PSY 1806: Psychology 1A

xplore the core concept of Frequency Theory and its role in auditory perception. Learn how the pitch we perceive ties to the vibration rates of the basilar membrane in our cochlea. Unravel the intricacies of how sound waves affect our hearing process.

Discover how texture gradients shape our depth perception both indoors and outdoors. Explore how various environmental patterns provide depth cues. Understand the blend of Gestalt principles and depth cues in shaping our visual experience.

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.

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.

Egocentrism, a cognitive bias, causes individuals to prioritize their perspectives, influencing decisions and interactions. Using relatable scenarios with college students and vacation planning, we examine how egocentrism operates and ways to challenge this bias through empathy and perspective-taking.

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.