General Psychology (Psyc 1011) provides an in-depth exploration of psychological principles and theories, including the essence of psychology, drive-reduction theory, and homeostasis. This educational resource is designed for students pursuing psychology at the university level, featuring contributions from various academic institutions in Ethiopia. Key topics include the biological basis of behavior, cognitive processes, and the impact of social influences on individual psychology. The content is structured into multiple chapters, each addressing specific psychological concepts and theories, making it a valuable tool for both learning and revision.

Key Points

  • Explores foundational concepts in psychology, including drive-reduction and homeostasis.
  • Covers contributions from various Ethiopian universities, enhancing regional academic perspectives.
  • Includes detailed discussions on biological, cognitive, and social psychology.
  • Structured into chapters that facilitate easy navigation and understanding of key psychological theories.
Suud Fuad
Author:Koye Kassa, Belay Tefera, Aemero Asmamaw, Habtamu Disasa
Edition:Revised Edition
148 pages
Language:English
Type:Textbook
Psychology
Suud Fuad
Author:Koye Kassa, Belay Tefera, Aemero Asmamaw, Habtamu Disasa
Edition:Revised Edition
148 pages
Language:English
Type:Textbook
Psychology
410
/ 148
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Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
Ministry of Science and Higher Education
General Psychology (Psyc 1011)
Contributors
Koye Kassa, Bahir Dar University
Chapter One, Chapter Five, and Chapter Six
Belay Tefera, Addis Ababa University
Chapter Two
Aemero Asmamaw, University of Gondar
Chapter Three, Chapter Four, and Chapter Seven
Habtamu Disasa, Dilla University
Chapter Eight, Chapter Nine, Chapter Ten, and Chapter Eleven
Revised and Edited by
Belay Tefera, Addis Ababa University
September, 2019
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Module Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 5
Module Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 6
CHAPTER ONE ...................................................................................................................................... 7
ESSENCE OF PSYCHOLOGY ............................................................................................................... 7
1.1. Definition of Psychology and Related Concepts ............................................................................. 7
1.2. Goals of Psychology ........................................................................................................................ 8
1.3. Historical Background and Major Perspectives in Psychology ....................................................... 9
1.3.1. Early schools of psychology ................................................................................................. 10
1.3.2. Modern schools of psychology ............................................................................................. 13
1.4. Branches/Sub Fields of Psychology .............................................................................................. 15
1.5. Research Methods in Psychology .................................................................................................. 16
CHAPTER TWO .................................................................................................................................... 22
SENSATION AND PERCEPTION ....................................................................................................... 22
2.1.The meanings of sensation and perception ..................................................................................... 23
2.2.The sensory laws: Sensory thresholds and sensory adaption. ......................................................... 24
2.3.Perception ....................................................................................................................................... 26
2.3.1.Selectivity of perception: Attention ....................................................................................... 27
2.3.2.From perception .................................................................................................................... 30
2.3.3.Depth perception ................................................................................................................... 33
2.3.4.Perceptual Constancies .......................................................................................................... 36
2.3.5.Perceptual Illusion ................................................................................................................. 36
CHAPTER Three ................................................................................................................................... 39
LEARNING AND THEORIES OF LEARNING .................................................................................. 39
3.1. Definition, Characteristics and Principles of Learning .................................................................. 40
3.1.1. Definitions of learning .......................................................................................................... 40
3.1.2. Characteristics of learning .................................................................................................... 40
3.1.3. Principles of learning ............................................................................................................ 41
3.2. Factors Influencing Learning ......................................................................................................... 42
3.3. Theories of Learning and their Applications ................................................................................. 43
3.3.1. Behavioral Theory of Learning ............................................................................................ 43
3.3.2. Social Learning Theory (observational learning) theory ...................................................... 52
3.3.3. Cognitive Learning Theory .................................................................................................. 54
CHAPTER FOUR .................................................................................................................................. 56
MEMORY AND FORGETTING .......................................................................................................... 56
5.1 Memory .......................................................................................................................................... 57
5.1.1 Meaning and Processes of Memory ....................................................................................... 58
5.1.2 Stages/Structure of Memory .................................................................................................. 59
5.1.3 Factors Affecting Memory .................................................................................................... 63
5.2 Forgetting ....................................................................................................................................... 64
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5.2.1 Meaning and Concepts of Forgetting .................................................................................... 64
5.2.2. Theories of Forgetting .......................................................................................................... 65
5.3. Improving Memory ....................................................................................................................... 67
CHAPTER FIVE .................................................................................................................................... 69
MOTIVATION AND EMOTIONS ....................................................................................................... 69
5.1. Motivation ..................................................................................................................................... 69
5.1.1. Definition and types of motivation ....................................................................................... 69
5.1.2. Approaches to motivation (theories of motivation) .............................................................. 70
5.1.3. Conflict of motives and frustration ....................................................................................... 74
5.2. Emotions........................................................................................................................................ 75
5.2.1. Definition of emotion ........................................................................................................... 75
5.2.2. Theories of emotion .............................................................................................................. 76
CHAPTER SIX ...................................................................................................................................... 79
PERSONALITY..................................................................................................................................... 79
6.1. Meaning of Personality ................................................................................................................. 79
6.2. Theories of Personality .................................................................................................................. 80
6.2.1. The psychoanalytic theory of personality ............................................................................. 80
6.2.2. The trait theory of personality .............................................................................................. 83
6.2.3. Humanistic theory of personality ......................................................................................... 84
CHAPTER SEVEN ................................................................................................................................ 88
PSYCHOLOGICAL DISORDERS AND TREATMENT TECHNIQUES ........................................... 88
7.1 Nature of Psychological Disorders ................................................................................................. 89
7.2. Causes of Psychological Disorders (Based on Perspectives) ......................................................... 90
7.2.1 The Biological Perspective .................................................................................................... 90
7.2.2 Psychological Perspectives .................................................................................................... 90
7.3. Types of Psychological Disorders ................................................................................................. 91
7.4 Treatment Techniques .................................................................................................................... 96
CHAPTER EIGHT ................................................................................................................................. 99
INTRODUCTION TO LIFE SKILLS .................................................................................................... 99
8.1. Nature and Definition of Life skills ............................................................................................. 100
8.3. Components of Life Skills ........................................................................................................... 100
8.2. Goals of Life Skills ...................................................................................................................... 102
CHAPTER NINE ................................................................................................................................. 106
INTRA-PERSONAL AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS................................................................... 106
9.1. Self-Concept and Self-Awareness ............................................................................................... 107
9.2. Self-esteem and self-confidence .................................................................................................. 108
9.3. Self-Control ................................................................................................................................. 110
9.4. Anger Management ..................................................................................................................... 111
9.5. Emotional Intelligence and Managing Emotion .......................................................................... 112
9.6. Stress, Coping with Stress and Resilience ................................................................................... 113
9.7. Critical and Creative Thinking .................................................................................................... 116
9.8. Problem Solving and Decision Making ....................................................................................... 118
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Figures

