What is a concept in psychological terms?

In psychological terms, a concept refers to a mental classification that encompasses similar objects, ideas, or phenomena. This understanding is fundamental in cognitive psychology, where concepts serve as mental frameworks that help individuals organize and interpret information. Concepts allow people to categorize their experiences and knowledge, facilitating effective communication and problem-solving.

For instance, the concept of "dog" includes various breeds and characteristics that define what a dog is, rather than focusing on any particular instance of a dog. By grouping similar items into a broader category, concepts contribute to our ability to generalize from specific instances, create associations, and retrieve relevant information when needed. This process is essential for learning and cognitive functioning, as it helps us make sense of the world around us.