PSYCHOLOGY IN A NUTSHELL- 1

CRASH-COURSE SERIES

Old No. 38, New No. 6 McNichols Road, Chetpet Chennai - 600 031 First Published by Notion Press 2019 Copyright © CRASH-COURSE series 2019 All Rights Reserved. ISBN 978-1-64546-238-5 This book has been published with all efforts taken to make the material error-free after the consent of the author. However, the author and the publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. While every effort has been made to avoid any mistake or omission, this publication is being sold on the condition and understanding that neither the author nor the publishers or printers would be liable in any manner to any person by reason of any mistake or omission in this publication or for any action taken or omitted to be taken or advice rendered or accepted on the basis of this work. For any defect in printing or binding the publishers will be liable only to replace the defective copy by another copy of this work then available.

In memory of Dr. Gunamudian David Boaz (31 March 1908 – 8 July 1965) The firs firstt Indian ps psyychologis chologistt

Contents Preface

ix

Acknowledgements

xi

Part 1 1. Introduction

3

Part 2 2. Perception

13

Part 3 3. Sleep & Altered States Of Consciousness

29

Part 4 4. Learning & Memory

39

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CRASH-COURSE SERIES AN INITIATIVE BY:

Ez publishers

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Preface Psychology is a relatively young field in the scientific arena. As with any branch of science, psychology too had dealt with resistance from skeptics and has been subject to controversies and confusions. Shaping psychology into a purely scientific field was more about cutting-off than adding-in. Although the scientific community could cleanse the western community, mostly the U.S of the unscientific and irrational practices in the name of psychology, it is still in abundance in eastern regions. The only way to wipe out this epidemic is to pass on the true nature of psychology. The recent years have seen an increase in the number of Indians taking up courses related to psychology. However, there hasn’t been any significant contributions from the part of Indians. This raises the question of the academic standard of Indian institutes. A peripheral investigation led me to the conclusion that it is the teaching style or approach that mainly plays the role of villain. The current style adopted in Indian institutes might be suitable for other academic subjects, but not psychology. The lack of studies and research works in the Indian scenario further adds to the problem. The root of the problem can be thus traced back to a global scale malfunction. Being a student myself, I am fully aware that an instant change isn’t possible as far as the problem is concerned. But that doesn’t mean that we are to sit idle, doing nothing either. I believe we should start a revolution within our close circles, try and spread awareness among the commonwealth on the reality of what psychology is and what it isn’t. In the most simple terms, this book is our

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PREFACE

effort in achieving it. The curriculums provided by most of the Indian universities for psychology courses are of average difficulty. The syllabus put forward by Calicut University is one among them. This book has been created with two intentions. One, like any other guides available in the market, this should facilitate the students in scoring marks. The simplicity with which the book is written ensures that even a mediocre mind can understand the essence of the concepts discussed. Only the most relevant ideas and topics are discussed in the module. So, it might not suit an advanced learner. Still, when preparing for exams this guide would be your best companion. Second, as mentioned above, this is an attempt to educate the society on what actually is meant by psychology, consequently debunking the pseudo-elements. We have tried to cut short words as far as possible without affecting the completion of the concepts. We have also included certain brainstorming sessions and research questions to encourage involvement from the part of the reader. We have tried our best in order to bring you a flawless product, with zero thematic or grammatic errors. We truly hope that you benefit from this book both in your academic and personal life.

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Acknowledgements This guide, from its head to toe, is the result of a collective effort from a bunch of psychology students truly committed to the field of psychology. That being said, even though the title creators of this venture lack the qualifications of a professional clinician, we had a lot of help from faculties in the top of their respective fields. So mentioning all the names involved would be a challenging task. Therefore only a few names are mentioned here. If it ends up being compulsory, I will publish another 100- page book with just the names. First of all, Mr. Sahil P.K, whose contributions to this venture is as strong as mine. It was his determination and keen eye for details that led to the completion of this book with relative ease. Mr. Hanoon M.P, another psychology student whose engagement in the project has fueled me to go on. Mr. Muhsin T, renowned author and learning skill trainer, my mentor and inspiration behind each of my writings. Dr. Mustafa Kamal Pasha(counselling psychologist), whose philosophy of life and approach to human mind, both influenced me in a very visceral level. There are quite a lot of other colleagues, professors, academicians and friends who helped me on the way. However, listing out all their names doesn’t seem feasible, so I’ll mention none. However, I genuinely appreciate your help and admit the fact that this book would have been just a dream if it wasn’t for your self-less support.

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The first module deals with the basic introduction to Psychology. Every student starting in the field of psychology should have a thorough understanding of the fundamental elements of psychology. This chapter is also inevitable as there are quite a few terms you have to familiarise with in order to go forth to more advanced psychological theories and concepts. This is just an outline of what psychology is and a deeper understanding requires more pages of exploration. However, as a beginner, the information provided in the chapter is more than enough to kick-start your journey to ‘psycho-land’. • Psychology: Definition and explanation • Historical origins of psychology • Schools of psychology • Psychological perspectives • The grand issues

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION PSYCHOLOGY can be defined as‘ the science of behaviour and cognitive processes ’ • Behaviour: any observable action or reaction of a living organism (anything we say or do). • Cognitive processes: every aspect of our mental life (our thoughts, memories, mental images, reasoning, decision making, etc).

“The

word

psychology is

derived

from greek

”

roots meaning ‘the study of psyche or soul’.

Psychology gradually emerged over the course of the nineteenth century. However, the origin of the field of psychology can be traced back to the 17th century. During this period, many philosophers came up with questions about the human mind. Philosophers attempted to answer these questions through careful reasoning (rationalism). • Rene Descartes, a French philosopher (1596-1650), suggested that mind and body are distinct entities and that they interact through the pineal gland, found deep within the brain; this view is known as dualism. •3•