how does psych as a scientific discipline differ from casual observations we make in the world in everyday life? what are the similarities? Thanks
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Dr. Green is an admitting psychologist at a psychiatric hospital. Unfortunately, every client she interviews receives the diagnosis of schizophrenia. Dr. Green's diagnostic system ignores
Psychology as a scientific discipline differs from casual observations people make in everyday life in several ways. It is important to note that while psychology uses scientific methods to understand behavior and mental processes, casual observations are based on personal experiences and observations without rigorous scientific methods.
1. Systematic methods: In psychology, researchers use systematic and controlled methods to collect data and make observations. This includes designing experiments, creating surveys, conducting interviews, and analyzing data using statistical techniques. Casual observations, on the other hand, are not based on specific methods and may lack objectivity.
2. Objectivity: Psychologists strive for objectivity in their research by minimizing biases and personal interpretations. They rely on empirical evidence and aim to establish general principles that apply to a broader population rather than individual anecdotes. In casual observations, individuals tend to rely on their personal perspectives, biases, and subjective interpretations.
3. Replicability: Scientific psychology emphasizes the importance of replicating studies to determine the reliability of findings. Researchers must provide detailed methods and instructions so that others can replicate their experiments. Casual observations, while based on personal experiences, may not always be replicable or consistent across different settings or individuals.
4. Peer review and publication: In scientific psychology, research studies undergo a rigorous process of peer review before they can be published in reputable academic journals. This process ensures that the research meets high standards of quality and validity. Casual observations are not subject to the same level of scrutiny or peer review.
Despite these differences, there are also similarities between psychology as a scientific discipline and casual observations in everyday life:
1. Both aim to understand human behavior and mental processes: Psychology as a scientific discipline and casual observations both have the common goal of understanding human behavior, thoughts, emotions, and mental processes.
2. Both rely on observation: Both psychology and casual observations rely on observation as a key method to gather information about human behavior and mental processes, although the degree of rigor and objectivity differ.
3. Both inform our understanding of human behavior: Casual observations, such as personal experiences and insights gained through interactions with others, can contribute to our understanding of human behavior. Similarly, scientific psychology's findings enhance our knowledge and provide a more comprehensive understanding of human behavior.
In summary, psychology as a scientific discipline differs from casual observations by utilizing systematic methods, striving for objectivity, focusing on replicability, and undergoing peer review. However, both psychology and casual observations share a common goal of understanding human behavior and mental processes, relying on observation, and contributing to our understanding of human behavior.