being a psychology student essay

• Career Advisor
• Career Coach
• Career Counselling
• What Should I Study?
• Business School
• Best MBA Schools
• Business Analytics
• Business Degrees
• Management Courses
• Marketing Courses
• MBA Online Courses
• Project Management
• Education Masters
• Health Management
• Mental Health
• Mental Health Nursing
• Nursing Degrees
• Nurse Postgraduate
• Psychology Courses
• Psychology Degree
• Social Work
• Cyber Security
• Data Analytics
• Data Science
• Masters Degrees
• Legal Overview

Why I Study Psychology (10 Essays)

Why I Study Psychology  is a collection of short essays. Each student explains their motivation for choosing psychology.

Psychology students are often motivated by personal experiences and a wish for healthier, happier communities. The essays demonstrate the value from having a vision for your career – whether it’s detailed or “big picture” – before you start a  psychology degree . Having a long-term goal in mind offers a reliable source of study motivation.

Why I Chose Psychology Essays

As part of a national essay competition, current and future psychology students were asked to explain their study motivation. Each student describes in 250 words or less (a) why I chose psychology as a major and (b) how I’m motivated to succeed at psychology studies. The best, most inspiring essays are published here.

1. Motivation

We all know that there will almost always be something to do that sounds much more appealing than our studies, so why do we study if there is something better? Motivation, that’s why. Everyone has their own motivating factor that keeps them in line with studying. Mine is pretty general and that is my future.

I have dreams of becoming a psychologist and helping people throughout my life. I also have a huge passion for American Sign Language. I plan to merge these two goals into one for  my future career . I don’t want to be just any psychologist, I want to be a psychologist that is open to Deaf people and hearing people alike.  I want Deaf people to feel comfortable coming to me without the need of a third person interpreter who is usually a stranger . Many Deaf people feel uncomfortable visiting a psychologist because of the need for a third person. I plan to make a step towards breaking that barrier by being able to signor speak with any patient who comes to me.

With all these huge goals I know that I have to be very on top of studies and make sure I continue to stay on track and do my best. All of these reasons put together make up my ideal future and therefore my motivation to study.

~ Hannah Reis, Palomar College

2. My Dream

We live in a world filled with hurt and suffering, and a place that is not equal for all. My dream is to leverage my unique set of skills, abilities, privileges, resources, and knowledge in a way that increases equality and privilege for all (not just people with white skin). I am pursuing a degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology which combines psychology and business.

I feel most alive when I am volunteering with my family at The Christian Children’s Home of Ohio (CCHO) which is a non-profit orphanage for children. I love working with the children there, and it hurts my heart when I see them being forced to leave once they are eighteen without any further aid or support. Due to this fact, I have decided that after I get several years of work experience applying psychology principles to the business world,  I want to start my own non-profit organization that aids young adults who grew up in foster care or orphanages . Once they have turned eighteen the government will no longer provide very much aid to them; I want to supply them with the additional skills and services that they need to make it in the real world, and give them the emotional support that they may not have.

One of the main services I want to provide them is taking them to do mission work because the best way to grow as a person and gain perspective is through service and travel. When college gets hard, I hold on tight to this dream because I know my studies will help me achieve this dream.

~ Alyssa Powers, The University of Akron

3. A Catalyst for Change

The incredible transformation I have experienced in my own life from the power of the therapeutic relationship motivates me to immerse myself in my studies and move closer towards my goal of becoming a psychologist. Recognizing how the quality of my own life has been profoundly enhanced by self-reflection, the invaluable lesson of how to learn from suffering, and coming to a deeper understanding of who I am, encourages me to try and be a catalyst for this kind of change in other’s lives. I’m motivated to empower people to feel confident enough in who they are that they don’t feel the need to bring others down.

When life as a student feels exceptionally challenging, I remind myself of the impact that the work I wish to practice has on people’s lives and those around them. I strongly believe large scale change happens on the individual level first, and if we want to see a world where we value the earth and all the people living on it, we have to do the work with ourselves first.  I want to help people in their transformation towards becoming more unconditionally loving, tolerant, and compassionate people . I think when people are more comfortable with, and accepting of, who they are, they are consequently kinder and more loving towards those around them. Encouraging this kind of growth first on an individual level, and ultimately on a global level, motivates me to not only get through, but thrive within my program.

~ Hannah Freund, California Institute of Integral Studies

4. Reshaping Mental Health

People who are given psychiatric diagnoses experience some of the worst prejudice and discrimination. They are more likely to be the victims of violence, have a harder time securing jobs and housing, and constantly come face-to-face with the harmful stereotypes that state that these individuals are violent and unpredictable. As such, much research needs to be done to understand the cause of such distress, as well as to develop effective interventions and achieve healthy minds.

Our current mental health paradigm positions mental distress as biological in origin and best treated with medical interventions. However this paradigm has conversely led to an increase in stigma and an increase in the number of people on disability for mental health related reasons. I was one of the fortunate few who was able to pursue a college degree despite being given a severe diagnosis and a hopeless prognosis. However, I know that much of my success has been due to luck and privilege, and  the opportunities that I have been afforded are an exception, not a rule. I am striving to change that.

It is my hope that, through increased research and advocacy, society can come to understand that extreme distress is often a message about something that is wrong in a person’s world, and as such, is profoundly meaningful and can be understood. Furthermore, by understanding the psychosocial origins of distress – trauma, poverty, inequality, etc. – we can refocus upstream and create policies that protect against these stressors in the first place.

~ name withheld, Mount Holyoke College

5. C’s Get Degrees

It is said that “C’s get degrees”, but that isn’t enough for me. C’s show an average amount of work, an average amount of time, an average amount of effort. “Average” is not something that I want to be known as. I want to be known as the girl who kept moving forward, went above and beyond, and never looked back. My driving force is making my family proud and reaching my ultimate goal—becoming a school psychologist.

I am the very first in my family to attend college. Every time the topic of school or my future is mentioned, I can see on their faces that they are overwhelmed with pride. When I received my Associate’s degree, seeing my grandpa cry made me realize how special my academic journey is to them. They have given up so much and have supported me in every way, making them proud is the very least I could do in return.

Becoming a school psychologist has been my dream career since I was in middle school.  The thought of being able to connect and help a child grow both academically and socially is the greatest reward I could ever receive . Every time I am procrastinating typing a paper, not studying when I know I should have, or wanting to give up on a difficult problem, I think about my end goal. Making a difference to even just one child with make all of school worth it.

~ Haleigh Cordeiro, California Polytechnic State University

6. Find Your Unconscious

Psychologists have discovered reasons, stages, and correlations among our biopsychosocial make-up. Over the centuries, they have managed to explain why humans experience what occurs in everyday life. They provide answers when we have questions about ourselves; it is for this reason that I strive to major in psychology.

I believe that I can make people in my environment, as well as myself, healthier by providing some sense of clarity whenever life situations become foggy. My dream is to someday become a successful industrial-psychologist. Why not a clinical psychologist? Working one-on-one with individuals who are struggling would definitely bring me pleasure. However,  I believe that I would have a greater impact within my society by helping larger groups . This dream of mine to become an industrial-psychologist would allow me to make the environment of common day people the most comfortable and enjoyable one.

Through the study of psychology, I will be able to know what qualities are the most necessary to enrich the daily lives of people and ensure that I apply them to my work. What drives me? The fact that I have seen psychologists help my family make sense of one of the most difficult things that we have gone through. Psychologists helped my sister facing anorexia nervosa deal with her disorder and helped my family become a strong support system to aid my sister’s recuperation. I want to know that I can help other people, psychology will open the doors to this dream of mine.

~ Iridian, Cal State University of Long Beach

7. My Dream

Over 22 million children in the United States do not live with their biological mother and father and reside with their grandparents. This means that 3 percent of children living in America face the same situation as me. My father and mother were teenagers when they had me, so raising a baby girl was a difficult task for them. Neither of my parents went to college either, so having me took a toll on their lives. For the both of them, college was an opportunity to better their education and be successful, but with me, that would have been harder for them. Living with my grandparents was the best option for me.

I am currently experiencing teenage life and I can understand why raising a child, when you are only a child yourself, is a daunting responsibility. I commend my parents because they choose to provide a better life for me. They wanted to prevent me from facing adversity, they shielded me from their struggles.  When I enter college, my goal is not just to pass my classes, it is to make something of myself . I know my parents would want that for me.

My dream is to work up to my doctorate and become a psychiatrist, fulfilling every opportunity and experience that comes my way. Psychiatrist  Carl Gustav Jung  once said “I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become”, and through my hardship, I choose to overcome and prepare for my destiny.

~ Nina Grizzle

8. Art Therapy

My love for psychology began my junior year when I took the AP course. What was supposed to be a schedule-filling elective credit accidentally grew into a genuine fascination.  I found myself going above and beyond the curriculum purely out of curiosity . My interest in what we were discussing in class every day would often send me down long, thought-provoking paths that motivated me to hunt down explanations to the answers of questions I didn’t know I had. But once I had the answers, they seemed to be demanding further explanation, and I was always more than happy to oblige.

With my future education in this field, I hope to further develop new methods of art therapy that will aid those suffering from different mental disorders and cognitive declines. I feel that experimenting with the effects that art has on people’s brain chemistry will open up a new type of therapy that can be clinically prescribed. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness,  approximately 52.9 million  adults in the United States suffer from mental illnesses. This new form of therapy could possibly improve the mental state of the millions of people impacted while inspiring the creation of art.

~ Taylor Himes, University of Texas San Antonio

9. If You Put Your Mind To It

For as long as I can remember, I knew that I wanted to make a difference in the world. I knew that the first step was to attend an accredited university, and that university happens to be Michigan State. I went into college with the dream of becoming a doctor, however, I had a change of heart.

At the beginning of my freshmen year, the unthinkable happened. My dad committed suicide. My world came crashing down. It was a complete shock. My dad always kept all his feelings masked. I never knew what he was going through, and everyday I regret not paying closer attention. Not a day goes by where I don’t think about him. If only I had known. I could’ve done something. That experience then motivated me to change my major to psychology.

I always wanted to make a difference, and now I know just how I am going to be able to accomplish that dream. I want to help people who are going through what my dad endured.  I want to be there for them, to help them overcome their inner demons. I want to let them know that their lives are worth living.  Losing a family member to suicide is one of the most detrimental events that anyone can ever endure, and if I can one day prevent someone from experiencing that, then I would have accomplished my goal; I will make a difference.

~ Kayla Harper, Michigan State University

10. Motivated by God to Help Others

I’ve heard from so many different people how difficult college can be. Late nights, big tests, difficult and early classes, that doesn’t even sound like fun. The only thing that keeps me moving towards college is the idea of being able to help other people when I graduate.

In December of 2016 I travelled halfway around the world to the Philippines. While I was there I met 15 wonderful children with horrible backgrounds. The love these children missed out on for so many years is heartbreaking. My future goal is to study Psychology and Religion at  Liberty University .

The dream that keeps me motivated to go back to school is the idea that I could help so many people , not just children, but anyone who needs someone willing to listen and talk about their problems. People need more people to care and who want to listen. If people would feel the love that God made for them this world would be a much better place.

~ Trinity Rake, Liberty University

How Long Does It Take to Get a Psychology Degree?

• About Author
• Latest Posts

Writing Team

Latest posts from writing team.

• 7 Proven Time Management Tips for Online Students - April 29, 2024
• Best Online Tutoring Software to Create Training Courses - April 19, 2024
• Study Planner and Timetable Template - March 30, 2024

How to Write a Psychology Essay

Saul Mcleod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul Mcleod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

Learn about our Editorial Process

Olivia Guy-Evans, MSc

Associate Editor for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MSc Psychology of Education

Olivia Guy-Evans is a writer and associate editor for Simply Psychology. She has previously worked in healthcare and educational sectors.

On This Page:

Before you write your essay, it’s important to analyse the task and understand exactly what the essay question is asking. Your lecturer may give you some advice – pay attention to this as it will help you plan your answer.

Next conduct preliminary reading based on your lecture notes. At this stage, it’s not crucial to have a robust understanding of key theories or studies, but you should at least have a general “gist” of the literature.

After reading, plan a response to the task. This plan could be in the form of a mind map, a summary table, or by writing a core statement (which encompasses the entire argument of your essay in just a few sentences).

After writing your plan, conduct supplementary reading, refine your plan, and make it more detailed.

It is tempting to skip these preliminary steps and write the first draft while reading at the same time. However, reading and planning will make the essay writing process easier, quicker, and ensure a higher quality essay is produced.

Components of a Good Essay

Now, let us look at what constitutes a good essay in psychology. There are a number of important features.

• Global Structure – structure the material to allow for a logical sequence of ideas. Each paragraph / statement should follow sensibly from its predecessor. The essay should “flow”. The introduction, main body and conclusion should all be linked.
• Each paragraph should comprise a main theme, which is illustrated and developed through a number of points (supported by evidence).
• Knowledge and Understanding – recognize, recall, and show understanding of a range of scientific material that accurately reflects the main theoretical perspectives.
• Critical Evaluation – arguments should be supported by appropriate evidence and/or theory from the literature. Evidence of independent thinking, insight, and evaluation of the evidence.
• Quality of Written Communication – writing clearly and succinctly with appropriate use of paragraphs, spelling, and grammar. All sources are referenced accurately and in line with APA guidelines.

