D

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DEVELOPMENTAL THEORY

1. theory based on the continuity of human development. 2. The idea that mental retardation is due to slower than

DFFITS

Used in regression analysis to diagnose problems.

DIAGNOSTIC FORMULATION

The comprehensive patient evaluation that includes a patients history, results of psychological tests, diagnosis of the disorder and the therpy

DIANOIA

Philosophy. Reasoning based on sensory perception and experience. See understanding.

DICHOTIC

Relating or effecting the ears differntly. Compare diotic.

DIFFERENCE JUDGMENT

The ability to tell the difference between 2 different stimuli.

DIFFERENTIAL REINFORCEMENT OF HIGH RATE (DRH)

Reinforcement that is dependent of a fast response to stimuli.

DIFFUSION OF RESPONSIBILITY

The lessening of responsibility by individuals in a group situation or social collective.

DILATION

Process of enlargement.

DIPHENHYDRAMINE

A sedating histamine used to suppress allergic responses.

DIRECT PERCEPTION

A theory that we can perceive an object on distal stimulus alone. See ecological perception. Compare constructivism.

DIRECTIONS TEST

An intelligence test used to see how a person follows instructions.

DISARRANGED-SENTENCE TEST

A test where a sentence is put in the correct order.

DISCOUNTING PRINCIPLE

Theory where a cause is given less weight if ther are other causes possible. Compare augmentation principle.

DISCRIMINAL DISPERSION

Responses distributed around a given mean in an experiment of discriminations.

DISCUSSION METHOD

A method of teaching where teacher and students actively partake in the learning process.

DISINHIBITION

1. Lessening or loss of normal control exerted by the cerebral cortex. 2. Conditioning experiments where a response has been

DISORGANIZED BEHAVIOR

Any behaviour that is self contradictory or inconsistent.

DISPOSITION

A behavioural trait that distinguishes from person from others. Compare situational attribution.

DISSOCIATIVE PROCESS

A process disrupting normal integrative functions of memory, consciousness or perception of the environment. See dissociative disorders.