Problem
Myths in Psychology Infographic Assignment
Related Learning Objectives:
• Explain behavior and mental processes using basic psychology terminology, concepts and theories in psychology.
• Demonstrate an understanding of how psychological principles affect personal and professional activities.
• Identify potential for flaws in behavioral explanations based on simplistic or personal theories by using psychological concepts.
• Articulate criteria for identifying objective sources of psychology information, including common fallacies in thinking and interpreting information that impair accurate conclusions and predictions.
Task:
There are many myths in that have great popularity but they are not supported by science. This is true about many ideas with psychology origins. You have likely even encountered more than a few. For this assignment, select one myth from the list and infographic following the these points:
1) Include a brief explanation of the myth.
2) Describe at least one example of where you have seen the myth portrayed in popular culture (i.e. book, movie, commercial)
3) Provide three unique pieces of evidence that proves the myth is false, using a different academic source to support each piece of evidence. Evidence must be explained, and you must explain why your evidence shows that the myth is false.
4) Include references for you evidence as a list at the end of the infographic. This may be formatted in any way you prefer.
5) Remember that this assignment is to an infographic. In other words, this problem is a paper. Keep the writing to a minimum and display you information visually and graphically whenever possible.
Myth options:
• Subliminal messages can persuade people to purchase products.
• Opposites attract: We are most romantically attracted to people who differ from us.
• Playing Mozart's music to infants boosts their intelligence.
• Old age is typically associated with increased dissatisfaction and happiness.
• Human memory accurately records the events we experience.
• The polygraph test is an accurate means of detecting dishonesty.
• Electroconvulsive therapy is physically dangerous and brutal treatment.
• Students learn best when teaching styles are matched to their learning styles.
• Our handwriting reveals our personality traits.
• Low self-esteem is a major cause of psychological problems.