Psychology as an independent science arose relatively recently - in the 19th century. It originated more than 2 thousand years ago. The term "psychology" was introduced by the German philosopher H. Wolf in 1732
It is translated as "psyche" - soul, "logos" - teaching, word, science. Based on this, it becomes clear what psychology studies - the soul of people and animals. To be more precise, initially scientists were really looking for the human soul, but, having never found it (or rather, not being able to prove where it is, measure it or somehow isolate it), they began to study the psyche, since it turned out to be more possible.
What is the psyche
Man does not just exist in the world, but constantly interacts with it. And for this you need a tool. The psyche is the ability of the brain to analyze and synthesize information that comes from the environment through the senses, and the correspondingway to respond to it. An example of its action is receiving sensations, an emotional reaction to ongoing events. That is, it is a tool of interaction. Temperament, character and abilities also depend on the individual characteristics of mental work. This also applies to what psychology studies.
Branches of psychology
In order to understand the peculiarities of the behavioral reactions of an individual or even a group of people (age, social), one industry is not enough. Therefore, psychology as a science that studies a person is divided into several areas. For example:
- general psychology, which summarizes theoretical and experimental research on the psychology of personality and the processes it cognizes;
- social psychology (synthesis of sociology and psychology), dealing with social research. Studies masses, crowds, nations, groups, interpersonal relationships, leadership;
- psychodiagnostics - is associated with the study of methods for recognizing the human psyche, its features.
In addition to general, there are also applied and special industries. So, they distinguish age, pedagogical, military, medical, management psychology and many others. Perhaps that is why many people ask the question: "What does psychology study?"
Practical application
Today, hundreds of different directions are the subject of study of this science. Of course, the basis for all is general psychology. But lately it has not appearedas many independent areas as synthesis or fusion with other sciences (medicine, engineering, pedagogy, sociology, etc.). Understanding the question "what studies the subject of psychology" makes it possible to apply it widely. When introducing new methods and technologies (for example, when teaching at school), psychology takes into account the peculiarities of the age of children, the correct distribution of loads so as not to overwork the delicate psyche. Psychologists help to resolve conflicts in enterprises, sometimes they contribute to the introduction of trainings for better staff training. There are also family psychologists who are engaged in saving relationships or helping to survive parting, divorce. Management Psychology
does leadership by studying what personality traits make a person stand out from the crowd.
Important
The main thing that studies psychology is the properties, characteristics of temperament, inclinations and abilities of the individual. Thus, it helps a person to understand himself. This science also helps in choosing a profession, allows you to interact more effectively with people. With knowledge of psychology, it is easier to understand others, the motives of their behavior, desires. And helping other people achieve a goal is hard not to become a successful person, isn't it?
