Psychology as an independent science arose relatively recently - in the 19th century. It was born even 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” - doctrine, word, science. Based on this, it becomes clear what psychology is studying - the soul of people and animals. To be more precise, initially the scientists really searched for the
human soul, but, having never found (or rather, having failed to prove where it is, to measure it or somehow isolate it), they began to study the psyche, as it turned out to be more possible.
What is the psyche
Man does not just exist in the world, but constantly interacts with him. And this requires a tool. The psyche is the ability of the brain to analyze and synthesize information that comes from the environment through the senses, and accordingly respond to it. An example of its action is the receipt of sensations, an emotional reaction to events. That is, it is an interaction tool. Temperament, character and ability also depend on the individual characteristics of mental work. This also applies to what psychology is studying.
Branches of psychology
In order to understand the features 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 man is divided into several areas. For instance:
- general psychology, which summarizes the theoretical and experimental studies of the psychology of personality and its processes;
- social psychology (a synthesis of sociology and psychology), engaged in social research. He studies the masses, the crowd, 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, psychology of management and many others. Perhaps that is why many people ask the question: "What does psychology study?"
Practical use
Today, the subject of this science is hundreds of different directions. Of course, the basis for all is general psychology. But in recent years, it has appeared not so much in independent directions, as in synthesis or fusion with other sciences (medicine, engineering, pedagogy, sociology, etc.). Understanding the question “what is the subject of psychology studying ” makes it possible to widely use it. When introducing new methods and technologies (for example, when studying 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 resolve conflicts in enterprises, sometimes they promote the introduction of trainings for better training of staff. There are family psychologists who are engaged in saving relationships or helping to survive separation, divorce. Management psychology
engaged in leadership, studying what
personality traits distinguish a person from the crowd.
Important
The main thing that psychology studies is the properties, characteristics of temperament, inclination, and personality abilities. Thus, it helps a person understand himself. This science also helps in choosing a profession, allows you to more effectively interact with people. With a knowledge of psychology, it is easier to understand others, the motives of their behavior, desires. And helping other people achieve their goal, it’s hard not to become a successful person, right?