PSY 111 Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Paul E. Meehl, Barnum Effect, Psychology Today
Document Summary
> the scientific investigation of behavior and mental processes. > behavior- observable actions of humans and animals. Mental processes- i. e. the mind; private inner experiences -- perceptions, thoughts (decision making, etc. Belief than outcome was foreseeable (after it has occurred) Ex: of course the lakers were going to win that game ! Findings seem obvious once we know them, were once controversial. Ex: making errors during learning is good. Ex: making errors during learning is bad. Once you know the answer, it"s impossible to remember what it felt like not to know. If the answer is right in front of you then it"s easy. Coined by psychologist paul meehl in deference to circus man p. t. Barnum who is claimed to have said, we have something for everybody . We think that these things were meant specifically for us. Press a button as soon as the tone sounds vs press a button after you perceive the tone.