In the main body of the essay, every paragraph should demonstrate both knowledge and critical evaluation.

There should also be an appropriate balance between these two essay components. Try to aim for about a 60/40 split if possible.

Most students make the mistake of writing too much knowledge and not enough evaluation (which is the difficult bit).

It is best to structure your essay according to key themes. Themes are illustrated and developed through a number of points (supported by evidence).

Choose relevant points only, ones that most reveal the theme or help to make a convincing and interesting argument.

Knowledge and Understanding

Remember that an essay is simply a discussion / argument on paper. Don’t make the mistake of writing all the information you know regarding a particular topic.

You need to be concise, and clearly articulate your argument. A sentence should contain no unnecessary words, a paragraph no unnecessary sentences.

Each paragraph should have a purpose / theme, and make a number of points – which need to be support by high quality evidence. Be clear why each point is is relevant to the argument. It would be useful at the beginning of each paragraph if you explicitly outlined the theme being discussed (.e.g. cognitive development, social development etc.).

Try not to overuse quotations in your essays. It is more appropriate to use original content to demonstrate your understanding.

Psychology is a science so you must support your ideas with evidence (not your own personal opinion). If you are discussing a theory or research study make sure you cite the source of the information.

Note this is not the author of a textbook you have read – but the original source / author(s) of the theory or research study.

For example:

Bowlby (1951) claimed that mothering is almost useless if delayed until after two and a half to three years and, for most children, if delayed till after 12 months, i.e. there is a critical period.

Maslow (1943) stated that people are motivated to achieve certain needs. When one need is fulfilled a person seeks to fullfil the next one, and so on.

As a general rule, make sure there is at least one citation (i.e. name of psychologist and date of publication) in each paragraph.

Remember to answer the essay question. Underline the keywords in the essay title. Don’t make the mistake of simply writing everything you know of a particular topic, be selective. Each paragraph in your essay should contribute to answering the essay question.

Critical Evaluation

In simple terms, this means outlining the strengths and limitations of a theory or research study.

There are many ways you can critically evaluate:

Methodological evaluation of research

Is the study valid / reliable ? Is the sample biased, or can we generalize the findings to other populations? What are the strengths and limitations of the method used and data obtained?

Be careful to ensure that any methodological criticisms are justified and not trite.

Rather than hunting for weaknesses in every study; only highlight limitations that make you doubt the conclusions that the authors have drawn – e.g., where an alternative explanation might be equally likely because something hasn’t been adequately controlled.

Compare or contrast different theories

Outline how the theories are similar and how they differ. This could be two (or more) theories of personality / memory / child development etc. Also try to communicate the value of the theory / study.

Debates or perspectives

Refer to debates such as nature or nurture, reductionism vs. holism, or the perspectives in psychology . For example, would they agree or disagree with a theory or the findings of the study?

What are the ethical issues of the research?

Does a study involve ethical issues such as deception, privacy, psychological or physical harm?

Gender bias

If research is biased towards men or women it does not provide a clear view of the behavior that has been studied. A dominantly male perspective is known as an androcentric bias.

Cultural bias

Is the theory / study ethnocentric? Psychology is predominantly a white, Euro-American enterprise. In some texts, over 90% of studies have US participants, who are predominantly white and middle class.

Does the theory or study being discussed judge other cultures by Western standards?

Animal Research

This raises the issue of whether it’s morally and/or scientifically right to use animals. The main criterion is that benefits must outweigh costs. But benefits are almost always to humans and costs to animals.

Animal research also raises the issue of extrapolation. Can we generalize from studies on animals to humans as their anatomy & physiology is different from humans?

The PEC System

It is very important to elaborate on your evaluation. Don’t just write a shopping list of brief (one or two sentence) evaluation points.

Instead, make sure you expand on your points, remember, quality of evaluation is most important than quantity.

When you are writing an evaluation paragraph, use the PEC system.

• Make your P oint.
• E xplain how and why the point is relevant.
• Discuss the C onsequences / implications of the theory or study. Are they positive or negative?

For Example

• Point: It is argued that psychoanalytic therapy is only of benefit to an articulate, intelligent, affluent minority.
• Explain: Because psychoanalytic therapy involves talking and gaining insight, and is costly and time-consuming, it is argued that it is only of benefit to an articulate, intelligent, affluent minority. Evidence suggests psychoanalytic therapy works best if the client is motivated and has a positive attitude.
• Consequences: A depressed client’s apathy, flat emotional state, and lack of motivation limit the appropriateness of psychoanalytic therapy for depression.

Furthermore, the levels of dependency of depressed clients mean that transference is more likely to develop.

Using Research Studies in your Essays

Research studies can either be knowledge or evaluation.

• If you refer to the procedures and findings of a study, this shows knowledge and understanding.
• If you comment on what the studies shows, and what it supports and challenges about the theory in question, this shows evaluation.

Writing an Introduction

It is often best to write your introduction when you have finished the main body of the essay, so that you have a good understanding of the topic area.

If there is a word count for your essay try to devote 10% of this to your introduction.

Ideally, the introduction should;

Identify the subject of the essay and define the key terms. Highlight the major issues which “lie behind” the question. Let the reader know how you will focus your essay by identifying the main themes to be discussed. “Signpost” the essay’s key argument, (and, if possible, how this argument is structured).

Introductions are very important as first impressions count and they can create a h alo effect in the mind of the lecturer grading your essay. If you start off well then you are more likely to be forgiven for the odd mistake later one.

Writing a Conclusion

So many students either forget to write a conclusion or fail to give it the attention it deserves.

If there is a word count for your essay try to devote 10% of this to your conclusion.

Ideally the conclusion should summarize the key themes / arguments of your essay. State the take home message – don’t sit on the fence, instead weigh up the evidence presented in the essay and make a decision which side of the argument has more support.

Also, you might like to suggest what future research may need to be conducted and why (read the discussion section of journal articles for this).

Don”t include new information / arguments (only information discussed in the main body of the essay).

If you are unsure of what to write read the essay question and answer it in one paragraph.

Points that unite or embrace several themes can be used to great effect as part of your conclusion.

The Importance of Flow

Obviously, what you write is important, but how you communicate your ideas / arguments has a significant influence on your overall grade. Most students may have similar information / content in their essays, but the better students communicate this information concisely and articulately.

When you have finished the first draft of your essay you must check if it “flows”. This is an important feature of quality of communication (along with spelling and grammar).

This means that the paragraphs follow a logical order (like the chapters in a novel). Have a global structure with themes arranged in a way that allows for a logical sequence of ideas. You might want to rearrange (cut and paste) paragraphs to a different position in your essay if they don”t appear to fit in with the essay structure.

To improve the flow of your essay make sure the last sentence of one paragraph links to first sentence of the next paragraph. This will help the essay flow and make it easier to read.

Finally, only repeat citations when it is unclear which study / theory you are discussing. Repeating citations unnecessarily disrupts the flow of an essay.

Referencing

The reference section is the list of all the sources cited in the essay (in alphabetical order). It is not a bibliography (a list of the books you used).

In simple terms every time you cite/refer to a name (and date) of a psychologist you need to reference the original source of the information.

If you have been using textbooks this is easy as the references are usually at the back of the book and you can just copy them down. If you have been using websites, then you may have a problem as they might not provide a reference section for you to copy.

References need to be set out APA style :

Author, A. A. (year). Title of work . Location: Publisher.

Journal Articles

Author, A. A., Author, B. B., & Author, C. C. (year). Article title. Journal Title, volume number (issue number), page numbers

A simple way to write your reference section is use Google scholar . Just type the name and date of the psychologist in the search box and click on the “cite” link.

Next, copy and paste the APA reference into the reference section of your essay.

Once again, remember that references need to be in alphabetical order according to surname.

• Relationships

Why Psy? The Benefits of Studying Psychology

A psychology course may fill a prerequisite, improve relationships, and more..

Posted May 22, 2021 | Reviewed by Lybi Ma

• Why Education Is Important
• Find a Child Therapist

When I write about the reality of psychology and psychology-related degrees, I receive emails from students all over the world asking for guidance. Should they pursue a psychology degree? Should they go a different direction? Will they succeed? Help!

Given the anxiety these realities can cause, I thought I’d share some simple reasons to go for it when it comes to studying psychology. Whether it’s a degree or a few classes, psychology has countless benefits.

Why Psy? For school!

I can’t tell you how many students email me every semester, desperate to get into my closed courses because they neeeed a psychology course before they can start graduate school (as a prerequisite). Similarly, nursing students flood my courses, as they are required to take several psychology courses.

Psychology is a requirement for many degree programs, so even if you’re not required to take it in undergrad, you might be required to make up for not having taken it before graduate school. The more you know about and can complete requirements now, the less time you’ll spend catching up on prerequisites when you really want to start that graduate program.

When I worked with pediatric residents and medical students at UC San Diego, we often talked about their educational backgrounds. Sure, several were biology majors, as expected, but a number were psychology majors or double-majors. The reason? “It helped me get into med school.”

Having a degree, or any level of education , that indicates understanding people is very helpful for people-focused professions. That’s why nursing students are required to take it. Many graduate programs look favorably at candidates with psychology education, even some you might not expect. In fact, when it comes to medical school, residents with psychology (and related) backgrounds often told me, “Everyone had a biology degree. That’s boring . I got in because I was different. It helped.”

Why Psy? For Work

John Holland called professions like nursing and counseling “social professions.” These professions, in which you interact with people, benefit from the study of the human mind and behavior. Not only does it help you get into school, but it also helps you perform better. We’ve all had those doctors with absolutely no bedside manner. If those doctors took psychology, they weren’t paying attention (or didn’t care).

I used to get upset on behalf of my students from other countries who were practicing doctors made to repeat medical school here. Many of them took my psychology classes as prerequisites for U.S. medical education. While I still cannot imagine having to complete medical school twice, I do understand why many of them, who had never taken psychology, were required to do so.

Beyond medical professions and those we typically think of, like counseling and social work, psychology helps with almost any job. We all have coworkers, we all have to learn, many of us interact with the humans in some form… even when we’re not in “social professions.” Psychology covers a surprising number of topics, all of which apply to almost any type of employment. Personally, I think the most relevant, applicable lesson psychology teaches is how to understand others’ behavior; an understanding that often results in the life-changing realization, “Oh, that’s about them, not me.”

Why Psy? For Life

Many first-time psychology students enter class assuming they are going to learn how to diagnose people. Instead, they quickly find out that psychology is a lot more than that (and that psychology students are not qualified to diagnose people). Most fundamentally, psychology is a science. Students learn how to evaluate data, information, and claims. They learn how to think critically. I like to call it “critical consumption.” We get so many messages and so much information thrown at us daily; psychology helps us critically consume it all. Critical consumption is a valuable skill not just for daily life, but for school and work as well.

Of course, we can do the “it helps you understand people!” thing here too. Who doesn’t benefit from an understanding of the behaviors of your friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, pets , and self? And you don’t have to be a psychology major with a lot of classes under your belt to benefit from this knowledge; just ask the students in the introductory-level personality psychology course who discovered narcissism and wouldn’t let me change topics.

In my experience, very few students dislike psychology. Sure, some are disappointed with the salaries psychology-related jobs offer, some don’t like having long-held beliefs challenged, but all benefit from learning it. My advice? Try psychology. An introductory psychology course may fill a prerequisite you don’t yet know is in your future, improve your relationships, help you train your pet, you name it. It just might change your life.

Ashley Maier teaches psychology at Los Angeles Valley College.

• Find Counselling
• Find a Support Group
• Find Online Therapy
• United Kingdom
• Asperger's
• Bipolar Disorder
• Chronic Pain
• Eating Disorders
• Passive Aggression
• Personality
• Goal Setting
• Positive Psychology
• Stopping Smoking
• Low Sexual Desire
• Child Development
• Therapy Center NEW
• Diagnosis Dictionary
• Types of Therapy

Understanding what emotional intelligence looks like and the steps needed to improve it could light a path to a more emotionally adept world.

• Emotional Intelligence
• Gaslighting
• Affective Forecasting
• Neuroscience

Celebrating 150 years of Harvard Summer School. Learn about our history.

Why Choose Psychology as Your College Major

Choosing a psychology major can lead to many different pathways.

Pamela Reynolds

Psychology is one of the most popular college majors today. Here’s why it might be the right major for you.

If you’ve ever been curious why you—and those around you—act and think in seemingly inexplicable ways, you might consider majoring in psychology. 

Many people, it turns out, are doing just that. 

According to a Niche ranking , psychology was the third most popular major among college students in the classes of 2022 and 2023 . The share of college students majoring in psychology now hovers around 6 percent , up from 4 to 5 percent in the 1980s.

