Glossary / Lexicon

Paradigm is defined as a body of knowledge that selects and highlights certain issues for study. It includes assumptions about how a particular phenomenon ought to be studied and the kinds of experimental methods and measures that are appropriate to use.

It is a model or framework for observation and understanding, which shapes both what people see and how they understand it. Paradigm, moreover, is a term which is used to describe a set of rules and regulations that establish boundaries and explain how to be successful solving problems within the given boundaries.

Description

In psychology, a paradigm refers to the overarching framework or model that shapes the way researchers and practitioners understand and study human behavior and mental processes. It serves as a set of beliefs, values, and assumptions that guide the field's theories and methods. Paradigms provide a structure for organizing knowledge and defining what is considered important in the study of psychology. They influence the types of questions researchers ask, the methods they use to collect data, and the interpretations of their findings. Paradigms can also shape how psychologists diagnose and treat mental health disorders.

Application Areas

• Clinical psychology
• Counseling psychology
• Developmental psychology
• Social psychology
• Cognitive psychology

Treatment and Risks

• Effective treatment planning
• Risk of bias due to paradigm constraints
• Potential for limited perspectives and approaches

Examples

• The behaviorist paradigm focuses on observable behavior as the basis for psychological study.
• The psychodynamic paradigm emphasizes the role of unconscious processes in shaping behavior.
• The cognitive paradigm explores how thoughts and beliefs influence emotions and behavior.

Similar Concepts and Synonyms

• Theoretical framework
• Perspective
• Model

Articles with 'Paradigm' in the title

• Acute stress paradigm: Acute stress paradigm: Acute Stress paradigm refers to a laboratory procedure whereby an individual goes through moderately stressful procedures, such as counting backwards rapidly by 7s), so that stress-related c hanges in emotions and . . .
• Effort justification paradigm: Effort justification paradigm refers to a research methodology used to test Dissonance theory, which arouses dissonance by getting people to invest time or energy to achieve a goal that may not be worthwhile
• Free choice paradigm: Free choice paradigm refers to a research methodology used to test Dissonance theory which arouses dissonance by getting people to choose between two (2) or more alternatives
• Hypocrisy paradigm: Hypocrisy paradigm is defined as a research methodology used to test Dissonance theory, which arouses dissonance by having people publicly promote a socially desirable behavior and then be made aware that they have not always exhibited the . . .
• Induced compliance paradigm: Induced compliance paradigm refers to a research methodology used to test dissonance theory, which arouses dissonance by getting people to engage in counter-attitudinal behavior
• Minimal group paradigm: Minimal group paradigm is defined as a procedure for testing Social identity theory, in which group membership is arbitrary and participants never have any contact with one another
• Paradigmatic stage: Paradigmatic stage is a stage which according to Kuhn, is the stage in the development of a science during which scientific activity is guided by a Paradigm
• Preference-for-novelty paradigms: Preference-for-novelty paradigms are tasks in which an infant's preference, often measured in looking time, for a novel as opposed to a familiar stimulus is used as an indication of memory for the familiar stimulus

Summary

A paradigm in psychology is a fundamental framework that shapes the understanding and study of human behavior and mental processes. It guides researchers in asking questions, collecting data, and interpreting findings. Paradigms influence how psychologists diagnose and treat mental health disorders, as well as how they organize knowledge within the field. Overall, paradigms play a crucial role in defining the scope and direction of psychological research and practice.

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