and hormones and genetics influence our behavior. Psychobiologists used PET scans and CAT scans. -
Sociocultural Psychology
Sociocultural Psychology studies the influence of cultural and ethnic similarities and differences on behavior and social functioning.