And it’s easy to understand what the attraction is. A psychology major offers students an opportunity to learn more about themselves and others on a very personal level. It can also lead to an array of interesting careers, sometimes in unexpected places. 

Let’s take a look at why students are choosing to study psychology, potential career paths for psychology majors, as well as what to expect if you choose this field as your major. You’re likely to be surprised by the choice that a degree in psychology can offer.

Why Should I Choose Psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behavior. There are several reasons why so many college students opt to major in psychology:

• There is great potential for personal growth , as you learn more about the factors that influence human behavior and development. On a personal level, you will gain insight into yourself, but will also better understand your family, friends, classmates, and people you interact with in everyday life.For this reason alone, many students are drawn to this subject. A good grasp of psychology can be useful in a variety of situations, whether it be in resolving a conflict you are having with a friend, negotiating a raise at your job, or persuading your parents to help fund that new car you’ve been wanting. 
• It can open up the door to many different types of careers. More than some other majors you might choose, a psychology degree can lead to many diverse career paths in sectors you may have never considered. You might decide to focus on psychology in a theoretical setting, as a researcher at a university, for example, or you might turn to applied research in a clinical or corporate setting. Other options include counseling, social work, human resources, marketing, workforce development, or education.

Specific career options range from advertising agent to career counselor, case manager, human resources specialist, lab assistant, market researcher, rehabilitation specialist, or youth counselor. Even if you choose a line of work that seems quite distant from the psychology field, chances are you will be able to put to use many of the concepts you learned as a psychology student.   

• A bachelor’s degree in psychology can lay the groundwork for graduate level study in psychology, education, law, medicine, and business. If you opt to continue your education, your career path widens even more. It’s a major that can be applied to multiple  fields, so your career options are wide-ranging.

What Would I Study as a Psychology Major?

Psychology programs usually include introductory courses such as:

• General psychology
• Research methods in psychology
• Statistical methods in psychology
• A lab course like psychology as a natural science

Foundational courses might include cognitive neuroscience, social psychology, developmental psychology, psychopathology, and the neurobiology of behavior. These introductory courses usually delve into the core types of psychology, the history of this field of study, and the relationship between the brain, behavior, and experience. 

Psychology lab courses , on the other hand, give students experience conducting research, designing experiments, learning observation and measurement techniques, and analyzing behavioral data.

Once you’ve met the prerequisite requirements in the major, you’re free to take more specific courses. Examples of potential psychology elective courses include:

• Developmental psychology
• Learning and behavior
• Social psychology
• Theories of personality
• Drugs and behavior
• Affective neuroscience
• Child psychology
• Introduction to clinical psychology 

Most schools offer course credit for independent research projects, too, although they often will require a certain GPA and approval of a student’s topic through the psychology department. Many schools will also require psychology students to take courses in math, social science, and physical science.

Is Psychology a Hard Major?

If you research this question, you’ll find a range of opinions on both sides of the question. 

On one hand, it might be considered “hard” because students are required, as with any subject, to do lots of reading and analysis. In particular, many students may have difficulty with subjects like advanced mathematics, statistics, and research methods . You will also be expected to conduct experiments.

On the other hand, a high level of interest in a subject can make it easier to focus on and learn. If a student is deeply interested in how humans relate both individually and in groups, the coursework, reading and experimentation may be easier to get through, even when it involves more difficult subjects in science or math. Psychology also easily allows you to contextualize concepts you learn to real-life, which may also help with learning material.

Explore Our Secondary School Program.

What Jobs Are Available With a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology?

If you pursue a bachelor’s degree in this field, you can qualify for jobs in the human or social services sector. Typical jobs for psychology majors include:

• Career counselor
• Childcare worker
• Psychiatric technician
• Lab assistant
• Rehabilitation specialist
• Case manager
• Human resources assistant
• Market researcher
• Substance abuse counselor
• Probation or parole officer
• Sales representative
• Social service specialist

Because many of these jobs are in social services, candidates will be required to evaluate the needs of clients, keep accurate records and express empathy and compassion. These roles can be challenging as they are not typically well paid, and it can be discouraging to work with people who have severe needs.

However, it should be noted that many people who graduate with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, never go on to apply their degree in the subject itself. 

Psychology majors develop a number of skills which can be applied to many other occupations, particularly because of the amount of writing and research required. This means that career paths for psychology majors are wide open.

About three quarters of students earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology never pursue a graduate degree in psychology. Only about a quarter of psychology undergraduates actually end up working in psychology or a related field. Even so, many find they can apply what they learned as an undergrad to their field of choice. 

Do You Need an Advanced Degree to Work in the Field of Psychology?

While you do not necessarily require an advanced psychology degree to find work, you will find your career options broaden, as well as the potential to earn more. 

With more education comes the opportunity to help people in more substantial ways than you might with only a bachelor’s degree. Not only can you help people overcome the effects of trauma or deal with a mental illness, but you can help make advances toward better treatments for diseases, disorders or illnesses that affect mental health or cognitive function.

Potential jobs with a master’s degree in the field include:

• Program managers
• School psychologists
• Adjunct faculty members
• Licensed clinical social workers
• Adjunct instructors
• Medical social workers
• Mental health professionals
• UX Designer
• Academic advisors

Those interested in becoming a psychologist or psychiatrist require more education. For example, a psychologist needs a PhD or PsyD , while a psychiatrist must earn a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

The Final Word

If you’re psyched about choosing psychology as a major, you probably already know why. You want to help others. Choosing a psychology major can potentially give you the tools to do exactly that. 

Interested in a summer at Harvard? Learn more about our summer programs.

Request Information

About the Author

Pamela Reynolds is a Boston-area feature writer and editor whose work appears in numerous publications. She is the author of “Revamp: A Memoir of Travel and Obsessive Renovation.”

Why College Professors Want You to Talk to Them

Talking with your professors is an important part of college. Here's why you should reach out—and why they want you to.

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.

• Entertainment
• Environment
• Information Science and Technology
• Social Issues

Home Essay Samples

Essay Samples on Psychology

The majority of college students who have to deal with essays about Psychology are not necessarily future specialists in Psychology or Healthcare. Just think about modern business studies or marketing where leadership qualities must be studied. The same relates to Criminology or Forensic Research assignments where the use of psychology becomes essential. It provides modern learners with a plethora of ideas that can be explored. If you are stuck and need inspiration, focus on the free psychology essay examples that we provide for you. The list of subjects that are presented ranges from the theorists to case study samples to help you understand the difference between various essay types. Remember that your introduction part will always depend on your target audience and the level of knowledge they have. It means that you should provide statistical data or study reports only to an extent that will be sufficient for your methodology or academic objectives. See how it has been done in the free samples that we offer by reading actual writing. These are only provided as templates that you should use for inspirational and educational purposes. As you compose your own Psychology essay, keep things unique and always provide relevant references.

Why Psychology Major: Understanding the Human Mind

Why psychology major? This question lies at the heart of my academic journey, drawing me toward a field that offers a profound exploration of the intricacies of human behavior, cognition, and emotions. The decision to major in psychology is driven by a deep curiosity about...

• Social Psychology

Why Psychology: Exploring the Fascinating Depths of the Human Mind

Why psychology? This simple yet profound question has intrigued many curious minds over the years, including mine. The allure of psychology lies in its ability to delve into the intricate complexities of human behavior, cognition, and emotions. As a field that bridges science and humanity,...

Why I Chose Psychology: Path to Understanding the Human Mind

Why I chose psychology as my field of study is a question rooted in my profound curiosity about the complexities of the human mind and behavior. From a young age, I found myself intrigued by the intricate web of thoughts, emotions, and motivations that shape...

Sports Psychology: Unleashing the Mental Edge in Athletic Performance

Sports psychology is a dynamic field that delves into the intricate relationship between the mind and athletic performance. It offers a comprehensive understanding of how psychological factors influence athletes' behaviors, attitudes, and outcomes in sports. By exploring the psychological aspects of sports, athletes and coaches...

The Social Learning Theory in Psychology

Social Learning Theory, a prominent psychological concept developed by Albert Bandura, offers valuable insights into how individuals acquire new behaviors and adapt their actions based on the observations of others. This theory emphasizes the significant role of social interactions, modeling, and reinforcement in shaping human...

Stressed out with your paper?

Consider using writing assistance:

• 100% unique papers
• 3 hrs deadline option

The Profound Contributions of Sigmund Freud to Psychology

Sigmund Freud, often referred to as the "father of psychoanalysis," has left an indelible mark on the field of psychology through his groundbreaking theories and revolutionary insights into the human mind. His contributions have reshaped the way we understand human behavior, unconscious processes, and the...

Psychological Depths of "Shutter Island"

Shutter Island is a psychological thriller that delves into the intricate workings of the human mind, presenting a captivating narrative interwoven with themes of identity, memory, and the blurred lines between reality and illusion. Directed by Martin Scorsese and based on Dennis Lehane's novel, the...

Exploring the Diverse Schools of Psychology

Schools of psychology represent distinct approaches and perspectives in understanding human behavior, cognition, and emotion. Each school offers a unique lens through which psychologists analyze and interpret psychological phenomena. This essay delves into the fascinating world of psychology by exploring some of the prominent schools...

Exploring the Depths of Psychology Research

Psychology research is an intricate journey into the complexities of the human mind and behavior. It is a realm of inquiry that spans from unraveling the mysteries of cognitive processes to understanding the intricacies of social interactions. This essay delves into the realm of psychology...

Psychology: Illuminating Perspectives in an Argumentative Discourse

Psychology is an ever-evolving realm that delves into the intricacies of the human mind, behavior, and emotions. As a discipline rooted in empirical investigation, it has sparked a myriad of debates and discussions that continue to shape our understanding of human nature. This essay embarks...

Exploring Personality Psychology: Unveiling the Complexities Within

Personality psychology delves into the intricate and multifaceted aspects that make each individual unique. It peels back the layers of behavior, cognition, and emotion to reveal the underlying traits, patterns, and characteristics that shape human identity. This essay embarks on a journey to uncover the...

A Passion for Psychology: Nurturing the Flames Within

Passion for psychology ignites a fervent curiosity about the complexities of the human mind and behavior. It is a driving force that propels individuals to unravel the mysteries of cognition, emotion, and the intricate dynamics that shape our thoughts and actions. This essay delves into...

The History of Abnormal Psychology: Unveiling the Layers of Time

History of abnormal psychology takes us on a journey through time, tracing the evolution of our understanding of psychological disorders and the diverse ways in which societies have interpreted and responded to them. This essay delves into the intricate tapestry of the past, uncovering the...

Health Psychology: Exploring the Nexus of Mind and Body

Health psychology stands as a vital branch of psychology that delves into the intricate relationship between psychological factors and physical well-being. This essay unravels the depths of health psychology, shedding light on its significance, applications, and the transformative power it holds in shaping our understanding...

Free Will vs. Determinism in Psychology: Navigating the Paradox

Free will vs. determinism in psychology encapsulates a profound debate that has intrigued philosophers, psychologists, and thinkers for centuries. This essay delves into the intricate interplay between these two contrasting concepts, exploring their implications, relevance, and the ways they shape our understanding of human behavior,...

Psychology in Everyday Life: Unveiling the Intricacies

About psychology in everyday life encompasses the fascinating study of human behavior, thoughts, and emotions that shape our interactions, decisions, and experiences. This essay dives into the depths of psychology's presence in our daily lives, shedding light on its significance, applications, and the transformative power...

Exploring the Essence of Counselling Psychology

Counselling psychology is a profound and transformative field that embodies the art of guiding individuals towards self-discovery, healing, and growth. This essay delves into the heart of counselling psychology, shedding light on its core principles, therapeutic techniques, and the profound impact it has on the...

A Reflective on Clinical Psychology

Clinical psychology is a realm that delves into the intricate landscapes of the human mind, offering both challenges and revelations. This reflective essay on clinical psychology invites a contemplative exploration of my personal journey, growth, and insights as I navigated the complexities of this field....

What Motivates Me as a Student

What motivates you as a student? This question delves into the driving forces that ignite my passion for learning and shape my academic journey. From the pursuit of knowledge to personal growth and future aspirations, my motivations are diverse and ever-evolving. This essay will explore...

What Does Resilience Mean to Me: a Lifelong Companion

What does resilience mean to you? Resilience, a quality often admired and aspired to, is a trait that holds significant meaning in my life. In this essay, I will delve into my personal understanding and interpretation of resilience, exploring its essence, its impact on my...

Unraveling Learning Processes: Exploring the Difference Between Classical and Operant Conditioning

Learning is a complex process that underlies our behaviors and responses to the environment. Classical conditioning and operant conditioning are two prominent theories that provide insights into how learning occurs. This essay delves into the fundamental difference between classical and operant conditioning, shedding light on...

• Classical Conditioning
• Operant Conditioning

Evolution of Childhood: Comparing Childhood Today to the Past

The concept of childhood has undergone significant transformation over time. Childhood today is vastly different from what it was in the past, shaped by changes in culture, technology, education, and societal norms. This essay explores the key differences and similarities of childhood today compared to...

