The Bystander Effect denotes a social psychological scenario where a victim in an emergency situation is not offered help by surrounding individuals, even though they are aware that the victim needs assistance. Continue reading
Forensic psychology is the branch of psychology that interacts with the law. Forensic psychologists are required to have a thorough understanding of the country’s judicial system and criminal law, in order to be seen as credible witnesses and to foster appropriate and effective communication with lawyers, judges and other courtroom personnel. They are often called upon to convey psychological findings in a manner which facilitates easy comprehension in a courtroom setting. Continue reading
Developmental psychology is the scientific study of the age-related changes that occur over the course of the human lifespan. Although early developmental theorists were mainly concerned with children, the focus of this field has now expanded to include changes over the entire human lifespan from conception to death. Developmental psychologists study various domains of development, including physical, emotional, cognitive, moral, personality and social change. Although in theory, these domains can be viewed as separate, they all influence and are influenced by each other. Developmental psychologists therefore investigate ways in which these areas of development interact, resulting in more complex patterns of change. For example, physical development during the adolescent years can result in emotional changes (e.g. reduced or heightened self-confidence) which could in turn, affect one’s pattern of social interaction. Continue reading
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a childhood developmental disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or impulsivity and hyperactivity. These behaviours are more severe and occur more frequently than expected for a child’s age and developmental level. In order to be diagnosed ADHD, the pattern of inattention and impulsive/hyperactive behavior must be present in at least two settings (e.g., home and school). Additionally, some of the symptoms must have been evident before age 7. Although many individuals manifest symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity, some may display a predominance of one pattern over the other. Continue reading
Conduct disorder is a disorder of childhood and adolescence involving a persistent pattern of behavior in which social norms and rules, as well as the rights of others, are repeatedly violated. Children with this disorder may be described as cruel, impulsive, aggressive and out to control. The symptoms of the disorder are typically grouped into four main categories according to the diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-IV. Continue reading
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder which develops following exposure to a terrifying event involving death, injury, or a threat to the physical integrity of onself or of another person. The symptoms characteristic of PTSD can develop out of personal experience with traumatic events or from witnessing or hearing about such events being experienced by others. Distressing events leading to this disorder include wars, natural disasters, imprisonment, violent personal assaults, serious automobile accidents, and being diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. Continue reading
