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The Different Career Options for Psychologists Essay

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Psychology is the scientific study of actions and behaviors. Psychologists often form hypotheses and test these through studies and research. They carefully follow the scientific method to gather data. The research methods used by psychologists vary by branches of study. These methods include controlled laboratory experiments, and personality, intelligence, aptitude, or performance tests. Other methods of research are interviews, observations, questionnaires, surveys, and clinical studies. There are a wide range of careers under the umbrella of psychology. According to the American Psychological Association, there are fifty-six different divisions of psychology. Some of these divisions include abnormal, biological, clinical, …show more content…

The most common type of psychology is clinical psychology. Clinical psychology deals with the treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Problems a clinical psychologist may treat include depression, schizophrenia, or phobias. They often consult with physicians about the physical symptoms a patient has that are caused by underlying psychological issues, such as anorexia nervosa. Counseling psychologists advise people on how to take advantage of their resources and cope with everyday problems in life. These professionals use psychotherapy, teaching, and scientific research dealing with individuals, families, and organizations. Neuropsychologists study relationships between the brain and behavior. They study the way the brain makes and stores memories, and the way an injury can affect emotions and behavior. Neuropsychologists often use imaging techniques such as PET and MRI. They also help victims of brain injuries resume a normal life. Educational psychology focuses on how effective teaching and learning take place. It deals with learning environments, and students’ abilities and motivation. Educational psychologists often meet with parents and teachers to determine the best strategy for healthy learning, particularly for disabled and gifted children. Psychology is often confused with psychiatry. Although both studies are those of mental health, they are not synonymous. Psychiatrists are actually medical doctors who have a specialty

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