Psychology 101 Flash Cards
Print double-sided or fold pages to self-test. Cover the answer before revealing it.
Card 1: Question
What is psychology?
Answer
The scientific study of behavior and mental processes.
Card 2: Question
Nature vs. nurture
Answer
The debate over genetic inheritance (nature) versus environmental influence (nurture).
Card 3: Question
Independent variable
Answer
The variable manipulated by the researcher.
Card 4: Question
Dependent variable
Answer
The outcome measured in an experiment.
Card 5: Question
Correlation
Answer
A relationship between variables; does not imply causation.
Card 6: Question
Classical conditioning
Answer
Learning through association between stimuli.
Card 7: Question
Operant conditioning
Answer
Learning through consequences such as reinforcement and punishment.
Card 8: Question
Positive reinforcement
Answer
Adding a desirable stimulus to increase behavior.
Card 9: Question
Negative reinforcement
Answer
Removing an unpleasant stimulus to increase behavior.
Card 10: Question
Punishment
Answer
A consequence that decreases behavior.
Card 11: Question
Working memory
Answer
Temporary storage and manipulation of information.
Card 12: Question
Long-term memory
Answer
Relatively permanent storage of information.
Card 13: Question
Explicit memory
Answer
Conscious recollection of facts and events.
Card 14: Question
Implicit memory
Answer
Unconscious memory affecting behavior.
Card 15: Question
Neuron
Answer
The basic cell of the nervous system.
Card 16: Question
Action potential
Answer
Electrical impulse traveling along a neuron.
Card 17: Question
Neurotransmitter
Answer
Chemical messenger between neurons.
Card 18: Question
Amygdala
Answer
Brain region important for emotion, especially fear.
Card 19: Question
Hippocampus
Answer
Critical for forming new memories.
Card 20: Question
Prefrontal cortex
Answer
Executive functions such as planning and decision making.
Card 21: Question
Maslow's hierarchy
Answer
Theory proposing needs progress from physiological to self-actualization.
Card 22: Question
Piaget's stages
Answer
Sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, formal operational.
Card 23: Question
Erikson's theory
Answer
Psychosocial stages across the lifespan.
Card 24: Question
Big Five traits
Answer
Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Neuroticism.
Card 25: Question
Cognitive dissonance
Answer
Discomfort from conflicting beliefs or behaviors.
Card 26: Question
Confirmation bias
Answer
Seeking information that confirms existing beliefs.
Card 27: Question
Bystander effect
Answer
People are less likely to help when others are present.
Card 28: Question
Fundamental attribution error
Answer
Overestimating personal factors and underestimating situational factors.
Card 29: Question
Circadian rhythm
Answer
Approximately 24-hour biological cycle.
Card 30: Question
REM sleep
Answer
Sleep stage associated with vivid dreaming.