Key Psychological Theories or Perspectives Studied in Psychology for Class 12

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mind, focusing on understanding individual and group behavior. Class 12 psychology curriculum covers various key psychological theories and perspectives that contribute to our understanding of human behavior and mental processes. Here are some of the major theories and perspectives studied:

1. Psychoanalytic Theory:
- Developed by Sigmund Freud, this theory emphasizes the role of unconscious thoughts, desires, and childhood experiences in shaping behavior.
- It proposes that the mind is divided into three parts: the conscious, unconscious, and preconscious.
- Key concepts include the id, ego, superego, defense mechanisms, and psychosexual stages of development.

2. Behavioral Perspective:
- This perspective focuses on observable behavior and how it is influenced by the environment.
- It emphasizes the role of conditioning, reinforcement, and punishment in shaping behavior.
- Key theories include classical conditioning (Pavlov), operant conditioning (Skinner), and social learning theory (Bandura).

3. Cognitive Perspective:
- This perspective focuses on mental processes such as thinking, perception, memory, and problem-solving.
- It emphasizes how individuals interpret, process, and store information.
- Key theories include information processing theory, cognitive development theory (Piaget), and the concept of schemas.

4. Humanistic Perspective:
- This perspective emphasizes the inherent goodness and potential for growth in individuals.
- It focuses on self-actualization, personal growth, and the pursuit of one's own values and goals.
- Key theories include Maslow's hierarchy of needs and Carl Rogers' person-centered therapy.

5. Biological Perspective:
- This perspective emphasizes the biological basis of behavior and mental processes.
- It explores how genetics, brain structure, and neurotransmitters influence behavior.
- Key theories include the nature versus nurture debate, evolutionary psychology, and the study of biological correlates of behavior.

6. Socio-cultural Perspective:
- This perspective emphasizes the influence of social and cultural factors on behavior and mental processes.
- It explores how social norms, roles, and cultural values shape individuals' thoughts and actions.
- Key theories include social identity theory, cultural psychology, and cross-cultural studies.

These are some of the key psychological theories and perspectives studied in Class 12 psychology. Each perspective offers a unique lens through which psychologists analyze and understand human behavior and mental processes.