Compare and Contrast Ananysis of Piaget and Vygotsky in Terms of Cognitive Development

Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky are two influential figures in the field of developmental psychology who have offered distinct theories on cognitive development. While their approaches share commonalities, they also diverge in fundamental ways. This compare and contrast essay delves into the key similarities and...

• Jean Piaget
• Lev Vygotsky Theory

Childhood and Adulthood: Compare And Contrast the Main Phases of Life

The transition from childhood to adulthood is a profound journey marked by significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes. Childhood and adulthood represent distinct phases of life, each with its own set of experiences, responsibilities, and perspectives. This compare and contrast essay explores the similarities and...

Analysis of Social Media Effects on Body Image

In today's digitally connected world, social media has become an integral part of our lives, influencing the way we communicate, share, and perceive ourselves. One of the prominent and concerning aspects of social media is its effects on body image. The relentless exposure to carefully...

• Effects of Social Media

Religion and Morality in Arthur Miller's "The Crucible"

Introduction Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” is a compelling critique of the dark and tangled web of society, politics, and morality. Set in 1692 during the Salem Witch Trials, this play serves as a vivid reflection of the oppressive nature of McCarthyism in the 1950s in...

• The Crucible

How to Overcome Procrastination by Making It Your Friend

How to overcome procrastination? Usually, human beings have a tendency to see procrastination as some component bad. They invent dozens of techniques how to give up procrastinating and extend their efficiency, forgetting about the reality that like many extraordinary psychological mechanisms, procrastination serves its own...

• Procrastination

How to Deal With Procrastination: My Experience

Procrastination is something I am almost certain that everyone experiences at some point in their university lives (or life in general), and for some of us, it happens on the daily. This can cause a bit of a tricky situation, where the inability to force...

• Personal Experience

Different Perspectives in Modern Psychology: an Overview

Psychology encompasses the scientific study of the mind and brain, exploring the intricacies of human cognition, emotion, and behavior. This essay provides an overview of the different perspectives in modern psychology, each offering unique insights into the functioning of the mind and its manifestations in...

• Cognitive Psychology
• Human Behavior
• Perspective

Cause and Effect of Procrastination Among College Students

Introduction Procrastination is an activity that most college students have gone through throughout their high school career. The meaning of procrastination is, as stated by Ferrari et al., 'derived from Latin verbs. 'Pro' refers to forward motion, and 'crastinus' refers to belonging to tomorrow' (qtd....

• College Students

Rising Above Negativity: A Journey in Music and Self-Belief

My Early Music Career Let me inform you about a time when I realized a life lesson. A couple of weeks ago, I started out producing music; I was once just starting as a producer, and I had no prior expertise in song theory. I...

• Life Lesson

Exploring Child Development: Observations and Developmental Theories

Introduction “Social psychology often looks at basic human need to fit in and calls this the normative social influence” (AtheneWins, 2011). There are many developmental theories and there is a relative overlapping among them. The knowledge of this theories is important in the nursing field...

• Child Behavior
• Childhood Development
• First Day of School

The Power Dynamics of Adolescent Marginality & Intergenerational Conflict

Abstract Adolescents are often seen as lazy and/or entitled by older generations. Typically, we can see this today in the baby boomer generation. In this paper I will be applying Sociological Theories to this stereotype, Intergenerational Conflict to be exact. Throughout the years older generations...

• Adolescence
• Critical Theory
• Sociological Theory

Common Childhood Illness: Treatments and Exclusion Periods

When working with young children, practitioners need to be aware of common childhood illnesses, the signs and symptoms and how to treat children when they become unwell. Common childhood illness includes a common cold, asthma, chickenpox, hand foot and mouth, meningitis, whopping cough, conjunctivitis, and...

The Existence of Genuine Altruism From Social Psychology Perspective

There are several social behaviours that humans exhibit some are negative and some are positive. Altruism is one of such social behaviours. What is altruism and is there anything like genuine altruism? This essay attempts to answer the question whether there is genuine altruism from...

The Psychological State of Ressentiment in the Genealogy of Morals

The psychological state Friedrich Nietzsche terms as ressentiment in the Genealogy of Morals, is a human condition attributed to a feeling produced when placed within a hostile environment. One which man is found powerless to alter through physical action. Those inflicted to this deprived orientation...

• Friedrich Nietzsche
• Philosophical Works

Nurturing Students for Life: The Power of Teachers as Role Models and the Integration of Learning Theories

​The most valuable thing that teachers can provide for a student is not only the pure knowledge but also ability to preparation for life. All teachers should be aware of their power on children and be a good role model for them even though it...

Assessing Adolescent Knowledge and Attitudes towards Reproductive Health

Reproductive health is the important component in the adolescent age, as the one which is in highly risk group to get different sexual and reproductive health problem. Reproductive health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being in all matters relating to the...

• Reproductive Health
• Sexual Health

Exploration of Psychodynamic and the Behavioural Learning Approaches

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind that influences our behaviour using professional practice. The word psychology comes from the Greek 'psyche' meaning mind, soul and spirit. Wilhelm Wundt opened the first psychological laboratory in Germany to investigate the mind through inspection and observation...

• Psychologists
• Sigmund Freud

Prosocial Intergroup Behavior in Norway: Study Review

Prosocial behavior is a universal concept observed on a world-wide basis through acts of donations, protests, petitions and other voluntary behaviors. Various factors may serve as motivations for why individuals choose to engage in prosocial behavior. The world in the 21st century is in a...

• Prosocial Behavior
• Volunteering

The Role of a Clinical Psychologist in Treating Problem Drinking: Examining Effective Therapeutic Approaches

Problem drinking is not necessarily alcoholism; alcoholism is, however, a form of problem drinking. For a problem drinker when they drink it can cause problems for them and those around them, but they are not necessarily physically dependent on alcohol. They may be able to...

• Job Description

The Relationship Between Prosocial Behaviour and Mimicry

People are naturally inclined to mimic. Mimicry has been observed across all cultures and ages in peculiar phenomena like contagious yawning or laughter. Chartrand and Bargh noted that people frequently imitate others’ posture and facial expressions unintentionally, and Bandura demonstrated the essential role of mimicry...

Reflective Learning: the Power of Self-Analysis and Personal Growth

A reflective essay is a unique form of essay writing where you examine an experience and reflect on your own self. Use strong evidence and explain the real or imaginary scene in an interesting manner. A reflective essay is a type of writing in which...

• Critical Reflection
• Self Reflection

Albert Bandura: Pioneering Contributions to Social Learning Theory

'Learning would be exceedingly laborious, not to mention hazardous, if people had to rely solely on the effects of their own actions to inform them what to do'. Albert Bandura was a Canadian born psychologist who identified The Social Learning theory in the 1960's. Psychology...

• Famous Person

Discussion on the Relationship Between Intelligence and Creativity

The relationship between intelligence and creativity has been subjected to research for many years. Unfortunately, there is yet no consensus on how these constructs are related. The connection between intelligence and creativity is that they are functions of the brain that handle data to determine...

• Intelligence

Cognitive Explanation of Schizophrenia: Implications of the Theory

Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It is a complex disorder that involves a wide range of symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking. The cognitive explanation of schizophrenia is revealed in this essay as one...

• Schizophrenia

What Is Emotional Intelligence: the Significance of Human Beings

Ever since I was a child I developed a great passion regarding human beings and their behaviour in all sorts of situations, no matter the context. I have always paid attention to the importance of emotions in day to day life, and I noticed in...

• Emotional Intelligence

Creative and Critical Thinking: Combining the Achievements of Thought

Creative, one word that can be interpreted in many ways whether in thoughts which is include ways of thinking and actions and also in verbal form. Critical, on the other side refers to the ability to analyse information objectively and make a reasoned judgment. It...

• Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking Skills and Their Importance Today

As rapid urbanization continues to dominate the world, humans are being exposed to brand new ideas that feeds their mind logistically as well as holistically. This phenomenon in turn opens an opportunity for us to gain knowledge in various subjects that equips us with an...

How Unrealistic Beauty Standards on Social Media Affect Girls

Teenagers are affected by social media everyday by posting pictures and worrying about what other people are thinking. According to Mahita Gajanan from 'The Guardian' did a study and asked girls about their self-esteem and experiences with social media. Most of the girls that were...

• Media Influence

How to Cope With Stress: Personality Types and Bible Verses

Since stress is an important contributing factor towards all kinds of diseases, knowing how to cope with it is a major key to good health. Therefore, it is important to learn the different methods that can be used in order to reduce stress or even...

• Stress Response

College Stress: How to Manage It and Keep It Under Your Control

Most likely the least refreshing type of stress is college stress. This is generally because of the way that grown-ups essentially observe a great deal of college understudies sitting on their backsides playing computer games and drinking, rather than seeing understudies who are experiencing strain...

• Academic Challenges

The Most Stressful Life Stage: Exploring Adolescence

Adolescence is the transitional period in human development between childhood and adulthood. It is also described as a period of rapid growth, where a person undergoes major changes in the physical, psychological and social domains. It is also important for the development of identity, as...

Nature vs Nurture: Is Identity Innate or Learned

Introduction The idea of being loved whether it be by family, significant other, or even by society, is one that we all strive for in our day-to-day lives, however, is this love we are trying to receive based on things we have lack of control...

• Individual Identity
• Nature Versus Nurture

Resilient and Resilience in Relation to Optimism and Well Being

When I started to learn positive psychology I had absolutly no idea what to expect from it, so I just thought that it will be some hippie practise about how to be happy all the time. Then we had our first lesson. We learned about...

Negative Effects of Technology on Child Development and Mental Health

Technology has rapidly grown throughout the world and has become the most reliable necessity in the world today. Tablets, cameras, laptops, smartphones, etc. devices have overtaken the human population. The world is surrounded by technology all around- at home, at school, at work, everywhere. On...

• Negative Impact of Technology

Being Resilient: The Features That Foster Resilience

Before this course, I had very little and superficial knowledge about resilience but now after studying this course in detail, I understand this concept much better. For me, resilience is the ability bounce back after adverse situations. In the video, Michael Chandler defines resilient individuals...

Negative Effects of Technology on Child Development

In our modern society, technology is everywhere, specifically digital technology, and nearly everyone has some form of device whether it is a smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, laptop, computer, television, or even smart tv. Our world is loaded with technology because in theory it is all supposed...

Procrastination and the Harmful Effects of It on Job Performance

Procrastination is when someone has a job or task to do, and they say “I will do it later.” If they put it off until later, in some cases, they can lose your job. If someone is a chef and they reply to your boss...

• Performance

Childhood Trauma and Its Negative Effects on the Child's Development

Complex childhood trauma is currently suffered by numerous students in Primary schools around the world. It usually commences in the early years of a child’s life, when they are exposed to pervasive and traumatic events causing severe impacts that will continue to disrupt a number...

Body Image and Mental Health: Impact of Social Media

Technology is quickly rising and upgrading every day and social media has become one of the most-used forms of technology. Social media such as Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat are digital platforms which allow users to upload and share their content with others and also make...

Body Image Pressure Among Young Adults and Adolescence

Body image and its notion of impressing other people through it has become like a general trend amongst the youth. They try to change their body figures, and their characters while trying to impress others. The majority of youths do matters to enhance how they...

Effects Of Growing Up With a Single Parent and How It Can Affect Your Life

Growing up in a single parent household can affect your life in many ways, a few examples includes how you view your relationships, how you carry yourself, and especially your future. Half of my existence I grew up in a single parent household and I...

• Single Parenting

Why Juveniles Should Not Be Tried As Adults

Furthermore, children that commit crimes are products of their environment in which they live. For example, when children constantly get sexually abused, it causes immense amounts of trauma and a false sense of love. Often a traumatic experience for all is an offense punishable by...

• Criminal Behavior

What Was The Environment In Which You Were Raised

I remember myself since I was three years old. I was a lively and inquisitive child. I had many friends and we spent a lot of time together. My parents were very busy at that moment, they were working and building our house. I spent...

Benefits and Importance Of Early Childhood Education

“If school is about learning, and learning starts at birth, then the idea that we expect Kindergarteners to meet their first teachers at age five is all wrong. There is increasing research being facilitated on early education with specific emphasis on the overall benefits it...

• Early Childhood Education
• Importance of Education

The Transition From Childhood To Adulthood

 As human beings, we start off as just a fetus in a mother's womb. However, as time passes, we evolve. Every human being goes through many different phases in life. We go from being babies and eventually we become adults. Each phase is unique and...

Causes and Treatment of Childhood Obesity

'He is just a kid, give him what he wants'. This is the phase that is mostly used by the parents in order to encourage their children from eating what they want as long as it will make them happy. However, the statistic has shown...

• Childhood Obesity
• Eating Disorders

Human Nature in the Lost TV Show: Are Humans Inherently Good or Evil

Throughout humanity, the nature of humankind has been questioned by philosophers, leading them to conclude whether humans are inherently good or evil. Thomas Hobbes, a British philosopher that lived in the 1600s, believes that humans are born selfish and greedy, which leads to violence and...

