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Quizzes > Science

Intro to Psychology Quiz: Check Your Basics in 15 Questions

Quick, free psychology practice test. Instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Duc Hoang TrongUpdated Aug 26, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
Questions: 15
Study OutcomesAdditional Reading
3D voxel art visually representing the Intro Psych course content

This Intro to Psychology quiz helps you check key concepts and see what to review next. Answer 15 quick questions across behavior, perception, learning, memory, thinking, personality, and research methods, then keep practicing with the psych 100 practice quiz and the AP Psychology chapters 1-3 quiz.

Which definition best describes psychology?
A study of human anatomy and physiological functions.
An art of mind reading and predicting the future.
A collection of superstitions and beliefs.
The scientific study of behavior and mental processes.
This answer correctly identifies psychology as a scientific discipline focused on understanding behavior and mental processes. It differentiates the field from non-scientific or purely anatomical approaches.
Which research method involves controlled experiments to establish cause-and-effect relationships?
Case study.
Naturalistic observation.
Survey research.
Experimental method.
The experimental method is the only research design that involves manipulation of variables under controlled conditions. This method is essential for determining causal relationships between variables.
Which term best describes the process of interpreting sensory information?
Cognition.
Sensation.
Perception.
Reflection.
Perception involves organizing and interpreting the raw data provided by our senses. It transforms basic sensory input into meaningful experiences.
What is the main concept behind classical conditioning?
Reinforcing a behavior through rewards.
Associating a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus to produce a conditioned response.
Developing behavior through observation.
Learning that occurs through punishment.
Classical conditioning involves pairing a neutral stimulus with a stimulus that naturally elicits a response until the neutral stimulus alone provokes that response. This process was famously demonstrated by Pavlov's experiments with dogs.
Which term refers to the study of individual differences, including variations in intelligence and personality?
Cognitive psychology.
Social psychology.
Behavioral psychology.
Differential psychology.
Differential psychology focuses on examining the differences between individuals, such as variations in intelligence, aptitude, and personality. It provides insights into why and how individuals differ in their behavior and mental processes.
How does the scientific method enhance research in psychology?
By focusing solely on anecdotal evidence.
By relying on unsupported theories.
By limiting experiments to qualitative data only.
By emphasizing systematic observation and controlled experimentation.
The scientific method uses systematic observation and controlled experimentation to reduce bias and ensure reliable results. This rigorous approach is essential for producing replicable and valid findings in psychology.
What does the term 'encoding' refer to in memory processes?
The conversion of information into a form that can be stored mentally.
The permanent loss of information.
The organization of sensory input without storage.
The retrieval of information from long-term memory.
Encoding is the first step in the memory process, where incoming information is transformed into a format that can be stored in the brain. This transformation is critical for the subsequent storage and retrieval of memories.
Which Gestalt principle explains the tendency to perceive incomplete shapes as complete?
Closure.
Similarity.
Proximity.
Continuity.
The principle of closure in Gestalt psychology refers to the tendency to perceive a complete, whole object even when parts of it are missing. This demonstrates how our minds actively fill in gaps to create meaningful images.
What distinguishes a fixed-interval schedule from a variable-interval schedule in operant conditioning?
Both schedules rely on visual cues for reinforcement.
Fixed-interval schedules are based on variable rewards, and variable-interval schedules offer consistent rewards.
Fixed-interval schedules provide reinforcement after a consistent period, while variable-interval schedules do so unpredictably.
Both schedules provide reinforcement at fixed times.
In a fixed-interval schedule, reinforcement is provided after a set and predictable period. Conversely, a variable-interval schedule offers reinforcement at unpredictable intervals, which typically results in a steadier rate of response.
Which psychological perspective emphasizes unconscious processes and early childhood experiences?
Psychodynamic perspective.
Behavioral perspective.
Cognitive perspective.
Biological perspective.
The psychodynamic perspective focuses on the influence of unconscious processes and early childhood experiences on behavior. This view, rooted in Freud's theories, emphasizes internal conflicts and repressed emotions.
Which research design is most effective for establishing cause-and-effect relationships?
Survey research.
Correlational study.
Observational study.
Experimental design.
Experimental designs allow for controlled manipulation of variables, making it possible to draw conclusions about cause and effect. This methodology is fundamental for testing hypotheses in psychology.
Which cognitive process involves holding and manipulating information simultaneously?
Sensory memory.
Encoding.
Working memory.
Long-term memory.
Working memory is responsible for the temporary storage and manipulation of information during cognitive tasks. This process is vital for reasoning, comprehension, and decision-making.
Which cognitive bias involves generalizing about a group based on limited evidence?
Stereotyping.
Self-serving bias.
Confirmation bias.
Availability heuristic.
Stereotyping is the process of making oversimplified assumptions about a group based on limited observations. This bias can lead to erroneous conclusions and misinterpretations about individuals within that group.
What is the primary goal of applied research in psychology?
To solve practical problems and improve everyday life.
To focus exclusively on laboratory experiments.
To develop theories without real-world applications.
To analyze historical behavior trends.
Applied research in psychology is aimed at addressing practical issues and solving real-world problems using scientific methods. This type of research directly bridges theory with practice to improve human well-being.
What does the nature-nurture debate primarily explore in psychology?
The comparison between human and animal behavior solely based on genetics.
The influence of environmental factors versus biological factors on behavior.
The impact of nutrition on brain function.
The role of societal norms in cultural development.
The nature-nurture debate investigates how genetic predispositions (nature) and environmental influences (nurture) interact to shape behavior and mental processes. This discussion is central to understanding the complexities of human development.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand and explain key psychological concepts such as perception, learning, and memory.
  2. Analyze research methods and experimental designs used in studying human behavior.
  3. Apply theoretical principles to interpret everyday psychological phenomena and challenges.
  4. Evaluate individual differences in cognitive abilities and personality traits using empirical evidence.

Intro Psych Additional Reading

Here are some top-notch academic resources to supercharge your psychology studies:

  1. Dive into comprehensive lecture videos, notes, and exams from MIT's renowned course, covering everything from perception to personality.
  2. This free textbook offers a thorough exploration of psychological concepts, complete with real-world applications and study aids.
  3. Join Professor Paul Bloom in this engaging online course that delves into human behavior, cognition, and emotion through a scientific lens.
  4. This study guide complements your learning with summaries, quizzes, and activities tailored to key psychological topics.
  5. A customized version of OpenStax Psychology 2e, aligned with course competencies and enriched with additional resources.
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