Psychology or the study of human behavior is divided into many different sections or types of psychology. This summary of nineteen disciplines also represents nineteen possible careers or jobs in psychology!
Readers interested in a psychological career may find How Much Do Psychologists Make? helpful.
Types of Psychology, Counseling, and Therapy
Many of these psychological disciplines overlap. For example, a school psychologist may assess and treat a child with a psychological disorder. Or, the child may be referred to a clinical psychologist for more involved therapy. The lines between these specialities aren't clear cut, but there are differences between the disciplines.
Clinical psychologists treat people who exhibit mental or emotional disorders which range from uncomfortable reactions to the stress of daily life to extreme psychological disorders.
Community psychology is mostly preventative in nature. These psychologists specialize in human behavior at home, at school, and in neighborhoods.
Counseling psychologists are therapists who help clients adjust to life, make important decisions, and help people cope. This field of human behavior is similar to clinical psychology.
Developmental psychology focuses on human development from birth to death. This type of psychology describes, measures, and explains age-related changes in behavior.
Educational psychology is research-oriented, and focuses on how people learn. Teachers, school administrators, and guidance counselors may apply the findings of educational psychologists in schools, colleges, or universities.
Environmental psychologists attempt to improve the interactions between humans and the environment. The management of natural resources, effects of extreme environments, and architectural design are part of this branch of human behavior.
Experimental psychology focuses on basic processes of human interaction and biology. This type of psychology often involves studies on animals and people.
Family psychologists are therapists who concentrate on the family and how it affects our development and lives. Sexual dysfunction and family counseling may be subsections of family psychology.
Forensic psychologists study criminal behavior, and often assist law enforcement agencies in criminal investigations.
Geriatric psychology focuses on the health and well-being of older people. This field of human behavior includes both practical and research applications.
Health psychology is a branch of human behavior that is concerned with the psychological implications of actions on health. For instance, smoking, weight gain, stress management and fitness can affect our mental health – and that’s what health therapists focus on.
Organizational psychology focuses on our relationships to work. This study of human behavior includes career counseling, cross-training, retirement planning, and job productivity.
Physiological psychology is about the genetic and physical roots of psychological disorders, such as how our brains change due to drug use or how cells develop and function.
Positive psychology is a relatively new area in the study of human behavior. It encompasses a holistic approach to mental wellness, with a shift away from disease to personal wellness and health.
Psychometrics focuses on psychological testing and assessment. Psychometrists are employed at private companies and government organizations.
Rehabilitation psychologists help people with handicaps, such as birth trauma or stroke, improve their functioning in the world. This field of human behavior ranges from birth to old age.
School psychology focuses on the intellectual and emotional development of young people.
Social psychology explores how we live in the world. Pop cultural, group behavior, the media, and our attitudes and opinions are all part of social psychology.
Sport psychologists are therapists who concentrate on the mental and emotional factors that affect professional or amateur athletes. Sport therapists attempt to maximize motivation and performance.
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Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen - Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen is a full-time writer and blogger in Vancouver, BC, and the creator of the Quips and Tips blog series.
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