Contemporary psychology is a diverse field shaped by many historical perspectives. This lesson introduces organizations that represent psychologists and explores how biology and evolution help explain behavior.
The American Psychological Association (APA) is the world’s largest organization of psychologists. Its mission is to advance and disseminate psychological knowledge for the betterment of people. Its 54 divisions represent specialties ranging from the psychology of religion and spirituality to exercise and sport psychology, behavioral neuroscience, and comparative psychology. APA members and affiliates include students and doctoral-level psychologists working in settings such as schools, hospitals, criminal justice, the armed forces, and industry.
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What is the APA?
The American Psychological Association is the world’s largest organization of psychologists. It advances and disseminates psychological knowledge and represents many specialties and professional settings.
What distinguishes the APS?
Founded in 1988, the Association for Psychological Science seeks to advance psychology’s scientific orientation. It publishes research journals and engages in education and advocacy.
What does biopsychology study?
Biopsychology studies how biological processes influence behavior, often focusing on links between the nervous system and behavior.
How does evolutionary psychology explain behavior?
It considers how inherited behavioral tendencies may have been shaped by natural selection in past physical and social environments.
What is a key limitation of evolutionary explanations?
A behavioral pattern alone does not prove a genetic cause or adaptation. Researchers may also lack reliable evidence about the conditions in which the behavior evolved.
Quiz questions
Which organization is the world’s largest organization of psychologists and has 54 specialty divisions?Answer: The American Psychological Association (APA)
Which question is most characteristic of evolutionary psychology?Answer: How might inherited tendencies have been shaped across generations?
What did Milgram’s obedience research demonstrate about authority?Answer: Authority can strongly influence people to follow instructions that appear harmful.
Which framework does health psychology use to examine how health is influenced?Answer: The biopsychosocial model
Which task may a forensic psychologist perform in a legal setting?Answer: Assessing whether a defendant is competent to stand trial
Based on Psychology 2e by Rose M. Spielman, William J. Jenkins, Marilyn D. Lovett (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.