• Good and Evil
• Human Nature

The Benefits of Video Games Both for Children and Adults

Ever since the 1970s the video game industry has grown quite a lot in popularity and has become the largest market in the world. There have been a lot of changes to how video games are made not only in the different genres for people...

• Development
• Human Development
• Video Games

Why is Early Childhood Education Important

In this essay, I will discuss how strong value operates within the perspective of education and what are main concepts, design of theories from conforming perspective of education. This essay will show some theories which are pedagogy. My explanation will be reflected by nature and...

Problem Solving: Use of Math in Our Everyday Life

What I say about math is that I really don’t like it, but at the end of the day through high school math I have learned how to solve problems and not give up when I don’t fully understand something. I dislike math, but I do need it. The reason why I dislike math is that...

• Mathematics in Everyday Life
• Problem Solving

Why You Should Let Your Kid Play Football

It’s Friday night. Many parents and friends gather around to watch us in our first game of the year. The lights slowly begin to light up the field as we approach the 50-yard line, we toss the coin and the game begins. Down by 7...

• Child Development

Growing A Grit And Growth Mindset

In today's society, there is a belief that intelligence is tied to GPA. There is a stereotype about intelligence. It is the idea that you are either smart or not smart. You either understand it or you do not. What happens if you are between?...

• Personal Growth and Development

Effects Of Violent Video Gaming On Human Behavior

There are many various kinds of games and consoles within the world and vying worldwide. Video play has become a very common trade all over the world and has been growing exceptionally throughout the past twenty years. Gamers that are obsessed with online play are...

• Impact of Video Games
• Violence in Video Games

Why I Want To Be A Teacher: It Isn’t Just A Career, But It's A Calling

Being a teacher isn’t just a career, having the ability to enable a child to further make sense of the world around them and become a honourable and respectful member of society, gives me such a profound sense of pride and happiness. I want to...

• Teaching Philosophy

Bilingual Education In Childhood For Effective Social Communication And Development

Today’s society places a heavy emphasis on the importance of being an effective social communicator, whether it be through verbal or non-verbal skills. Presently, more than half of the world’s population is multilingual and an increasingly larger number of people have been exposed to another...

• Bilingualism
• Educational Psychology

Importance of Reflection and Learning From Past Incidents

To practice competently, reflection is important because it allows one to critically think about past or present events, evaluate situations and then use the knowledge obtained to act accordingly in future situations. All of which improves patient care and helps minimise bad practice in the...

Solution-Focused and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy

In this essay I would like to examine three approaches, Gestalt, Solution-focused therapy, and Cognitive Behaviour therapy and how I intend on using them within my practice as an integrative counsellor. In my previous essay I proposed how I would use the person centred, psychodynamic...

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Transition's Impact on a Child’s Mental Health

In this essay I will be discussing and outlining the issues of how the transition can have an impact on a child’s mental health, emotions and their overall academic performance. I will also be discussing how development and puberty can affect a child, as well...

• Child Psychology
• Growth Mindset

Emergency Management and Bystander Behavior Effect

This essay will compare and contrast two approaches to understanding bystander responses to emergencies. The approaches explored in the essay are the experiment approach and discourse analysis, each being explained in further detail later in the essay. Bystander behavior (effect) can be explained as the...

• Emergency Management
• The Bystander Effect

The Impact of Technology on Wealth, Aging, and Lifestyle

Wealth, lifestyle, aging populations, and technological advances are said to be having a major impact on the growth of healthcare demand. This essay considers the impact of each of these factors and discusses how successful the introduction of so called ‘sin-taxes‘ have been in changing...

Individual Differences and Differences in the Functioning of Brain

It is irrefutable that people differ considerably from one another, with this variability arising from a unique combination of hereditary, biological factors and lived environmental experiences. Comprising persistent individual factors differentiating individuals from one another to establish distinctiveness, individual differences (namely those of intelligence and...

• Human Brain

An Essay Concerning Human Understanding byJohn Locke

Psychology was derived from two other disciplines; physiology, the study of how living things work, and philosophy, the theories behind why living things behave the way they do. Philosophy and physiology are intertwined, in that they both have contributed to the study of the other....

The Role of Personal Development Planning Today

The essay deals with the PKSC module experiences that reflect on the academic study. Here, the different lectures are guided regarding the reflection that ensure the personal development. The other skills are mentioned research skills, digital skills, reading skills and MS office skills. Besides, the...

• Personal Development Planning
• Personal Goals

Psychosexual Development Theory and Child’s Personality

In this essay I am going to examine the age group of children 0-5 and how the psychological experience can impact on their transitions, during their life span. To achieve this task, I am going to analyze different theories in relation to all holistic aspects...

• Homosexuality

Influence of Two Key Learning and Development Theories

This essay will discuss the applications and influence of two key learning and development theories to educational practice and policy. The aim is of this essay is to discuss two key development theories to educational practices. The two key theories are 1. Piaget and his...

• Developmental Psychology
• Learning Styles
• Study Skills

Social Phenomena of Individual and External Circumstances in a Society

In todays society scholars all across the world have conflict in the matter which talks about how race and an individual’s identity shapes how we all live our lives. We can all come to a conclusion where we agree that everyone from individuals to a...

Optimism: Perception of Life is a Matter of Perspective

Our perception of life is a matter of perspective. From a young age we are taught to see the glass as half-empty or half-full. This perception is a simple example of optimistic or pessimistic behavior. Optimism is typically viewed as an individual’s ability to see...

• Positive Psychology

The Move “Better Luck Tomorrow” by Justine Lin

The move, illustrates an image hidden behind well-mannered students of Sunny Hills high schools who are trying hard to over achieve. The main characters Ben and Virgil is showed as those over achievers of high schools who are known for their grades and extracurricular activities....

• Social Movement

Swimming as a Hard Skill Necessary for Human Being

Swimming is hard. For non-swimmers swimming is harder than most realise and not easy to take up as a regular sport. All those good swimmers you see have excellent cardio-respiratory fitness and often years of technique training. So don't be discouraged. And... The first step...

The Benefits of Online Dating to Society

“There’s the old saying that you have to kiss a lot of frogs to find a prince”, and I think that really applies to online dating. The growing popularity of online dating sites is significantly remarkable. The dramatic increase in Internet usage, indeed, has spread...

• Online Dating

How Peer Pressure Push an Adolescent to Be a Part of Peer Group

The theoretical framework which is for the complete dissertation inquiry, serves as the guide on which to build and help the study, consists of the selected concept (or theories) that under-builds researcher’s thinking with regards to how they apprehend and design to lookup the topic....

• Peer Pressure

Puberty as The Major Fascinating Transition Throughout Lifespan

A biological process that marks the transition from childhood to adolescence is Puberty. “Puberty is a period of the life span marked by major psychological, endocrine and physical changes that contribute to the metamorphosis of children into reproductively mature adolescents.” Puberty is when your body...

A Deviant Behavior of the Filipino Using the Merton’s Strain

An American Sociologist named Robert K. Merton was born on July 4, 1910 in Philadelphia. This American sociologist developed the Merton’s Strain Theory of Deviance which explains the rising crime rates expression in the United Stated of America (USA) at that time. This theory states...

• Deviant Behavior

Human Behavior on the Example of the History and Culture of the United States of America

 The United States of America is a unique country indeed. Unique, powerful, modern, advanced in so many arenas. Compared to other countries of similar size and population, America easily overshadows in technological advances, education and legal systems. However, because our great nation is relatively young...

• American History

Adult Education and ITS Philosophies

Before pursuing courses on adult education, it had been a while since I had contemplated on educational philosophies and what my actual style might entailed. When assigned this task, I assumed it would be easy to determine, ‘right?’ not so much, given the fact that...

• Adult Education Program

The Concept of a Passive and Active Bystander Effect

Groups willingness to help others can be affected in many ways one specifically being the bystander effect. The bystander effect is the tendency for people be unresponsive in high pressure situations due to the presence of other people (Darley & Latane, 1968). There are two...

Review the Different Hypnotherapy Techniques for Phobias 

This essay will look at what stress and anxiety are and how that can challenge diagnosis and impact treatment. before going on to other limitations of treatment. I will address phobias; the difference between fears and phobia and how that impacts on choices of treatment...

The Expectations of the Stroop Effect

The Stroop effect is an experimental design that analyzes our automatic responses when observing incongruent stimuli. In this study, a short experimental naming test will be performed with both neutral and interference conditions. A picture of fruit was displayed on a screen with either an...

• Stroop Effect

Best topics on Psychology

1. Why Psychology Major: Understanding the Human Mind

2. Why Psychology: Exploring the Fascinating Depths of the Human Mind

3. Why I Chose Psychology: Path to Understanding the Human Mind

4. Sports Psychology: Unleashing the Mental Edge in Athletic Performance

5. The Social Learning Theory in Psychology

6. The Profound Contributions of Sigmund Freud to Psychology

7. Psychological Depths of “Shutter Island”

8. Exploring the Diverse Schools of Psychology

9. Exploring the Depths of Psychology Research

10. Psychology: Illuminating Perspectives in an Argumentative Discourse

11. Exploring Personality Psychology: Unveiling the Complexities Within

12. A Passion for Psychology: Nurturing the Flames Within

13. The History of Abnormal Psychology: Unveiling the Layers of Time

14. Health Psychology: Exploring the Nexus of Mind and Body

15. Free Will vs. Determinism in Psychology: Navigating the Paradox

• Confirmation Bias

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

Psychology Essay Topics

Get Inspired with Over 200 Psychology Essay Topics and Writing Tips

14 min read

Published on: May 2, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

Share this article

Are you struggling to come up with interesting and unique psychology essay topics? Do you find it challenging to write a compelling psychology essay that stands out from the rest?

Psychology is a fascinating subject. However, selecting a topic that is both engaging and informative can be a daunting task.

But fear not!

This blog provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of psychology essay topics. From general psychology topics to specific and interesting areas of research, we have got you covered. Additionally, we offer tips to help you write a successful essay, from choosing a topic to editing your final draft.

By the end of it, you will be able to write a standout psychology essay that fully showcases your understanding.

Let's dive in!

On This Page On This Page -->

Psychology Research Topics For High School Students

Here is a persuasive essay topics list to get you started:

• The influence of social media on mental health
• The psychology of dreams and their interpretations
• Effects of stress on academic performance
• Does childhood trauma impact mental health in adulthood, and if so, how?
• How does meditation impact the brain and promote well-being?
• Why do we make the choices we do, and how can we make better decisions?
• How does spending time in nature impact mental health and well-being?
• How does perception affect our interpretation of reality, and can it be changed
• The power of music on human emotions and behavior
• The relationship between exercise and mental health

 Psychology Paper Topics For College Students

• The psychology of addiction and effective treatments.
• The impact of childhood experiences on adult mental health.
• The psychology of prejudice and how to overcome biases.
• The role of emotions in decision-making and behavior.
• The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function and well-being.
• Effective leadership traits and development.
• The psychology of procrastination: Why we do it and how to overcome it.
• The impact of social support on mental health.
• The effects of mindfulness on stress and anxiety.
• The psychology of motivation: What drives our behavior and how to stay motivated.

Research Topics In Psychology For University Students

• The effects of social media on self-esteem and body image.
• The impact of childhood trauma on brain development and function.
• The psychology of happiness: What makes us happy and how can we cultivate it?
• The role of genetics in mental health disorders and treatment implications.
• How does social media affect self-esteem and body image?
• What is the impact of childhood trauma on brain development and function?
• What makes us happy and how can we cultivate happiness?
• The psychology of mindfulness: Benefits and applications for well-being.
• The impact of cultural differences on cognitive processes and behavior.
• What are the dynamics of attraction, attachment, and relationships in the psychology of love?

