What does dualism refer to in the context of psychology?

In psychology, dualism refers to the belief that the mind and body exist as two distinct entities. This perspective suggests that mental phenomena, such as thoughts and consciousness, are fundamentally different from physical processes occurring in the brain and body. Dualism posits that while the body can be studied through physical sciences, the mind requires different approaches, often rooted in philosophical or spiritual analysis. This view has been influential in the history of psychology, particularly in discussions about the nature of consciousness and the relationship between mental states and physical states.

The other options present different perspectives. The understanding that mental states are rooted in physical processes aligns more with physicalism or materialism, which argue that everything about the mind can be explained in terms of physical brain activity. The third option highlights a theory of interaction rather than separation, suggesting that mental processes and brain functions actively influence each other. Lastly, the philosophical approach that considers only the physical aspects of existence negates the existence of a distinct mind and aligns more closely with purely materialistic viewpoints, contrasting with the dualist perspective. Thus, the choice that emphasizes the separation of mind and body aligns correctly with the definition of dualism in psychology.