PSYC 290 Week 1 Major Perspectives of Psychology in Everyday Life

Name

Chamberlain University

PSYC-290 Lifespan Development

Prof. Name

Date

Major Perspectives of Psychology in Everyday Life

In the study of psychology, five major perspectives provide distinct insights into human behavior: the psychoanalytic/psychodynamic, behavioral, humanistic, cognitive, and neuroscientific/biopsychological perspectives (Chamberlain, 2019). Each perspective offers a unique explanation of why individuals act the way they do. This week, I explored these perspectives, understanding that they provide diverse viewpoints to analyze behaviors in everyday situations. For example, when considering recent decisions made by public figures such as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, these perspectives can help us understand their motivations. In 2020, the Duke and Duchess announced they would step back as senior members of the Royal Family and begin to split their time between the U.K. and North America (Bruner & McCluskey, 2020). They expressed their intent to become financially independent while continuing to support the monarchy.

The announcement sparked a debate, with many speculating about the Duchess’s role in the couple’s decision. Some viewed the decision through various psychological lenses, including the behavioral and cognitive perspectives.

Behavioral Perspective

From a behavioral perspective, actions are influenced by external stimuli. Behavioral psychologists argue that environmental factors condition individuals to behave in certain ways. In the case of the Sussexes, this perspective would suggest that their decision to step back from the Royal Family is a response to external pressures such as media scrutiny. Behavioral psychologists might assert that the couple’s decision was influenced by their need for privacy and freedom from constant media attention. The Sussexes’ desire to live a quieter life, regardless of public opinion, exemplifies behavior shaped by external environmental factors.

Cognitive Perspective

In contrast, the cognitive perspective focuses on how individuals’ thoughts, feelings, and expectations influence their behavior. Cognitive psychologists would explain the Sussexes’ decision by analyzing their personal experiences and expectations. For instance, Meghan Markle did not grow up in the Royal Family, and her upbringing might have shaped her desire to give her children a private life. Cognitive psychologists would argue that her experiences and expectations of independence and privacy led to the decision to move away from the royal spotlight. The couple’s choice to carve out a new role for themselves reflects their personal expectations of a better future for their family.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s decision to part from the Royal Family can be interpreted through different psychological perspectives. Whether viewed through the lens of behavioral psychology, which focuses on external stimuli, or cognitive psychology, which centers on individual thoughts and expectations, these perspectives offer a deeper understanding of human behavior. Meghan Markle’s upbringing, expectations for her family’s privacy, and the couple’s desire for independence reflect how personal experiences and external pressures can shape significant life decisions.

Table: Psychological Perspectives and the Sussexes’ Decision

Psychological Perspective	Key Features	Application to the Sussexes’ Decision
Behavioral Perspective	Behavior is influenced by external stimuli and conditioned responses.	The Sussexes’ decision to step back from royal duties may be a response to media scrutiny and the desire for privacy.
Cognitive Perspective	Behavior is shaped by thoughts, feelings, and expectations.	Meghan’s upbringing and expectations of privacy and independence influenced the couple’s decision to move away.
Psychoanalytic Perspective	Behavior is driven by unconscious desires and conflicts.	Could suggest the decision is rooted in deep emotional needs for autonomy or unresolved family dynamics.

References

Bruner, R., & McCluskey, M. (2020, January 13). Prince Harry, Meghan Markle Step Down: Everything We Know. Time. Retrieved from https://time.com/5761547/prince-harry-meghanmarkle-step-back-senior-royals/

Chamberlain University. (2019). Lesson 1. Retrieved from https://chamberlain.instructure.com/courses/55959/pages/week-1-lesson-introduction-research-and-biological-foundations?module_item_id=7259100

PSYC 290 Week 1 Major Perspectives of Psychology in Everyday Life

Daniels, N. (2020, January 10). What Do You Think About Prince Harry and Meghan ‘Stepping Back’? The New York Times. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/10/learning/what-do-you-think-about-prince-harry-and-meghan-stepping-back.html