Social Psychology Essay Topics

• How do social roles and expectations affect behavior?
• What is the role of social identity in intergroup relations?
• How do attitudes and persuasion shape behavior?
• What are the psychological factors that influence conformity?
• What is the impact of social comparison on self-esteem?
• The influence of culture on social behavior
• The role of empathy in social interactions
• The impact of social exclusion on mental health
• The effects of social comparison on body image
• The psychology of altruism and helping behavior

Forensic Psychology Essay Topics

• How can forensic psychology contribute to criminal profiling?
• What is the impact of psychological factors on criminal behavior?
• How do juries make decisions in criminal cases, and what role does psychology play?
• What is the impact of false confessions on the criminal justice system?
• How can forensic psychologists help prevent and treat juvenile delinquency?
• The psychology of criminal behavior and decision-making
• The use of psychological assessment in criminal trials
• The role of media in shaping public perceptions of crime
• The impact of trauma on criminal behavior
• The psychology of witness testimony

Criminal Psychology Essay Topics

• How do psychological factors contribute to the development of criminal behavior?
• What is the impact of childhood experiences on criminal behavior?
• How can criminal psychology contribute to the prevention and treatment of criminal behavior?
• What is the relationship between mental health and criminal behavior?
• How can criminal profiling be used to aid criminal investigations?
• The psychology of white-collar crime
• The use of forensic psychology in criminal investigations
• The impact of incarceration on mental health
• The effectiveness of rehabilitation programs for offenders
• The psychology of recidivism

Cognitive Psychology Essay Topics

• How do cognitive processes shape our perceptions and decisions?
• What are the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive processes such as attention and memory?
• How do emotions and motivation affect cognitive processing?
• What is the relationship between language and thought?
• What is the impact of cognitive biases on decision-making?
• The role of cognitive development in learning and education
• The impact of technology on cognitive processing
• The psychology of creativity and problem-solving
• The effects of sleep on cognitive function
• The psychology of expertise and skill acquisition

Developmental Psychology Essay Topics

• How do genetics and the environment interact to shape development?
• What are the stages of cognitive and emotional development in childhood and adolescence?
• What is the impact of parenting styles on child development?
• How do cultural differences impact child development?
• What are the effects of early adversity on later development?
• The psychology of attachment and bonding
• The impact of technology on child development
• The effects of divorce and separation on child development
• The psychology of adolescent identity development
• The role of play in child development

Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

• The impact of childhood trauma on the development of dissociative disorders
• The role of genetics in the development of schizophrenia
• The link between eating disorders and body image dissatisfaction
• The impact of addiction on mental health
• The effectiveness of psychotherapy for treating personality disorders
• The relationship between anxiety and depression in bipolar disorder
• The impact of trauma on the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder
• The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating phobias
• The impact of culture on the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness
• The effectiveness of mindfulness-based therapies for treating anxiety and depression

Child Psychology Essay Topics

• The impact of attachment styles on child development
• The role of play therapy in treating childhood trauma
• The impact of parenting styles on adolescent mental health
• The role of technology in children's social and emotional development
• The impact of peer relationships on child development
• The effectiveness of early intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder
• The impact of divorce on child development
• The role of schools in supporting children's mental health
• The impact of childhood bullying on mental health in adolescence and adulthood
• The effectiveness of family therapy in treating childhood anxiety and depression

Sports Psychology Essay Topics

• The role of mental toughness in athletic performance
• The impact of anxiety on sports performance
• The relationship between goal setting and athletic success
• The impact of visualization techniques on sports performance
• The role of self-talk in athletic performance
• The impact of team cohesion on athletic performance
• The relationship between personality traits and sports performance
• The impact of pre-performance routines on sports performance
• The role of coaching in supporting athletes' mental health
• The effectiveness of psychological skills training in improving athletic performance

Argumentative Psychology essay topics

• Is intelligence innate or acquired?
• Should psychotherapy be used as a first-line treatment for mental illness?
• Is the use of medication in treating mental illness over-prescribed?
• Is social media use linked to increased rates of anxiety and depression?
• Is addiction a disease or a choice?
• Should personality disorders be treated differently than other mental illnesses?
• Is the use of restraints ethical in mental health treatment?
• Is it ethical to use animals in psychological research?
• Should parents be held responsible for their children's mental health?
• Is there a link between childhood trauma and criminal behavior?

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Descriptive Psychology Essay Topics

• The history and evolution of psychoanalytic theory
• The role of culture in shaping our understanding of mental illness
• The impact of attachment theory on contemporary psychology
• The development of cognitive psychology as a discipline
• The role of social psychology in understanding human behavior
• The impact of behaviorism on modern psychology
• The role of neuroscience in understanding mental illness
• The development of positive psychology as a field
• The impact of feminist psychology on contemporary practice
• The role of evolutionary psychology in understanding human behavior

Biological Psychology Essay Topics

• The role of genetics in addiction and substance abuse
• The impact of hormonal changes on mood disorders
• Neural mechanisms underlying decision making
• The effect of sleep deprivation on brain function
• The link between brain development and mental health disorders
• The role of neurotransmitters in regulating emotions and behavior
• The impact of stress on the immune system
• The relationship between diet and brain function
• The biological basis of schizophrenia
• The role of epigenetics in mental health disorders

Controversial Psychology Essay Topics

• The Ethics of using placebos in clinical trials
• The Validity of repressed memories in Therapy
• The controversy surrounding conversion therapy
• The debate over the existence of multiple personality disorder
• The controversy surrounding the use of medication to treat ADHD
• The ethics of using animals in psychological research
• The controversy surrounding the validity of personality tests
• The debate over the use of cognitive enhancement drugs
• The controversy surrounding the diagnosis of borderline personality disorder
• The debate over the use of hypnosis in therapy

Cultural Psychology Essay Topics

• The impact of cultural values on mental health treatment
• Cross-cultural differences in emotion regulation
• The role of cultural norms in shaping attitudes towards mental health disorders
• The impact of acculturation on mental health
• The role of cultural values in shaping parenting styles
• Cross-cultural differences in attachment styles
• The influence of culture on body image and eating disorders
• The impact of cultural values on the experience of depression
• The role of culture in shaping perceptions of happiness
• The impact of cultural diversity on group dynamics

Good Psychology Essay Topics

• The importance of social support for mental health
• The benefits of mindfulness meditation for stress reduction
• The role of exercise in improving mental health
• The impact of gratitude on well-being
• The role of humor in coping with stress
• The benefits of nature exposure for mental health
• The impact of social media on mental health and well-being
• The benefits of expressive writing for emotional processing
• The role of positive self-talk in building resilience
• The impact of volunteering on mental health and well-being

Exciting Psychology Essay Topics

• The psychology of thrill-seeking behavior
• The impact of virtual reality on behavior and cognition
• The relationship between music and mood
• The psychology of conspiracy theories
• The impact of social comparison on self-esteem
• The psychology of persuasion and influence
• The role of culture in shaping perceptions of beauty
• The psychology of color and its effects on behavior
• The impact of humor on creativity and problem-solving
• The psychology of flow and peak performance

Psychology Essay Topics on Dreams

• Why do we dream? The scientific and psychological explanations.
• Can we control our dreams? The effectiveness and limitations of lucid dreaming.
• The interpretation of dreams: Freudian theory vs. modern approaches.
• The role of dreams in problem-solving and creativity.
• How dreams impact our mental health and well-being.
• The use of dream analysis in therapy: Benefits and limitations.
• Nightmares: Causes, effects, and treatments.
• The cultural significance of dreams and dream interpretation.
• Sleep disorders and their impact on dreaming.
• The ethical considerations of using dream manipulation for personal gain.

Psychology-Related Topics from Other Subjects

• The intersection of psychology and neuroscience
• The relationship between psychology and economics
• The psychology of decision making in politics
• The psychology of leadership and organizational behavior
• The impact of technology on social psychology
• The psychology of marketing and consumer behavior
• The relationship between psychology and law
• The psychology of education and learning
• The impact of environmental factors on behavior
• The psychology of creativity and innovation

 Psychology Paper Topics for Any Assignment

• The influence of video games on cognitive development
• A case study analysis of borderline personality disorder
• The role of cognitive psychology in treating depression
• Historical perspectives on the evolution of cognitive psychology
• Analyzing the impact of social media on mental health
• An exploration of the psychology behind addiction
• A comparative analysis of Freudian and Jungian theories of personality
• Investigating the effects of mindfulness on anxiety disorders
• The role of positive psychology in promoting well-being
• A case study on the effects of childhood trauma on adult mental health
• Examining the link between physical health and mental health
• An overview of various psychological disorders and their treatment options
• The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety
• Analyzing the use of art therapy in treating mental health disorders
• The impact of culture on mental health and well-being

How To Choose A Psychology Topic?

Choosing a psychology topic can seem daunting, but there are some helpful steps you can take to make the process easier. 

Here are some tips to consider:

Identify Your Interests

Start by considering what topics in psychology interest you the most. Are you fascinated by abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, or social psychology? 

By choosing a topic that you are interested in, you are more likely to be motivated to research and write about it.

Consider The Assignment Requirements

If you are choosing a topic for a specific assignment, make sure to read the instructions and guidelines carefully. Consider the length of the assignment, the required sources, and any other specific instructions that the professor may have provided.

Do Some Preliminary Research

Once you have identified your interests and considered the assignment requirements, start doing some preliminary research. Look for articles, books, and other resources on your topic to get a sense of what has already been written about it and to help refine your focus.

Narrow Down Your Topic

After doing some preliminary research, you may need to narrow down your topic. Try to focus on a specific aspect of the broader topic that you are interested in. This will help you to stay focused and write a more cohesive and effective paper.

By following these steps, you can choose a psychology topic that is interesting, manageable and meets the requirements of your assignment.

 Tips To Write a Compelling Psychology Essay

Writing a good psychology essay requires attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear writing. Here are some tips to help you write a great psychology essay:

• Understand The Essay Prompt

Make sure you fully understand the prompt before you start writing. Identify the key terms and concepts and make sure you have a clear understanding of what is being asked of you.

• Conduct Thorough Research

Conduct thorough research using reliable sources such as academic journals, books, and reputable websites. Be sure to take detailed notes and keep track of your sources.

• Organize Your Thoughts

Organize your thoughts and ideas before you start the writing process. Create an outline or a mind map to help you structure your essay and ensure your ideas flow logically.

• Use Clear, Concise Language

Use clear, concise language to convey your ideas. Avoid using jargon or technical terms unless necessary, and make sure your sentences are well-structured and easy to understand.

• Support Your Arguments

Use evidence to support your arguments and claims. This could include citing research studies or other sources to back up your points.

• Edit and Proofread

Edit and proofread your psychology research paper to eliminate errors and ensure your writing is polished and professional. Check for grammar and spelling mistakes, and make sure your formatting and referencing are consistent and accurate.

By following these tips, you can write a compelling psychology essay that effectively communicates your ideas and arguments.

In conclusion, choosing a psychology essay topic can be a daunting task. But with the right approach, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. 

Consider your interests, current events, and the audience when selecting a topic. Be sure to conduct thorough research and organize your ideas before writing. 

Additionally, keep in mind the tips for writing a compelling essay and crafting a strong thesis statement.

At CollegeEssay.org, we understand that any psychology course can be challenging, especially when you have to write an essay about it.

That's why we offer top essay writing service to help you score good grades.

Our essay writer meets all requirements and exceeds expectations. 

Visit CollegeEssay.org to learn more about our psychology essay writing service and how we can assist you in achieving academic success.

Betty P. (Literature)

Betty is a freelance writer and researcher. She has a Masters in literature and enjoys providing writing services to her clients. Betty is an avid reader and loves learning new things. She has provided writing services to clients from all academic levels and related academic fields.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Legal & Policies

• Privacy Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Terms of Use
• Refunds & Cancellations
• Our Writers
• Success Stories
• Our Guarantees
• Affiliate Program
• Referral Program
• AI Essay Writer

Disclaimer: All client orders are completed by our team of highly qualified human writers. The essays and papers provided by us are not to be used for submission but rather as learning models only.

University Students’ Psychological Well-Being Essay

Introduction, academic overload, new environment, poor habits.

About one-third of university students who study in the US is suffering from stress, anxiety, and depression (Novotney, 2014). The life of university students was always said to be different from the lives of children and adults, but the issue was never thought to be as crucial as it is now. Previously the years that people spent studying were considered to be the best period full of joy and entertainment but today the surveys show that their philological well-being worsened tremendously since the beginning of the 21st century (Chao, 2012). It is not a secret that university students can face lots of stress. Still, the fact that “more than 30 percent of those who seek services for mental health issues report that they have seriously considered attempting suicide at some point in their lives, up from about 24 percent in 2010” proves that the problem should receive more attention (Novotney, 2014, p. 36).

Of course, it is advantageous that the students have an opportunity to attend counseling when they have some related concerns, as they can receive help. However, it cannot be considered to be normal that almost half of them have the issues they are not able to cope with without the outer help. It is also critical that more than 30 percent of students take medication to manage their day-to-day activities. Considering the statistics that were mentioned, the significance of the problem cannot be denied. When deepening into the subject, many scientists and psychologists believe that the adverse effect on the students’ well-being is caused by the environment they live in and the schedule they have. Still, there are individuals who have another point of view. They underline that poor personal habits are more influential in this perspective. But while they are concerned about the negative impact of sleeping and eating habits on the students’ psychological well-being, the way full schedules and environment affect it should be considered, because overload, social and financial problems cannot be solved by the students’ wish.

Many students who have problems while studying report academic-related stressors to be the most critical causes of the issues they have. According to the research that was conducted by Deasy and colleagues, such factors as “exams (74.4%), assignments (71.0%), workload (67.9%), practice placements (36.7%), lectures (8.3%) and lecturers/teachers (6.6%)” worsen students’ mental health and make them refer to the counselor (Deasy et al., 2014). More than 40 percent of the participants complained of psychological distress, which made the professionals rather concerned, as it proves that these young people are likely to suffer from severe mental disorders that last for a long time. They underline that their future is under the threat and that universities should try to help them before it is too late.

Unfortunately, individuals who suffer from psychological distress are not willing to seek help, which leads to complications with the course of time. Many students find the tasks they receive in the university to be too complicated, which makes them frustrated and depressed, as they feel unable to solve them. Some students claim that they have a heavy workload that is full of unnecessary assessments. Different tests and examinations always put under pressure those who need to receive the highest points. They spend nights studying and do not rest enough, which affects their condition adversely. Excessive expectations from teachers and parents make young people work without breaks to finish all tasks in time and even do some additional assignments that allow them to score more points. These examples show that because of the academic overload, students yield to stress, and their psychological condition worsens.

