Psychology Terms Quiz to Understand Key Concepts

Abuse refers to the misuse of someone or something in a harmful or negative way. It involves using power, objects, or relationships to cause damage, exert control, or exploit others. This interpretation aligns with psychological and behavioral definitions, where abuse describes harmful actions that violate boundaries and well-being. The other options describe moderate use, positive purpose, or kindness, which do not reflect the destructive intent central to abuse.

ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. This diagnosis is supported by clinical criteria such as persistent difficulty focusing, restlessness, and challenges in self-regulation. The other options refer to unrelated medical or fictional combinations of conditions. ADHD is widely recognized in psychological, academic, and medical contexts, making this the only option reflecting an established and scientifically supported disorder.

Affirmation refers to emotional support or encouragement expressed through positive statements or validating messages. In psychology, affirmations strengthen self-worth, reinforce desired beliefs, and support mental well-being. The other options describe formal confirmation, administrative processes, or declarations, none of which capture the emotional and supportive nature of affirmations. This definition aligns with therapeutic practices where affirmations help individuals reframe negative thinking and build confidence in their abilities and personal identity.

Anxiety is defined as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease often triggered by uncertainty or perceived threats. It involves physical and cognitive symptoms like restlessness, tension, and excessive concern about outcomes. The other options describe emotional states such as excitement, peace, or warmth, which do not reflect the discomfort central to anxiety. This definition aligns with clinical psychology, where anxiety is recognized as a common emotional and physiological response.

Bias refers to an unfair tendency to prefer one thing, group, or outcome over another, often subconsciously. It affects decision-making, judgment, and perception, leading to skewed evaluations that lack objectivity. Psychologically, bias arises from heuristics, stereotypes, and past experiences. The other options describe ideal states of impartiality, objectivity, or fairness, which are the opposite of bias. Therefore, prejudice or favoritism best captures the meaning and impact of bias.

Boundaries are defined as limits that separate one space, responsibility, or personal domain from another. In psychology, boundaries help individuals maintain emotional safety, personal identity, and autonomy. They prevent intrusion, protect relationships, and promote healthy interactions. The other options describe unrelated items like dance moves or desserts, which do not align with this concept. Boundaries create structure in both physical and interpersonal contexts, ensuring clarity and mutual respect in interactions.

Communication involves sharing or exchanging information, thoughts, or feelings between individuals or groups. It includes verbal, nonverbal, written, and digital forms. Effective communication requires clarity, active listening, and understanding. The other options describe unrelated activities like cooking or transportation, which lack the essential feature of message exchange. In psychology, communication is central to relationships, conflict resolution, and emotional expression, making this definition the only appropriate one.

Conflict refers to a serious disagreement or argument where parties have opposing views, goals, or needs. It may be prolonged when resolution is difficult. Conflict can occur internally, interpersonally, or between groups. The other options describe harmony or understanding, which represent the absence of conflict. This definition aligns with psychological and organizational perspectives, where conflict is viewed as tension requiring negotiation, communication, or behavioral adjustment to resolve.

Confidentiality refers to keeping private information secret and restricting access to only authorized individuals. In mental health and professional practice, confidentiality protects client trust, personal safety, and ethical standards. It contrasts with sharing sensitive data or leaving documents publicly accessible. Being open about personal information also conflicts with confidentiality. This definition aligns with ethical guidelines across psychology, counseling, and healthcare settings.

Consultation refers to formally seeking advice, guidance, or input from someone knowledgeable about a topic. In therapeutic, clinical, or professional contexts, consultation ensures expertise, supervised decision-making, and quality outcomes. The other options describe unrelated concepts like flowers or entertainment. Consultation emphasizes collaboration and informed opinions, aligning with psychological and organizational practices where experts review cases, strategies, or decisions.

Denial involves refusing to accept or acknowledge reality, facts, or evidence, often as a defense mechanism. People use denial to avoid emotional pain, anxiety, or threatening information. Declaring something untrue is a behavioral expression of denial, making this option correct. The other options describe acceptance or acknowledgment, which contradict the essence of denial. This definition aligns with psychological theories regarding coping mechanisms and emotional protection.

Developmental refers to the processes of growth, change, and progression in individuals or systems over time. In psychology, it encompasses physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development across the lifespan. The other options relate to financial or medical fields and do not match the broad focus on growth. This definition aligns with developmental psychology, which studies how people evolve from infancy through adulthood.

Dialogue is an active exchange of ideas, thoughts, or perspectives through conversation. In psychology, dialogue supports problem-solving, emotional expression, and understanding between individuals. The other options involve speech delivery, silence, or monologue, which lack the mutual exchange central to dialogue. Dialogue helps build relationships, resolve conflicts, and encourage collaboration, making conversation the correct interpretation.