The Pros and Cons of Punishment
Processes of Memory
Maslow‟s hierarchy of needs

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FAQs

what is general psychology psyc 1011 about

General Psychology (Psyc 1011) is an introductory course that covers the fundamental concepts, theories, and research findings in psychology.

  • It explores various topics such as sensation and perception, learning, memory, motivation, and emotion.
  • The course also examines psychological disorders and treatment techniques.
  • Students will learn about different psychological perspectives, including behavioral, cognitive, and humanistic approaches.

what are the main topics covered in general psychology psyc 1011

The main topics covered in General Psychology (Psyc 1011) include a wide range of psychological concepts.

  • Essence of psychology, including definitions and goals.
  • Sensation and perception, focusing on how we interpret sensory information.
  • Learning theories, including classical and operant conditioning.
  • Memory processes and factors affecting memory.
  • Motivation and emotions, exploring different theories.
  • Personality theories and psychological disorders.

how does general psychology psyc 1011 explain memory

General Psychology (Psyc 1011) explains memory as a complex process involving encoding, storage, and retrieval.

  • Memory is categorized into sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory.
  • Each type has distinct characteristics, such as duration and capacity.
  • Factors affecting memory include motivation, health, and emotional state.
  • The course also discusses theories of forgetting and strategies to improve memory retention.

what are the key theories in general psychology psyc 1011

General Psychology (Psyc 1011) introduces several key theories that shape the understanding of human behavior.

  • Behavioral theories focus on observable behaviors and the influence of the environment.
  • Cognitive theories emphasize mental processes like thinking and memory.
  • Psychoanalytic theories explore the unconscious mind and its impact on behavior.
  • Humanistic theories highlight personal growth and self-actualization.

how does general psychology psyc 1011 address psychological disorders

General Psychology (Psyc 1011) addresses psychological disorders by examining their nature, causes, and treatment techniques.

  • Students learn about various types of disorders, including mood, anxiety, and personality disorders.
  • The course discusses the biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to these disorders.
  • Treatment options, including psychotherapy and medication, are also explored.

what skills can i develop in general psychology psyc 1011

General Psychology (Psyc 1011) helps students develop various skills applicable to both academic and everyday life.

  • Critical thinking skills through analyzing psychological concepts and theories.
  • Research skills by evaluating studies and understanding research methods.
  • Interpersonal skills through discussions and group activities.
  • Self-awareness by reflecting on personal experiences and emotions.

what is the importance of general psychology psyc 1011

The importance of General Psychology (Psyc 1011) lies in its foundational role in understanding human behavior.

  • It provides insights into how psychological principles apply to everyday life.
  • Students gain a better understanding of themselves and others, enhancing interpersonal relationships.
  • The knowledge acquired can inform future academic pursuits in psychology and related fields.

how does general psychology psyc 1011 define motivation

General Psychology (Psyc 1011) defines motivation as the process that initiates, guides, and maintains goal-oriented behaviors.

  • It explores intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and their effects on behavior.
  • Theories of motivation, including drive-reduction and arousal theories, are discussed.
  • Understanding motivation is crucial for personal development and achieving goals.

what are the main components of general psychology psyc 1011

The main components of General Psychology (Psyc 1011) encompass various psychological domains.

  • Key components include sensation, perception, learning, memory, motivation, and emotion.
  • Personality theories and psychological disorders are also integral parts of the curriculum.
  • Research methods and ethical considerations in psychology are emphasized as well.

what can i expect from general psychology psyc 1011

Students can expect General Psychology (Psyc 1011) to provide a comprehensive overview of psychological concepts.

  • The course will involve lectures, discussions, and practical applications of psychological theories.
  • Students will engage in critical thinking and self-reflection throughout the course.
  • Assessments may include exams, papers, and group projects to evaluate understanding.