When entering university, people find themselves placed in a new environment, which puts them under the pressure and makes anxiety due to the changes faced. The majority of students left their homes for the first time, which makes them learn how to cope with day-to-day activities without the help they used to receive from their nearest and dearest. Students are to get to know how they can successfully manage external and internal activities, which requires much time and effort. It is reported that the most frequent problems are related to “finances (51.7%), commuting to college (13.6%), being away from home (11.0%), sharing accommodation (7.2%) and making new friends (6.7%)” (Deasy et al., 2014). Due to the changes in society, people turn out to face problems when communicating with the individuals they do not know, which means that it is hard for them to make friends and receive support. Still, the main issue is claimed to be connected with finances, as students feel miserable and not able to cope with difficulties when they cannot afford the things they used to have at home (Ludban, 2015). To put it simply, the new environment puts students in a stressful situation, as it presupposes the existence of the issues that they have never faced before.

Even though many psychologists believe the factors connected with the university to be the causes of mental health problems experienced by the students, some of them are sure that one’s personal poor habits are more critical. Ozpolat, Isgor, and Sezer (2012) believe that lifestyle affects an individual’s well-being more than all other factors. Unhealthy eating habits may increase stress levels. For example, food that is full of caffeine and/or sugar makes people anxious. A habit of going to bed late makes individuals irritable, as students need to wake up early and do not have enough sleep. Still, many young people have such poor habits even before entering university, which means that their mental health is affected by additional factors that they have never experienced before. Thus, academic overload and the environment seem to be more critical than habits in this perspective.

Thus, it can be concluded that today’s university students often suffer from stress, anxiety, and depression mainly because of academic overload and a new environment. Some of them refer to the counselors and take medicines, but others never speak up, which proves that universities should search for the solution. According to the research conducted by Regehra, Glancyb, and Pittsc (2013), “cognitive, behavioral, and mindfulness interventions are effective in reducing stress in university students” (p. 1). To improve the situation when students’ mental health becomes worse with the course of time, which leads even to suicide, universities should create and maintain stress reduction programs for their students to receive needed help and support. Young people are the future of our world, why should they continue suffering?

Self-Evaluation

This assignment was rather difficult because the academic works related to the same issue but discussing it in different perspectives was to be found. This paper is well-structured; it meets all requirements and deserves the best mark even though it could be more in-depth. It was written with help from peers (evaluation and proofreading).

Chao, R. (2012). Managing perceived stress among college students: The roles of social support and dysfunctional coping. Journal of College Counseling, 15 (1), 5-21.

Deasy,C., Coughlan, B., Pironom, J., Jourdan, D., & Mannix-McNamara, P. (2014). Psychological distress and coping amongst higher education students. PLoS One, 9 (12), 1-23.

Ludban, M. (2015). Psychological well-being . Web.

Novotney, A. (2014). Students under pressure. Monitor on Psychology, 45 (8), 36.

Ozpolat, A., Isgor, I., & Sezer, F. (2012). Investigating psychological well-being of university students according to lifestyles. Social and Behavioral Sciences, 47 (1), 256-262.

Regehra, C., Glancyb, D., & Pittsc, A. (2013). Interventions to reduce stress in university students. Journal of Affective Disorders, 148 (1), 1–11.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2020, August 20). University Students' Psychological Well-Being. https://ivypanda.com/essays/university-students-psychological-well-being/

"University Students' Psychological Well-Being." IvyPanda , 20 Aug. 2020, ivypanda.com/essays/university-students-psychological-well-being/.

IvyPanda . (2020) 'University Students' Psychological Well-Being'. 20 August.

IvyPanda . 2020. "University Students' Psychological Well-Being." August 20, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/university-students-psychological-well-being/.

1. IvyPanda . "University Students' Psychological Well-Being." August 20, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/university-students-psychological-well-being/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "University Students' Psychological Well-Being." August 20, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/university-students-psychological-well-being/.

• Iron Overload Diagnosing and Treating
• Techniques to Combat Choice Overload
• Green Construction and Carbon Overload
• A Healthy Way To Cope With Stress
• Virtual Teams: Advantages and Disadvantages
• Issues of Data Management in Technology
• Stress: Definition and Different Types of Stress
• The Way Decision-Making During a Fire
• The College Students' Health Concerns
• Fluid Imbalance Effects on Gaseous Exchange
• Emotional Issues: Anxiety and Its Difficulties
• The Nature Versus Nurture Debate: Sociology Experience
• Identifying Psychopathic Fraudsters
• Cultural Bias and Diversity Attitudes in Education
• Cognitive Behavioural and Emotion-Focused Therapies

Presentations made painless

• Get Premium

105 Psychology Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Psychology is a fascinating subject that offers a wide range of topics for research and exploration. Whether you are a student looking for essay ideas or a psychologist looking for inspiration for your next study, there are endless possibilities in the field of psychology. Here are 105 psychology essay topic ideas and examples to get you started:

• The impact of social media on mental health
• The psychology of addiction and substance abuse
• The role of genetics in personality development
• The effects of childhood trauma on adult mental health
• The psychology of decision-making and problem-solving
• The relationship between stress and physical health
• The psychology of prejudice and discrimination
• The impact of technology on cognitive development
• The psychology of happiness and well-being
• The role of culture in shaping personality
• The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function
• The psychology of love and relationships
• The relationship between personality and career choice
• The psychology of motivation and goal-setting
• The impact of childhood attachment styles on adult relationships
• The psychology of eating disorders and body image
• The role of gender in shaping identity and behavior
• The effects of social isolation on mental health
• The psychology of phobias and anxiety disorders
• The relationship between personality and academic achievement
• The impact of mindfulness and meditation on mental health
• The psychology of memory and forgetting
• The role of emotions in decision-making
• The effects of music on mood and emotion
• The psychology of leadership and influence
• The relationship between personality and physical health
• The impact of exercise on mental health
• The psychology of creativity and innovation
• The effects of bullying on mental health
• The role of self-esteem in psychological well-being
• The psychology of forgiveness and reconciliation
• The relationship between personality and communication style
• The impact of social support on mental health
• The psychology of procrastination and time management
• The effects of trauma on memory and cognition
• The role of self-control in achieving goals
• The psychology of persuasion and advertising
• The relationship between personality and coping strategies
• The impact of social comparison on self-esteem
• The psychology of decision-making under uncertainty
• The effects of technology on attention and focus
• The role of empathy in building relationships
• The psychology of resilience and mental toughness
• The relationship between personality and risk-taking behavior
• The impact of social media on body image and self-esteem
• The psychology of group dynamics and teamwork
• The effects of trauma on brain development
• The role of mindfulness in stress management
• The psychology of addiction recovery and relapse prevention
• The relationship between personality and leadership style
• The impact of exercise on cognitive function
• The psychology of motivation and goal achievement
• The effects of sleep on memory consolidation
• The psychology of creativity and problem-solving
• The relationship between personality and job satisfaction
• The psychology of persuasion and influence
• The effects of social comparison on self-esteem

These are just a few examples of the many psychology essay topics that you can explore. Whether you are interested in cognitive psychology, social psychology, or clinical psychology, there is a wealth of research and information to delve into. So pick a topic that interests you, conduct some research, and start writing your next psychology essay!

Want to create a presentation now?

Instantly Create A Deck

Let PitchGrade do this for me

Hassle Free

We will create your text and designs for you. Sit back and relax while we do the work.

Explore More Content

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

© 2023 Pitchgrade

Essays About Psychology: Top 12 Examples and Prompts

Need a psychology research paper idea? Check out these provoking example essays about psychology to get your writing started.

Psychology is a broad field focusing on the mind and behavior. It’s also concerned with individuals’ consciousness and subconscious.  This branch of science has many subdivisions, such as developmental, social, forensic, and cognitive. Because it’s applicable in various fields, psychology is one of the most popular college courses in the US . 

If you are studying psychology in college, the odds are high that you will need to complete an essay or research paper at some point in your education.  Consider these twelve essay examples and eighteen prompts to get inspired and start writing your essay. 

For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers .

12 Example Essays About Psychology

1. the epidemic of mental illness: why by marcia angell, 2. is the internet making us crazy what the new research says by tony dukoupil, 3. the dark psychology of social networks by jonathan haidt and tobias rose-stockwell, 4. the benjamin franklin effect by david mcraney, 5. caring for your introvert by jonathan rauch, 6. the stanford prison experiment by dr. saul mcleod, 7. why your brain is not a computer by matthew cobb, 8. introduction to psychology by seema r, 9. meaning and definition of industrial psychology by shreyas kammar, 10. do not let negative feelings destroy our lives by anonymous on papersowl, 11. psychology. health behavior change & reflection coursework by anonymous on ivypanda, 12. fields of psychology by seema r, essay prompts about psychology, 1. what is antisocial personality disorder, and how is it treated, 2. the rise of schizophrenia or other serious mental disorders, 3. the role of media and video games in violent behavior, 4. the main factors that impact problem-solving abilities in child development, 5. can serious physical illnesses cause post-traumatic stress disorder, 6. the impact of parenting styles on human development, 7. what stops panic attacks effectively, 8. what is causing the rise in anorexia among children, 9. do teenagers face anxiety in high school, 10. how does low self-confidence hurt athletes, 11. my favorite branch of psychology, 12. psychological disorders: definitions and treatments, 13. how do religious beliefs affect someone’s behavior, 14. analyzation of a psychology theory or experiment, 15. the different careers in psychology, 16. do family relationships affect a child’s behavioral development, 17. effects of racism , 18. a historical figure in psychology.

“It seems that Americans are in the midst of a raging epidemic of mental illness, at least as judged by the increase in the numbers treated for it. The tally of those who are so disabled by mental disorders that they qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) increased nearly two and a half times between 1987 and 2007—from one in 184 Americans to one in seventy-six. The rise is even more startling for children—a thirty-five-fold increase in the same two decades.”

Angell describes the realities behind mental illness statistics. She then explores why problems like anxiety disorders, depression, and similar issues are rising. Finally, she proposes that they are possibly being diagnosed more frequently than before, more so than becoming more prevalent. You might find our list of books on psychology for beginners helpful.

“The first good, peer-reviewed research is emerging, and the picture is much gloomier than the trumpet blasts of Web utopians have allowed. The current incarnation of the Internet—portable, social, accelerated, and all-pervasive—may be making us not just dumber or lonelier but more depressed and anxious, prone to obsessive-compulsive and attention-deficit disorders, even outright psychotic. Our digitized minds can scan like those of drug addicts, and normal people are breaking down in sad and seemingly new ways.”

In this essay, Dukoupil points out the mental health concerns of constant exposure to social media and other technology. He explores new research into the abnormal psychology disorders this exposure is creating.

“The problem may not be connectivity itself but rather the way social media turns so much communication into a public performance. We often think of communication as a two-way street. Intimacy builds as partners take turns, laugh at each other’s jokes, and make reciprocal disclosures. What happens, though, when grandstands are erected along both sides of that street and then filled with friends, acquaintances, rivals, and strangers, all passing judgment and offering commentary?”

Social media has a dark side, which is what Haidt and Rose-Stockwell explore in this essay. What started as a positive way to build social connections has turned into a public facade that pushes people toward mental health issues. You might also be interested in these essays about sociology .

“The Misconception: You do nice things for the people you like and bad things to the people you hate. The Truth: You grow to like people for whom you do nice things and hate people you harm. Benjamin Franklin knew how to deal with haters.”

In this social psychology essay, McRaney explores how Benjamin Franklin’s people skills created a psychological phenomenon known as the Benjamin Franklin Effect. This theory says that a person who has done someone a favor is more likely to do that person another favor than they would be had they received a favor . McRaney delves into the psychology behind this theory.

“My name is Jonathan, and I am an introvert. Oh, for years I denied it. After all, I have good social skills. I am not morose or misanthropic. Usually. I am far from shy. I love long conversations that explore intimate thoughts or passionate interests. But at last I have self-identified and come out to my friends and colleagues. In doing so, I have found myself liberated from any number of damaging misconceptions and stereotypes. Now I am here to tell you what you need to know in order to respond sensitively and supportively to your own introverted family members, friends, and colleagues.”

Rauch, a self-proclaimed introvert, explores what it means to be one and how people can best care for one. After reading this article, you will be well-equipped for any social interaction involving an introvert.

“The study may also lack population validity as the sample comprised US male students. The study’s findings cannot be applied to female prisons or those from other countries. For example, America is an individualist culture (were people are generally less conforming) and the results may be different in collectivist cultures (such as Asian countries).”

This informative essay talks about the Stanford Prison Experiment and how it impacted the field of psychology as a whole. McLeod also provides some critical evaluation of the study and its findings.

