PSY 335: Cognitive Psychology

Discover the essential process of neural pruning in brain development, distinct from creating new connections, managing neural waste, or increasing brain weight. Uncover how this natural "clean-up" refines our neural network, making our brains more efficient in processing information. Explore the impact of neural pruning on cognitive growth and the interaction between genetics and environment in brain development.

Explore Edward Thorndike's foundational Law of Effect, illustrating how favorable consequences influence behavior repetition. Contrast this principle with other behavioral concepts like operant conditioning and shaping for a complete understanding.

Explore key terms related to unselfish concern for others' well-being. Understand the nuances between altruism, bystander intervention, and assuming responsibility. Conclude with the definitive answer to the concept embodying selfless concern.

Explore the life and work of Abraham Harold Maslow, a pivotal figure in American psychology. Delve into Maslow's groundbreaking Hierarchy of Needs, a model prioritizing human needs from basic physiological necessities to self-actualization. Understand the significance of satisfying lower-level needs before addressing higher ones.

Explore persuasion techniques such as Door-in-the-face, Foot-in-the-door, That's-not-all, and Not-so-free sample, commonly used in psychology, marketing, and sales, where only Foot-in-the-door initiates with a small request to enhance compliance with a larger one later based on the consistency principle.