PSY511 Environmental Psychology Assignment 1 Fall 2025 Idea Solution

Environmental Psychology (PSY511)

Assignment 1 — Fall 2025 | Total Marks: 20 | Due Date: 07-11-2025

Question:

Read the given scenarios and identify which type of theory (Broad in Scope, Focused in Scope, Empirical, or Non-Empirical) each represents. Then justify your answer in 3–4 lines with logical reasoning.

Assignment Solution Table

Sr. No.	Scenario	Identification (1 Mark)	Justification (4 Marks)
1	A psychologist is studying how people behave in parks, shopping malls, schools, and offices at the same time, trying to build a general understanding of human interaction with the environment in many settings.	Broad in Scope Theory	This scenario covers multiple settings and behaviors, which indicates a broad and general approach. Broad-scope theories aim to explain patterns across diverse environments, providing a wide understanding rather than focusing on a single variable or situation.
2	A researcher only studies noise levels in classrooms and how they affect student attention, without looking at other environmental factors.	Focused in Scope Theory	This example concentrates on one specific environmental factor—noise—and its effect on attention. Focused-scope theories are limited in range and study a single cause-and-effect relationship rather than broad generalizations.
3	A scientist collects data from hundreds of buildings to test how lighting affects worker productivity and publishes results backed by experiments and surveys.	Empirical Theory	The theory is empirical because it is based on measurable evidence, experiments, and surveys. Empirical theories rely on systematic data collection and observation to validate claims about environmental influences on behavior.
4	An early philosopher suggests that humans feel calm near nature because their soul is connected to the natural world, but provides no research evidence or data.	Non-Empirical Theory	This theory is non-empirical as it is based on personal belief or philosophical reasoning rather than evidence. It lacks experimentation, data, or scientific validation, which are essential features of empirical theories.

Summary

Environmental psychology uses both broad and focused theories to understand human–environment interactions. Empirical theories strengthen understanding through observation and evidence, while non-empirical theories contribute conceptual insights but lack scientific proof. Balanced integration of both helps create meaningful environmental research frameworks.

Note: This answer is provided as just an Example of the Assignment Solution. Please read it carefully and rephrase it in your own words before submission.