Introduction to Psychology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Introduction to Psychology - Essay Example While I recognized that there were individuals with different personality structures, to me it was not clear what exactly constituted crazy or sane, and what demonstrated normal or abnormal psychology. After researching these elements throughout the course I have come to a greater understanding and appreciation of psychology and its elements within the lives of others. Considering sanity and insanity, while I had previously believed that there was a clear and distinct divide between these two elements, I now believe that the distinguishing features are much more nebulous. It’s my understanding that oftentimes individuals can demonstrate abnormal or deviant views on the nature of existence or life, while at the same time demonstrate functional lifestyles in other aspects of their life. I also recognize that oftentimes these individuals, with proper care and counseling, can come to develop more sane or functional modes of existence. In terms of abnormal or different behavior, wh ile I recognize that there are individuals whose behavior is so entirely deviant that they are a threat to themselves and society that it must be curbed, there are also a number of positive elements of anormal psychology. In these regards, the course has demonstrated to me that while there is abnormal psychology that must be dealt with, in many contexts it’s necessary to consider the positive benefits of a society that values neurological diversity (Zimbardo 2010). This is perhaps the most intellectual development I made throughout my study in this course. Namely, that while psychology and doctors are quick to label individuals as bio-polar, autistic, or schizophrenic, in many instances these individuals simply demonstrate psychological perspectives that are deviant of mainstream norms. In labeling these people as such, I’ve come to believe that society is actually doing them a disservice, as in many instances that are simply unique individuals facing oppressive mechan isms from a social order not open to neurological diversity. 2. Identify and discuss the forces acting on you to limit or prevent your freedom of choice, both those rooted in your past (such as guilt, traumatic memories, obligations, bad contracts, unrewarding experiences, punishment, low self-esteem, or shyness), those rooted in the present (including social pressures to conform, comply, obey, and do what others reward you for; personal pressure to be recognized, approved of, accepted, and loved), and those based in the future (such as unrealistic expectations, aspirations, concern for liabilities and responsibilities, desire for security, or fear of death). While one of the predominant thematic elements of American society is the claim of freedom for all citizens, when one examines the issue on a personal level it’s evident that freedom is more complex that right granted by the government. When one considers freedom in terms of their personal lives, it’s clear there are a number of past, present, and future elements that factor into the ability of one to truly exercise elements of personal choice. When I consider freedom in terms of my own life, I recognize that I am constricted by these elements. Personal choice in my life surfaces perhaps most strikingly in terms of my artistic and social desires. In terms of my artistic desires, I have somewhat idealistic notions of myself as being a successful singer, but recognize that such a desire is highly unlikely to come to fruition. As