Psychology: A Diverse Field
Clinical psychology is the study of psychological disorders and problems including emotional, mental, and behavioral disorders. Researchers in this area study questions like how to best treat a particularly diagnosis. For example, which therapy works best? Practicing clinical psychologists are commonly depicted on television. They assess and treat people who are experiencing psychological problems and disorders.
Counseling psychology is very similar to clinical psychology except that counseling psychology focuses on normal functioning, rather than psychological disorders. Topics of research include how to best help people through transitions in life, like divorce. Practicing counseling psychologists help people adjust to life changes and transitions, and help with vocational assessment and career guidance.
Developmental psychology is the study of human development across the lifespan. Researchers study emotional, intellectual, and physical development in children, adolescents, and adults. Topics might include whether most adults experience a midlife crisis, or might examine how babies learn to crawl. Applied developmental psychologists assess children to ensure that they are meeting normal developmental milestones and develop interventions for all phases of life (for example, creating a nursing home that meets the needs of older adults).
Forensic psychology is concerned with how psychology can inform legal issues. Researchers might study ways of interviewing eyewitnesses and how to ensure that the testimony is accurate. Forensic psychologists provide expert testimony in criminal, civil, and family courts cases. They also work with police, lawyers, and judges.
Health psychology is the study of how psychological factors influence health and illness. Research topics include whether relaxation techniques and social support can help people overcome illness more quickly. Health psychologists create programs to promote health and wellness. For example, some might create programs to help people learn how to manage stress, stop smoking, or lose weight.
Industrial/organizational psychology applies psychological principles to the workplace. Psychologists in this area might examine questions like what personality profile makes a good employee. IO psychologists help companies conduct job interviews, train personnel, and make the workplace more efficient and pleasant.
School psychology is concerned with how the school and educational environment relates to behavior and development. School psychologists apply psychological principles to the school environment. Research topics include the effect of the classroom climate on student learning, and ways to promote appropriate behavior in the classroom. School psychologists assess and counsel students, work with parents and teachers, and develop behavioral interventions.
As you can see, psychology is diverse. Not all psychologists conduct therapy or even study people. What
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