Value theory encompasses a range of approaches to understanding how, why, and to what degree people should value things, whether the thing is a person, idea, object, or anything else. This investigation began in ancient philosophy, where it is called axiology or ethics. Early philosophical investigations sought to understand good and evil, and the concept
Self-categorization theory seeks to explain the assumptions that need to be made about psychological group formation in order to understand social categorization studies on intergroup behavior conducted by Henri Tajfel. To do this, self-categorization theory builds on the concepts of social identity theory and the assumption of an “interpersonal-intergroup continuum” of social behavior. It draws
Correspondent inference theory is a psychological theory proposed by Edward E. Jones and Keith Davis that “systematically accounts for a perceiver’s inferences about what an actor was trying to achieve by a particular action.” Attributing intention The problem of accurately defining intentions is a difficult one. For every observed act, there are a multitude
Originating in sociology and criminology, labeling theory (also known as social reaction theory) was developed by sociologist Howard S. Becker. Labeling theory (synonymous to “identifying against”) holds that deviance is not inherent to an act, but instead focuses on the linguistic tendency of majorities to negatively label minorities or those seen as deviant from norms.
Realistic conflict theory dates back to the beginning of the 20th century as one of the earliest of social psychological theories regarding prejudice and discrimination. Realistic conflict theory proposes that intergroup conflicts arise between groups as they compete over the same limited resources. This is a possible cause of prejudice and discrimination development within a
Value-added theory (also known as social strain theory) was first proposed by Neil Smelser and is based on the assumption that certain conditions are needed for the development of a social movement. Smelser saw social movements as side-effects of rapid social change. Smelser argued that six things were necessary and sufficient for collective behavior to
Evolutionary Psychology is sometimes seen not simply as a subdiscipline of psychology but as a metatheoretical framework in which the entire field of psychology can be examined. Darwin’s illustrations of beak variation in the finches of the Galápagos Islands. Natural Selection Evolutionary psychologists consider Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection to be important
Piaget’s theory of cognitive development is a comprehensive theory about the nature and development of human intelligence first developed by Jean Piaget. It is primarily known as a developmental stage theory, but in fact, it deals with the nature of knowledge itself and how humans come gradually to acquire it, construct it, and use it.
Ecological Systems Theory, also called Development in Context or Human Ecology theory, specifies four types of nested environmental systems, with bi-directional influences within and between the systems. Overview Urie Bronfenbrenner is generally regarded as one of the world’s leading scholars in the field of developmental psychology. His Ecological Systems Theory holds that development reflects
An Inuit family is sitting on a log outside their tent. The parents, wearing warm clothing made of animal skins, are engaged in domestic tasks. Between them sits a toddler, also in skin clothes, staring at the camera. On the mother’s back is a baby in a papoose. For infants and toddlers, the “set-goal”
