reality discussion

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B01

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Psychology

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Dec 6, 2023

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Psychology Discussion 2 Personality and Social Psychology Pillar In the realm of personality and social psychology, one of the key concepts is behavioural confirmation, where expectations about a person influence how one behaves toward that person, ultimately shaping the person’s behaviour to fulfill those expectations (Schacter, D.L. et al.,2023, p. 495). Reflecting on a personal example, I recall a time when I participated in a group project during my first year of college. As the team formed, I noticed that my initial perception of a team member was influenced by preconceived notions about her based-on rumours I had heard from other classmates. The concept of a fundamental attribution error, which suggests a tendency to attribute others’ behaviour to internal factors rather than external circumstances, became evident in my thoughts about my peer (Schacter, D.L. et al.,2023, p. 500). I had heard that she struggled with time management and often missed deadlines. Subconsciously influenced by this information, I approached our interactions with skepticism and a preconceived belief that she might not contribute significantly to the project. This initial mindset significantly affected my behaviour within the group. I unintentionally excluded my classmate from specific discussions and hesitated to delegate important tasks to her. Consequently, my peer felt excluded and undervalued, disengaged from the project, confirming my initial expectations. This example highlights how my preconceived beliefs about my classmate shaped my behaviour, which, in turn, influenced her behaviour, creating a diffusion of responsibility (Schacter, D.L. et al.,2023, p. 478.).
Understanding the impact of behavioural confirmation and fundamental attribution errors can be crucial in social interactions. Had I approached my classmate with a more open mind and without the influence of rumours, the dynamics within the group project might have been different. This example illustrates the power of cognitive processes in shaping social interactions and outcomes. Mental and Physical Health Pillar Moving to the mental and physical health pillar, the concept of stress and its impact on health is a central theme. Lazarus and Folkman’s Transactional Model of Stress and Coping emphasizes that the subjective interpretation of an event significantly influences the stress response (Schacter, D.L. et al.,2023, p. 524). Reflecting on a personal experience, I encountered a stressful period when my job had me moved to a different unit that I was unfamiliar with. The appraisal process outlined in the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping was evident as I evaluated the situation. Initially, I perceived the job transition as a threat, focusing on potential adverse outcomes such as inexperience and unfamiliarity in this area of my workplace. This perception triggered the physiological stress response, including increased heart rate and heightened anxiety (Schacter, D.L. et al.,2023, p. 525). The stress response might have differed if I had adopted a different cognitive appraisal, considering the job transition as a challenge rather than a threat. The concept of primary and secondary appraisal, where individuals assess the significance of an event and evaluate their ability to cope, aligns with this scenario (Schacter, D.L. et al.,2023, p. 525). By reframing the
situation and viewing it as an opportunity for personal and professional growth, I could have potentially experienced a more positive stress response. This example highlights the intricate relationship between cognitive processes and stress, emphasizing the role of subjective perceptions in determining the impact on mental and physical well-being. It underscores the importance of cognitive appraisal in shaping one’s stress experience, which, in turn, influences overall health outcomes. Holistic perspective Both examples show the role of cognitive processes in shaping experiences and outcomes. The lenses through which we view others and interpret events can significantly influence our behaviours and reactions, intimately shaping the reality we experience. Integrating these examples provides a holistic perspective on the interplay between personality, social interactions, and mental health. The behavioural conformation observed in the group project highlights the impact of preconceived beliefs on interpersonal dynamics. As I perceived my classmate through a lens tainted by rumours, my actions unintentionally contributed to the confirmation of those rumours. This aligns with the principles of social psychology, where our expectations can become a reality through our actions and perceptions (Schacter, D.L. et al.,2023, p. 469). Transitioning to mental and physical health, the stress experienced during my job transition illustrates how cognitive appraisals influence the physiological stress response. The transactional Model of Stress and Coping reflects how our subjective interpretation of events shapes how we respond to stressors (Schacter, D.L. et al.,2023, p.525). The shift from a threat
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appraisal to a challenge appraisal could have led to a more adaptive stress response, aligning with the principles of stress and health outlined in the course modules. These examples underscore the integrative nature of psychological processes across different pillars. The mind actively constructs our reality, shaping our perceptions, behaviours, and, ultimately, our outcomes. Recognizing the interconnectedness of personality, social interactions, and mental health provides a comprehensive understanding of how cognitive processes influence the human experience. Conclusion In conclusion, the mind’s active role in constructing reality is a central theme in psychology, encompassing personality, social psychology, and mental and physical health. The examples illustrate how cognitive processes, such as behavioural confirmation and cognitive appraisals, significantly impact our experiences and outcomes. These concepts, rooted in the course modules, offer valuable insights into the complexities of human behaviour and the dynamic interplay between cognition and reality construction. Embracing a holistic perspective that integrates these pillars enhances our understanding of how the mind shapes our lived experiences. Reference Schacter, D.L., Gilbert, D.T., Nock, M.K., Johnsrude, I., & Wegner, D.M. (2023). Psychology (6th Canadian ed.). Toronto: Worth Publishers