PSY 121: Introductory Psychology

Developmental psychology explores human development from infancy to old age, addressing core issues of Nature versus Nurture, Continuity versus Discontinuity, and Stability versus Change, offering vital insights for education, parenting, and interventions.

Discover the concept of physiological arousal and how various psychological theories interpret it into emotions. Learn about the role of context in defining our emotions through the Two-Factor Theory. Grasp the significance of cognitive labeling in different scenarios.

This video explores the laws of visual perception: Closure, Proximity, Similarity, and Simplicity, and matches them with their respective meanings. Closure involves perceiving fragmented elements as a complete figure, Proximity relates to grouping close elements together, Similarity pertains to grouping similar-looking elements, and Simplicity emphasizes perceiving patterns in the simplest manner possible.

Discover the factors influencing the risk of major depression and bipolar disorder. Unpack the roles of genetic predisposition, family history, and life events in mental health. Learn why a biological family connection stands out as the most significant risk factor.

Examine the concepts of groupthink and group polarization in group decision-making. Learn how the drive for harmony can overshadow critical thought, and how group discussions can intensify biases. Discover ways to maintain diverse thought and prevent extreme views.

Discover how perception shapes experiences through the concepts of absolute and difference thresholds. Understand Marisol's ski trip sensations in terms of these psychological phenomena. Learn how individual factors can create unique perceptual moments.