Dual relationships occur when a therapist and client have an additional relationship outside therapy, such as friendship or business ties. These relationships risk impairing objectivity, confidentiality, and therapeutic effectiveness. The other options describe therapy structures or scheduling patterns, which differ from boundary-related concerns. Dual relationships are ethically discouraged because they may blur roles and create conflicts of interest, affecting the therapeutic process.

Responsive listening involves focusing fully on understanding the speaker rather than preparing a response or defending a viewpoint. It requires empathy, patience, and active engagement. The other options involve judgment, interruption, or premature replies, which block effective communication. Responsive listening strengthens relationships, reduces conflict, and improves comprehension, aligning with psychological communication frameworks.

Empathy is the ability to understand and share another person’s emotional experience. It requires recognizing their feelings and mentally placing yourself in their perspective. Unlike sympathy, which expresses concern without shared understanding, empathy creates emotional resonance. The other options describe manipulation or surface-level reactions that do not reflect true emotional connection. Empathy is essential in therapy, relationships, and interpersonal communication.

Enable means providing someone with the means, tools, or authority to take action or accomplish something. It involves empowering a process or individual. The other options describe limiting, ignoring, or breaking something, which contradicts the supportive function of enabling. In psychology, enabling can also refer to unhealthy support, but in general usage, the term emphasizes granting capability or permission.

Ethics are moral principles guiding behavior, helping people determine what is right or wrong in different situations. In psychology, ethics protect clients, ensure professionalism, and prevent harm. The other options describe societal rules, government oversight, or personal opinions, none of which capture the systematic and principle-based nature of ethics. Ethical frameworks include confidentiality, informed consent, and fairness.

Feeling refers to an emotional state or reaction triggered by experiences, thoughts, or stimuli. Feelings include happiness, sadness, fear, or anger, reflecting internal emotional processes. Physical sensations or calculations do not correspond to the emotional nature of feelings. This definition aligns with psychological studies of affect, where feelings represent subjective emotional experiences that influence behavior and decision-making.

Flexibility refers to the ability to bend, adapt, or adjust without breaking. In psychology, it also relates to cognitive and emotional adaptability, allowing individuals to handle change and challenges. The other options describe memory, rigidity, or decision-making, which do not reflect this property. Flexibility supports resilience and problem-solving, making it a key trait in physical and mental contexts.

Follow-up refers to continuing or repeating an action, treatment, or process after an initial step. It ensures progress, evaluation, or completion of earlier efforts. The other options describe specific forms of follow-up, such as medical observation or checking on individuals. The general definition focuses on continuation, making it the most accurate. In psychology, follow-ups track therapy outcomes or behavioral progress.

Grief is a deep emotional sorrow experienced after the loss of someone or something meaningful. It involves sadness, longing, and emotional pain. The other options describe positive emotional states that do not reflect the distress associated with grief. In psychology, grief is understood as a multi-stage process involving denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance, making deep sorrow the correct answer.

Gifted refers to individuals with exceptional natural talents or abilities that surpass typical levels. This may include intellectual, creative, artistic, or leadership strengths. The other options describe average ability, disadvantage, or supernatural traits, which misrepresent the psychological and educational definition. Giftedness is recognized through assessments, performance, and developmental indicators.

Goals refer to the desired outcomes or aims individuals strive to achieve. They guide behavior, motivation, and planning. The other options describe unrelated objects such as football posts or currency. Psychologically, goals help structure personal growth, decision-making, and long-term development. This definition aligns with goal-setting theory, where clear objectives support progress and achievement.

Helping means giving assistance or aid to someone in need. It involves providing support, solving problems, or improving someone’s situation. The other options describe causing harm, ignoring someone, or misleading people, which contradict the positive purpose of helping. In psychology, helping behaviors relate to empathy, prosocial actions, and social responsibility.

Initiative refers to independently assessing situations and taking action without waiting for instructions. It reflects leadership, motivation, and proactive behavior. The other options describe procrastination, avoidance, or passive following, which are opposite traits. In psychology, initiative is considered a key component of self-efficacy and personal agency.

Joining means linking, connecting, or bringing things together. It involves forming associations or uniting elements. The other options represent separation or disconnection, which contradict the meaning of joining. In psychological or social contexts, joining also refers to forming relationships or entering groups, reinforcing connection and unity.

Intervention refers to taking deliberate action to change or influence a situation, often to prevent harm or improve outcomes. In psychology, intervention strategies address behavioral, emotional, or cognitive challenges. The other options involve overlooking or uninvited participation, which do not reflect structured involvement. Intervention aims to alter a course or provide support through targeted actions.