In psychology, reinforcement refers to a process where behavior is strengthened or increased by the presentation or removal of a stimulus. Types of reinforcement include positive and negative reinforcement. Reinforcement is a key concept in behaviorism, a school of psychology that emphasizes the role of the environment in shaping behavior. According to behaviorists, behavior is…
Extrinsic and intrinsic motivation differ in that extrinsic motivation comes from external rewards, while intrinsic motivation is driven by internal satisfaction. Motivation is crucial in how we behave, perform, and feel. Extrinsic motivation draws upon external factors such as rewards or punishment to drive action, while intrinsic motivation comes from within and involves the internal…
Correlational research is a type of scientific investigation in which a researcher looks at the relationships between variables but does not vary, manipulate, or control them. It can be a useful research method for evaluating the direction and strength of the relationship between two or more different variables. When examining how variables are related to…
Naturalistic observation is a psychological research method that involves observing and recording behavior in the natural environment. Unlike experiments, researchers do not manipulate variables. This research method is frequently used in psychology to help researchers investigate human behavior. This article explores how naturalistic observation is used in psychology. It offers examples and the potential advantages…
Freud’s pleasure principle suggests we’re driven by the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. Discover how this theory lays the foundation for understanding human behavior and our inner desires.
Scaffolding refers to the temporary support that adults or other competent peers offer when a person is learning a new skill or trying to accomplish a task. The concept was first introduced by the Russian psychologist Lev Vygotsky, who was best known for his theories that emphasized the importance of social interaction in the learning…
Psychological research methods are the techniques used by scientists and researchers to study human behavior and mental processes. These methods are used to gather empirical evidence. The goal of psychological research methods is to obtain objective and verifiable data collected through scientific experimentation and observation. The research methods that are used in psychology are crucial…
Chunking is a memory technique that involves grouping information into smaller, meaningful clusters that are easier to remember. Breaking down complex information into smaller, more manageable units can help improve memory retention. By organizing information into categories, such as numbers or concepts, we can make it more memorable and increase our ability to recall it…
Negative reinforcement can be used to modify behavior by removing something that a person finds unpleasant or aversive.
Here’s why understanding social influences can provide greater insights into how people think, act, and feel in response to others.
ABCD personality types describe four types of personality based on traits, attitudes, and response to stress.
A Likert scale is often used in psychology research to evaluate information about attitudes, opinions, and beliefs.
Positive reinforcement involves introducing a desired stimulus after a behavior to encourage that behavior. Learn more about how positive reinforcement works.
Personality traits are fairly consistent and predictable patterns of behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. Cardinal traits are dominant personality characteristics that strongly determine a person’s behavior. Such traits are so strong and persistent that the individual becomes associated with that quality. While other personality traits are present earlier in life, cardinal traits become more apparent as…
The fundamental attribution error is a type of cognitive bias that leads people to overemphasize personality and underemphasize situational factors.
If you need to solve a problem, there are a number of different problem-solving strategies that can help you come up with an accurate decision. Sometimes the best choice is to use a step-by-step approach that leads to the right solution, but other problems may require a trial-and-error approach. Why Use Problem-Solving Strategies While you…
Laissez-faire leadership advantages and disadvantages can determine whether this leadership style is effective or not. The advantages of laissez-faire leadership include empowering team members and fostering creativity. The disadvantages can include lower productivity and the potential for confusion. Have you ever had a boss who took a hands-off approach? Who let team members take the…
Autocratic leadership involves the leader taking complete control, not accepting input, and expecting others to follow without question.
Democratic leadership relies on group participation. Learn why this style can be so effective.
Emotions are an essential part of human life, but that doesn’t mean that feeling them is always easy. Many different types of emotions influence our decisions, relationships, and overall satisfaction with life. The emotions we feel can feel intense or sometimes even overwhelming. But being able to identify these feelings, talk about them, and manage…
