Universal Principles in Psychology
Universal Principles in Psychology
Individual differences vs universal principles in psychology
is an ongoing issue similar to the nature vs nurture debate. Do psychologists
focus on what makes us different or what makes us the same?
Universal principles are behaviors and traits that are true
for all humans or all members of a culture or society.
Neuroscientists may focus on what makes us the same, such as
specific hormones that prime us for sexual behavior. On the other hand,
humanistic psychologists may take a special interest in individual differences,
believing that all behavior is a reflection of a person's unique qualities.
Individual Differences in Psychology: Strengths and
Weaknesses
So what are the strengths and weaknesses of considering
individual differences in psychology rather than universal principles? Let's
take a look:
Strengths
Weaknesses
Looking at individual differences requires psychologists to
consider the whole person when treating mental illnesses, rather than the
general characteristics of the disorder. (This is often called a holistic
approach)
Understanding individual differences in psychology give us a
clearer picture of concepts like intelligence, personality, gender, and memory.
Can help educators learn how to support students who may
have fallen through the cracks and need special attention to achieve education
goals.
Understanding individual differences can help us pinpoint
certain developmental issues or psychological disorders.
Focusing too much on differences can create divisions
between groups.
Overemphasis on differences when discussing mental health
can make some people feel ostracized or left out.
Can help educators learn how to support students who may
have fallen through the cracks and need special attention to achieve education
goals.
Risks too much focus on internal factors, giving less credit
to external factors.
Individual Differences Psychology - Key takeaways
Individual differences are comprised of our unique
characteristics and traits, which distinguish us from others.
Three important ways of measuring individual differences are
through observations, controlled lab experiments, and surveys or
questionnaires.
Highlighting individual differences in educational
psychology can apply to intelligence, learning style, and motivation.
Universal principles are behaviors and traits that are true
for all humans or all members of a culture or society.
Individual differences help us pinpoint developmental issues
and give us a clearer picture of concepts like intelligence, personality,
gender, and memory. On the other hand, overemphasis on differences when
discussing mental health can make some people feel ostracized or left out.
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