Definition of Psychology
Psychology is defined as the study of the psyche, or of the mind. Psychologists study elements of thought
processes and behavior, how people interact with each other and how the human brain works. Some psychologists also
study similar functions in animals. As a science, psychology brings in elements of sociology, natural sciences and
the humanities in general.
> History of Psychology
Our modern definition of psychology developed relatively recently with the work of Sigmund Freud in the
late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, as well as that of his student Karl Jung. From these pioneering
psychologists came our typical vision of a patient on a couch, talking to the psychologist about his or her various
problems, past traumas and other elements.
However, psychology was not always approached in this way, and more and more modern practitioners are moving away
from the psychotherapy approach developed by Freud. In the beginning, psychology was an offshoot of philosophy,
deriving its knowledge from various thinkers in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. These ancient cultures even
participated in some psychological experimentation, laying the groundwork for future developments of the
science.
> Modern Psychology
Today's psychology addresses a number of different concerns. In fact, the definition of psychology can
vary depending upon what branch of the science one is discussing. Clinical psychology still uses many of Freud's
techniques. Child psychology focuses on the needs and development of children. Experimental psychology continues to
push the bounds of our knowledge of the human brain and mind. Social psychology studies the interactions of
individuals with groups. Some psychologists specialize in certain types of mental illness, working to help those
who suffer from schizophrenia and other problems.
As the science of psychology continues to expand and grow, and we continue to learn more about how our minds and
brains process information and emotion, the definition and practice of psychology might change even more. In the
mean time, a number of skilled and dedicated scientists are working to learn everything they can about the human
mind, how it works, and how to treat various psychological disorders.
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