There are many careers in psychology. Psychology includes both research, through which we learn fundamental things about human and animal behaviour, and practice, through which that knowledge is applied in helping people to solve problems. Psychology is an extremely varied field. Psychologists conduct research, serve as consultants, diagnose and treat people, and teach future psychologists and other types of students. They test intelligence and personality.
As scientists, psychologists use scientific methods of observation, experimentation and analysis. But psychologists also need to be creative in the way they apply scientific findings.
Psychologists are frequently innovators, inventing new approaches to people and societies. They develop theories and test them in their research. As they collect new information, these findings can be used by practitioners in their work with clients and patients.
As practitioners psychologists work in laboratories, hospitals, courtrooms, schools and universities, prisons and corporate offices. They work with business executives, performers, and athletes to reduce stress and improve performance. They advise lawyers on jury selection and cooperate with educators on school reform. Immediately following a disaster, such as a plane crush or bombing, psychologists help victims and bystanders recover from the shock of the event.
Involved in all aspects of our world, psychologists must keep up with what is happening around us. When you are a psychologist, your education never ends.
Most psychologists say they love their work. They say that they have a variety of daily tasks and the flexibility of their schedules.
The study of psychology is a good preparation for many other professions. Many employers are interested in the skills of collecting, analyzing and interpreting data, and their experience with statistics and experimental design.
Psychology is a very diverse field with hundreds of career paths. We all know about caring for people with mental and emotional disorders. Some other jobs like helping with the design of computer systems are less well-known. What all psychologists have in common is an interest in the minds of both humans and animals.
