Psychology explores what makes people tick and how environmental factors influence cognitive development and mental health. Formally established in the mid-1800s, psychology has rapidly advanced, branching into various subdisciplines.
The cognitive subdiscipline investigates how the brain works, from acquiring, processing, and storing information to underlying thought processes. Cognitive psychologists study conscious and unconscious thoughts, scrutinizing how deviations in thinking patterns can contribute to mental health issues. Cognitive psychologists use computer science and artificial intelligence (AI) to simulate and test various cognitive theories and hypotheses in their research.
Abnormal psychology delves into deviations from regular behavior, emotions, and thought patterns. To gain understanding, practitioners in this field examine patients' interpersonal relationships, societal roles, and contextual interactions. Psychologists perceive behaviors impeding the ability to fulfill these areas as abnormal. Abnormal psychology studies disorders in personality, anxiety, eating habits, and depression, assessing whether specific behaviors are adaptive (with long-term benefits) or maladaptive (with short-term benefits).
Social psychology explores group dynamics - how individuals interact and their attitudes, feelings, beliefs, and evaluations of others. Social psychologists may investigate prejudices, persuasion techniques, and how social relationships shape self-perception.
Behavioral psychology examines conditioning and how the environment affects thinking and actions. For instance, to treat a child's fear of dogs, a therapist may expose the child to a dog in a safe, controlled environment. Associating the dog with a pleasant experience may help the child address their fear. Operant conditioning uses a system of rewards and punishments to reinforce a desirable behavior.
In developmental psychology, researchers examine how growth influences cognitive changes and other aspects of life. From conception through adulthood, developmental psychologists study the progression of motor skills, language acquisition, and identity formation. Developmental psychologists identify factors that promote optimal development by understanding how physical, intellectual, and other characteristics evolve. Developmental psychologists' findings inform health care, education, and social policy decisions.
Biopsychology focuses on the physiological anatomy of the brain and its effect on actions and cognition. Biopsychologists work with patients with conditions such as epilepsy and brain injuries. These psychologists may assess how traumatic or acquired brain injuries affect patients' behavior and cognitive development. Biopsychology is also integral in psychological testing for organizations wanting to match roles with workers by assessing their personality types.
Forensic psychology intersects psychology and law. Experts in this field identify factors that cause people to commit criminal offenses. Forensic psychologists help determine if suspects have the mental fitness to undergo trials. These practitioners also work with courts to provide expert opinions on legal questions and insights into a defendant's likelihood of reoffending.
Industry/organizational psychology applies human behavior and cognition principles in а work context. Practitioners in this subdiscipline examine workplace behaviors, how key human resources work, and the psychological factors affecting staff mental health and performance.
Industry/organizational psychology informs organizations in selection and hiring, workplace improvement initiatives, training and development, and other changes that can improve relationships and employee experiences.
Relatedly, consumer psychology studies the psychological and emotional factors motivating consumers to purchase products/services. Understanding these aspects allows business to tailor their marketing strategies, brand positioning, and offerings to target and influence the right customer segments.
