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Definition Stimulus Discrimination: The process by which an organism learns to respond differently to two stimuli that are similar in nature. In classical conditioning, this occurs when an organism learns to associate a specific stimulus with a particular outc...

Definition Stimulus generalization in classical conditioning refers to a phenomenon where an organism responds similarly to different stimuli that share characteristics with the original conditioned stimulus. This occurs when the conditioned response is elicit...

Definition Storage in human memory refers to the process by which information is retained and made accessible for future use. This process involves encoding experiences or knowledge into a form that can be retrieved when needed. It encompasses both short-term ...

Definition Strain theory, developed by sociologist Robert Merton in 1938, suggests that individuals experience tension or strain when there is a disconnect between societal goals and the acceptable means to achieve them. In other words, society often promotes ...

Definition Stress refers to the body's and mind's response to challenges or demands that disrupt an individual's normal functioning. It occurs when a person perceives a situation as requiring more physical, emotional, or mental resources than they believe they...

Definition The Stroop Effect is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when people are asked to identify the color of a word while ignoring the meaning of the word itself. It demonstrates how our brains can be influenced by conflicting information, making task...

Definition Structural functionalism is a sociological perspective that views society as a complex system composed of various interconnected parts, each serving specific functions that contribute to overall stability and equilibrium. These functions can be mani...

Definition The structural functionalist perspective is a sociological approach that examines how different parts of society work together to maintain stability and order. From this viewpoint, education serves several key functions: Socialization: Schools teac...

Definition Structuralism is an early school of thought that focuses on analyzing the structure of the human mind by breaking down mental processes into their most basic components. It emphasizes understanding how sensations, feelings, and images combine to for...

Definition A subculture is a distinct group within a larger culture that shares unique beliefs, values, behaviors, or practices different from the mainstream culture. Subcultures often form around shared interests, identities, or experiences and can influence ...

Definition Subjugation in sociology refers to a situation where one group or individual is dominated, controlled, or exploited by another group or power structure. It often involves the use of force, coercion, or systemic inequality to maintain power imbalance...

Definition The substantia nigra is a region within the midbrain, specifically located at the base of the brain. It appears darker than surrounding tissues under a microscope due to high levels of melanin pigment in its neurons. This area is crucial for produci...

Definition Suggestibility refers to the tendency of individuals to alter their memories or beliefs based on cues, hints, or suggestions from others. It highlights how external information can influence what people remember, sometimes leading to inaccuracies or...

Definition The superego is a concept related to personality from Freudian (psychodynamic) psychology that represents the moral component of the psyche. It develops as a person internalizes societal values, rules, and ideals, often influenced by parents or care...

Definition A superiority complex is a psychological state where an individual excessively believes they are better, more intelligent, or more capable than others. This belief often stems from underlying feelings of insecurity or inferiority, which the person c...

Definition Supernaturalism refers to the belief in forces, entities, or phenomena that are not explained by natural laws or scientific reasoning. In sociology, this concept often examines how such beliefs shape social structures, behaviors, and collective acti...

Definition The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) is a small region in the brain located just above the optic chiasm, which is where the two optic nerves cross. It plays a crucial role in regulating the circadian rhythms that control sleep-wake cycles, metabolism, ...

Definition A method of data collection using questionnaires or interviews to gather information from a group. Example A researcher wishes to gather data related to the relationship between life satisfaction and stress. The researcher distributes surveys to t...

Definition A symbol is an object, action, or idea that represents something else, often carrying specific meanings, values, or beliefs within a particular culture. Symbols serve as tools of communication and help people understand shared ideas or experiences w...

Definition Symbolic interactionism is a sociological perspective that focuses on how individuals interpret and assign meaning to symbols, objects, gestures, or actions during social interactions. According to this theory, human behavior is shaped by these shar...