In brief: Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior. This four-part series explains what psychologists do, how the field developed, the professional milestones that shaped modern practice, and how political psychology helps explain leaders, voters and public opinion.
Read the pages in order for a complete introduction, or jump to the question you have. Each one is sourced and written for a general audience.
ReferenceWhat Is Psychology? A Plain-English GuideWhat is psychology? A plain-English guide to the science of mind and behavior: its main branches, how psychologists differ from psychiatrists, and licensing.Read →ReferenceA Brief History of Psychology: From Philosophy to ScienceA brief history of psychology, from Greek philosophy and Wundt’s 1879 lab to behaviorism, the cognitive revolution, positive psychology and replication.Read →ReferenceMilestones That Changed the Psychology ProfessionKey milestones in the psychology profession: APA’s founding, licensing laws, the DSM, the ethics code, the Goldwater Rule, parity laws, PSYPACT and 988.Read →ReferenceWhat Is Political Psychology? How the Mind Shapes PoliticsPolitical psychology studies how thoughts, emotions and group identity shape political behavior. Learn its history, core concepts and landmark studies.Read →
Part of the brossi.us reference library. See also: Understanding American Government and psychology commentary from Dr. Bart Rossi, PhD.