Margaret Floy Washburn was a pioneering figure in psychology, known for being the first woman to earn a Ph.D. in the field in the U.S. Her work in animal psychology, particularly through her book 'The Animal Mind,' challenged existing introspective methods and contributed to behaviorism. Washburn also developed the motor theory of consciousness, linking physical actions to mental states. A champion for women's education, she mentored many at Vassar College and was recognized by the APA and the National Academy of Sciences.
Show More
Margaret Floy Washburn was born in Harlem, New York, and received a rare education for women at the time
Denied Admission to Columbia University
Despite being denied admission as a full student, Washburn attended classes as an auditor and was later encouraged to apply to Cornell University
In 1894, Washburn became the first woman to earn a Ph.D. in psychology in the United States, paving the way for future generations of female psychologists
Washburn's book "The Animal Mind" challenged traditional beliefs by arguing for the existence of consciousness in animals based on observational behavior
Washburn's theory proposed that consciousness is closely related to muscle movements and that thoughts are intertwined with physical actions
Washburn's work combined behaviorist views on motor actions with introspective methods, providing a unique perspective on the study of the mind and its processes
Washburn's decision to remain unmarried allowed her to continue her academic career during a time when married women were often excluded from teaching positions
Washburn mentored and collaborated with female students, involving them in research and co-authoring papers, to advance women in psychology
Washburn's contributions were recognized when she became the second female president of the American Psychological Association and the second woman to be inducted as a fellow into the National Academy of Sciences, leaving an indelible mark on the field and inspiring future generations of psychologists
00
Despite facing ______ at Columbia University, she pursued her education and obtained her doctorate in ______ under Edward Bradford Titchener.
gender-based restrictions
1894
01
Margaret Floy Washburn's field of pioneering work
Pioneered in animal behavior and comparative psychology.
02
Margaret Floy Washburn's research diversity
Studied a wide variety of species, beyond common rats and pigeons.
