INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY (PSYCHOLOGY FOR NURSES)


         


INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY: UNRAVELING THE ESSENCE OF BEHAVIOR AND MIND

INTRODUCTION

Psychology, derived from the Greek words 'psychi' and 'logos,' stands as a cornerstone in the field of nursing. Defined as the systematic exploration of human and animal behavior, psychology encompasses the study of the mind, soul, conscious experience, and behavior.

DEFINITIONS OF PSYCHOLOGY

Walter Bowers Pillsbury (1911) characterizes psychology as the science of human and animal behavior, applied to human problems. William McDougall (1949) extends this definition, emphasizing psychology's role in understanding and controlling the behavior of the entire organism.

HISTORY AND ORIGIN OF THE SCIENCE OF PSYCHOLOGY

  1. Structuralism: Originating in Germany (1867-1927) under Wilhelm Wundt, structuralism aimed to identify the elemental units composing the mind, primarily employing introspection.

  2. Gestalt Psychology: Founded in Germany around 1912 by Max Wertheimer (1880-1943) and colleagues, this school argued that the mind results from the whole pattern of sensory activity and its internal relationships.

SCOPE OF PSYCHOLOGY

Examining its operations and applications, psychology delves into the behavior of living organisms, exploring various life activities and experiences. Beyond human behavior, it scrutinizes human experience, language, and diverse forms of communication.

BRANCHES OF PSYCHOLOGY

  1. Pure Psychology:

    • General Psychology
    • Abnormal Psychology
    • Social Psychology
    • Physiological Psychology
    • Parapsychology
    • Geopsychology
    • Developmental Psychology
    • Experimental Psychology
  2. Applied Psychology:

    • Educational Psychology
    • Clinical Psychology
    • Industrial Psychology
    • Legal Psychology
    • Military Psychology
    • Political Psychology

METHODS OF PSYCHOLOGY

  1. Introspection or Self-Observation Method
  2. Observational Method
  3. Experimental Method
  4. Clinical or Case Method
  5. Survey Method
  6. Genetic or Developmental Method

CONCLUSION

This introduction to psychology encompasses the meaning of behavior, delves into the history and origin of the science, provides definitions, explores its scope, branches, methods, and highlights its relevance to nursing. This content aims to be clear, easily understandable, and serves as the foundational knowledge of psychology for nurses. Best of luck in your exploration of this fascinating field!

For any queries, feel free to ask in the comment section.

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