Purchase Solution

Rational and Irrational Behaviors in Psychology

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

Consider the fact that at one point in US history the decision to own slaves was considered rational and informed. Today we would consider the decision to own slaves "irrational". For this project:

Identify one other example of a decision (past or present) that was once considered "rational" but that is now reviewed as "irrational". Do not analyze a personal decision but one from a published or academic source.
Explain, in detail, why the decision was once considered "rational" but would now be considered "irrational".
Identify the decision theory you believe was used in the original decision making within your example. You may select from expected utility theory, prospect theory, regret theory, pseudocertainty, satisficing, or noncompensatory strategies. Be sure to fully support "why" the theory you selected was present. Simply naming a theory won't be enough...you need to support your answer.

Purchase this Solution

Solution Summary

This solution discusses the changes in human mindset when it comes to what constitutes rational and irrational behavior, especially in relation to abnormal psychology.

Solution Preview

This rational vs. irrational mindset is deeply expressed in the field of abnormal psychology. For centuries human beings have been fascinated by other humans' display of behavior that was outside of the norm and have tried to come up with all kinds of possible explanation to why individuals behaved "strangely." Today, our understanding and treatment of abnormal psychology covers a broad array of rational factors such as ...

Solution provided by:
Education
  • BA, Brooklyn College
  • MBA/HCM, Phoenix University
Recent Feedback
  • "Thank you!"
  • "Thank you!"
  • "Thank you!"
  • "Thank you!"
  • "Thank you!!"
Purchase this Solution


Free BrainMass Quizzes
V Axis Diagnostic Tool

It's important for all therapists to know what the V Axis Diagnostic tool is and how to use it. This quiz should be taken by learners who are not familiar with the V Axis Diagnostic Tool or who need to refresh their knowledge.

Concepts in Personality Psychology

This quiz will test student's understanding of concepts relating to personality psychology.

Sigmund Freud

How much do you know about Sigmund Freud's theories? Find out with this quiz!

Key Psychology Theories and their Developers

Match which psychologist developed and/or contributed to which theory.

Common Characteristics of Qualitative Methods

This quiz evaluates the common characteristics seen in qualitative methodology.