Psychology
Scientific study of human behaviour
and mental processes
What is Psychology?
Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes — specifically, understanding how people think, feel, act and interact with themselves and with others.
While many think that psychologists only sit and listen to people’s problems, there’s more to psychology than meets the eye. A psychologist seeks to discover what makes people behave in certain ways and uses this understanding to solve problems. This can range from boosting productivity in the workplace (industrial/organisational psychology) to understanding consumer behaviour to convince them to buy goods and services (consumer psychology).
By undertaking a course in psychology, you will learn the fundamental principles of psychology and gain a comprehensive understanding of the human mind, helping you on your journey to becoming a qualified psychologist. You will also be taught various research methods such as lab experiments, field surveys and natural observations that are crucial in the field of psychology.
Field of Psychology
The study of brain function at the neuron and neurotransmitter level, and how it can influence thoughts, behaviour and emotions.
Relates to assessing and treating serious mental disorders and psychiatric problems (e.g. depression, eating disorders, schizophrenia).
Focuses on solving a diverse range of everyday problems and disorders with less severe symptoms, such as marital conflict, career advice and coping with negative events.
Deals with the study of mental processes such as learning, memory,
problem-solving, decision-making and perception.
Deals with the psychology of teaching and seeks to understand and improve how people learn in educational settings.
The application of psychology in the field of criminal investigation and law. Applications include performing psychological assessments for criminals, evaluating a witness’s credibility and criminal profiling.
Relates to improving productivity and efficiency in the workplace while maximising the physical and mental well-being of employees.
Deals with how people’s thoughts, feelings and behaviours are influenced by others, whether real, imagined or implied.