“There are indeed theoretical approaches to brain function, including to the most mysterious thing the human brain can do – produce consciousness. But none of these frameworks are widely accepted, for none has yet passed the decisive test of experimental investigation. It is possible that repeated calls for more theory may be a pious hope. It can be argued that there is no possible single theory of brain function, not even in a worm, because a brain is not a single thing. (Scientists even find it difficult to come up with a precise definition of what a brain is.).”

In this essay, Cobb takes on the ideology that the brain is nothing more than a complex computer. He looks at the current research and draws an opinion on how much more complex the human brain is than simply calling it a computer.

“Psychology is relatively a young science and yet within a brief span it has made tremendous progress. Psychology touches almost every facet of our lives. There is hardly any single aspect of human life where psychology has not made its contribution.”

Unlike most psychology introductions with a direct description and definition, this short essay shows the importance of the subject. Seema R makes this possible by talking about essential industries where psychology makes a unique contribution and how psychologists define behavior. Seema’s findings include behavior is a physical and mental process that helps people adapt to different situations in their environment.

 “It is the study of people at work. It deals with the aptitudes, attitudes, and interests of the people at work… It studies the varied methods of performing manual operations for the better utilisation and the least waste of efforts through human engineering.”

This essay aims to understand the importance of industrial psychology in handling human relations in the workplace. Kammar begins the piece by sharing psychology’s exact meaning and follows it with other definitions from prominent industrial psychology textbook authors. The author then concludes that industrial psychology is research done in a company to create ways to improve industrial workers’ efficiency.

“The World Health Organization has said that depression is a common illness worldwide, with more than 300 million affected… Negative feelings are harmful to our mental health and take away the ability to enjoy our lives.”

The author’s purpose for writing the essay is to let everyone know what and how to deal with negative feelings. In addition, it is to prevent these feelings from worsening and turning into depression. To strengthen the credibility of the essay, the author uses statistics from the World Health Organization and a popular movie related to the topic, “ I Have a Black Dog ” by Will Hutchinson.

“Being mindful of my health habits also enabled me to cultivate self-monitoring techniques and, more importantly, to make health-enhancing behavior. This approach worked because the energy and determination of behavior change came from deep within my heart.”

The essay differs from the examples in this list as it’s from the author’s own experience and how psychology played a role in their journey to becoming a better person.  The author shares their drive to improve and maintain healthy behaviors for a better, more active, happier life. The essay starts with the author sharing the cause and effect of their unhealthy habits, what methods they used, and the struggles they faced along the way. The writer also identifies what helped them the most to achieve a positive change in their behavior.

“Psychology is no longer a subject of academic interest taught in colleges and universities, but its impact has been felt in business, industry, clinics, guidance centers, and education. Psychologists do many things depending on their field of specialization” 

Psychology is a vast field of behavioral study that shows constant growth and development in its subfields. The work and method that the psychologist will use depend on what field they belong to. To help readers better understand the difference between prominent fields of psychology, Seema R writes an informative essay that defines and differentiates each area of specialization of the subject. You might also be interested in our round-up of the best Carl Jung books .

If you are looking for psychology essay topics, here are some prompts for inspiration.

If you are looking for informative essay topic ideas, you could build an exciting essay around defining and exploring treatments for antisocial personality disorder. This disorder, sometimes called sociopathy, causes the individual to ignore the needs and feelings of others and show no remorse for doing wrong. Many serial killers have this disorder, one of the most damaging psychological disorders. Your essay could explore causes and treatments.

Are severe mental disorders, like schizophrenia, on the rise? First, research this topic and then build an essay around it. You will find that rates of this mental disorder are on the rise. After doing the research, determine why this increase might be happening. Then, explore ideas for treatment that might help combat the issue.

Do violent video games and movies cause violent behavior? Do they hurt the development of a child’s psychological well-being enough that the child can commit atrocious crimes? The APA warns that it is a risk factor for aggressive behavior. Answering these questions in your essay could address an important social issue while helping you craft a topical piece, as this type of media is an integral part of modern society.

What factors support children in becoming problem solvers and improve their critical thinking skills? Some research indicates that the school setting is primarily the most impactful. Still, you will also find some research that says parents and familial upbringing play a significant role. After researching, decide what you feel is the most crucial factor. Then, build your paper around that thesis as you prove your choice. You can also provide practical advice to help teachers and parents better teach problem-solving to the children they impact.

Many people think of PTSD as affecting people who have been to war or suffered a traumatic accident or incident, but some research has found that chronic illness can lead to PTSD symptoms . You could build an essay around this, discussing why this is and how doctors could better serve patients by understanding the connection. With an understanding of the link between PTSD and chronic illness, doctors may be able to help their patients not only recover from physical diseases but also the psychological effects of those illnesses.

Parents come in all shapes and sizes, and all have distinct parenting styles. Explore how different parenting techniques impact a child’s development. You can choose a selection of well-researched parenting styles and compare the outcomes with regard to child development. You may also choose to compare your findings to your own upbringing.

A panic attack can stop you in your tracks and make normal functioning impossible. Knowing how to stop a panic attack is vital to protecting the health and well-being of the individual. Explore various ideas for controlling a panic attack and helping someone achieve a positive mental state, such as deep breathing, meditation, or even taking a walk. Discuss why these tactics work and how someone can remember to use them during an attack.

Over half of all teenage girls and a third of adolescent boys have an eating disorder, and most suffer from anorexia. Explore what factors make teens more likely to try to control their weight in this unhealthy manner. Is it our growing dependence on social media and the perfect body image it portrays, or is it a change in our biological makeup? The statistics surrounding teen eating disorders are clear and established, but the cause is not. Consider using your essay to explore the potential causes of this serious issue.

High school is a challenging time for teenagers growing into adults and facing increasing academic pressure, which can result in anxiety. According to the National Institutes of Health , one out of three teenagers will suffer an anxiety disorder. This statistic shows that teenagers do, in fact, face anxiety in high school. Your essay could explore why this is true, include strategies teachers could use to reduce stress and comment on the overall impact of this anxiety on developing adolescents.

Sports psychology can be interesting to explore. In one study , researchers found that athletes’ physical prowess helped their athletic ability between 45% and 48%, while psychological health increased their ability by 79% to 85%. Based on statistics like this, create an essay that explores the impact of self-confidence on performance. 

Psychology has many branches. Choose what interests you the most and tell your readers why you find the field interesting. You can also include how the field’s lessons can be applied in everyday life. Always remember to have a good structure and do proper research to understand the topic and clearly explain it to your readers.

Personality, anxiety, PTSD, and depression are the most common psychological disorders many individuals experience. Writing an essay about these conditions is an excellent way to show how psychology helps people overcome their disorders. In using this prompt, add relevant information such as signs one is suffering from the condition or how to support someone with the illness. If you choose depression as a topic, see our guide on how to write essays about depression.

Beliefs have a significant impact on a person’s behavior. Use this prompt to give your perspective or share your experience on how an individual’s religious beliefs can affect how they think and shape the way they live. In addition, you can delve into the psychological impacts of religion and discuss whether it helps or hinders a person’s mental well-being.

Writing an essay about theories and experiments in psychology is challenging. For this prompt, you will not only choose a popular psychology theory to write about, such as “ Piaget’s Theory of Development ” or the “ Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral Development ,” but also experiments conducted worldwide to discover how the brain works and why psychological disorders exist. Consider commenting on how well the theory has been absorbed into our society and whether it remains credible.

Since psychology is a popular course, writing about different careers in psychology is an exciting topic. Include jobs such as a forensic psychologist, child psychologist, trauma counselor, or behavioral therapist. Use this prompt to write about a psychologist’s typical duties and responsibilities in a specific field. You can also add how much they earn and what other job opportunities become available through psychology. This topic can encourage your readers to pick a psychology career they want to pursue. 

Teenage pregnancy, rebellion, mental illness, and falling into bad habits are often the result of broken families and bad parenting. Use this prompt to show how vital a good family relationship is in a child’s development. You can add news, blogs, or interview someone willing to share their experiences to make your essay more credible.

Do you need topics on writing about family? Then, check out our 20 engaging essay topics about family.

Racism is a timely and controversial topic in social psychology. Use this prompt to show the effects of racism on an individual or country and add positive initiatives to reduce the violence it causes.

Essay writing tips : Add statistics and recent or popular news about racism to make your arguments reasonable and your essay credible.

Writing about a pertinent person in the history of psychology is one of the most straightforward but fascinating prompts. You should gather the person’s biography and professional history as well as their theories and influence on the subject. Consider famous individuals like Harry Harlow, Sigmund Freud, and other renowned psychologists of which the general public is already aware.

If you are interested in learning more, check out our essay writing tips!

How Positive Psychology Can Improve Student Success

An Illinois school district uses a program that encourages a positive outlook to boost academic performance.

How Positive Psychology Helps Students

Shawn Achor is perhaps best described as a happiness guru. He has published two best-selling books on the subject, "The Happiness Advantage" and "Big Potential," presented one of the most-viewed Ted Talks ever on the topic and, perhaps biggest of all, worked with Oprah Winfrey.

Achor's overarching view is that happiness and mental well-being aren’t just a nice way to go through life. “My research from 'The Happiness Advantage' and 'Big Potential' proves that happiness and mental well-being are precursors to greater success rates,” he says. More important, happiness isn’t preordained – people aren’t just born that way. “Happiness can be a choice if we apply daily habit change,” he believes. “And happiness is not ‘self-help’ – only an interconnected approach to happiness and success yield the highest rates of return on our investment.”

Achor has created the Orange Frog program to teach this approach to students and staff members at schools around the country. One such district is Schaumburg Township Elementary District 54, in the Chicago suburb of Schaumburg, Illinois. To kick off the 2016-17 school year, Achor hosted a Happiness Summit and presented workshops for all staff members that focused on positive psychology.

Achor believes positive psychology has many benefits:

• Lead to a happier , healthier and more engaged learning environment
• Foster student, family and community development
• Improve student success.

[See: 10 Concerns Parents Have About Their Kids' Health .]

With his scientific background, Achor strongly believes in measuring results. “Otherwise, we won’t learn what works,” he says. It appears that Orange Frog does indeed work. In the past three years, School District 54 went from the 73rd percentile of academic achievement in Illinois to the 95th percentile, he says. “They are in the top 2 percent of schools now nationwide. And SD54 is not an outlier. The work we did for the poorest school district in Iowa over a five-year period, the graduation rates rose to 91 percent, attendance to 95 percent. For the first time, kids are coming back from the rich counties to attend school in the poorest county in Iowa. Their literacy rates have the greatest percentage increase of any school in Iowa.” Now Achor is hoping to replicate those results in Flint, Michigan, and in economically challenged schools in Kentucky and Wisconsin.

A Unique Test Case

“I think it has turned out to be best decision I have made as superintendent of schools,” says Andrew DuRoss, Schaumburg Township Elementary School District 54 superintendent, about working with Achor. The large district, with about 16,000 students and 2,500 employees, has always considered the well-being of kids and staff, DuRoss says. In recent years, he noticed an increase in “stress and strain” in just about everyone. “There are a lot of things at play. The economic stress in our world, the hyper pace, where you never have time to take moment and think through things. I saw an increase in student depression and anxiety, in staff anxiety,” he says.

[Read: How Does Teaching Mental Health in Schools Benefit Students? ]

DuRoss was searching for a research-based way to approach this problem. When he read "The Happiness Advantage" three years ago, DuRoss found the missing piece to the puzzle. “I think what sets 'The Happiness Advantage' apart is the real, practical way (Achor) explains how we can be responsible for our own happiness and fuel our own success,” DuRoss says.

Achor was equally excited about the project. “SD54 was a unique place to test our research, as 35 percent of the students are on the free lunch program and (the district) cared not just about raising academic achievement but also improving social and emotional learning ability. If we could tie the two together, this would be a very powerful model for change within our school system,” he says.

In the Orange Frog program, students, parents and staff, from administrators to teachers, to custodians and bus drivers, are all encouraged to participate. “Happiness is not an individual sport,” Achor says. Students are instructed to record things they are grateful for each day , act out plays based upon the research, meditate for two minutes in the classroom and bring those lessons home to their families. Teachers attend learning groups that focus on connecting around positive content. Bus drivers write handwritten notes praising a strength in each of the kids that they drive. Parents attend the program's Parent University each semester, in which they come to the school in the evening and their children walk them through the positive habits they are learning .

Research Proves Happiness Is Key to Success

Achor says that a positive outlook is key to academic and emotional success. “Over two decades of research continually bears out the same conclusion: Happiness significantly raises memory, attention, productive energy, social connection, trust, intelligence, creativity, and shields against depression and anxiety ,” he says.

DuRoss says school should be about more than just the three R’s: reading, writing and arithmetic. “We are a lot more than reading and math. We are trying to help students, staff and parents navigate a complex world, to train them to become more resilient , to use stress and strain as an opportunity as opposed to something debilitating,” he says. “With a more resilient mindset, work is easier, life is easier. It’s a fact.”

[See: 10 of the Biggest Health Threats Facing Your Kids This School Year .]

Each school in the district includes a 30-minute emotional learning block in the weekly schedule. Every school has a “Happiness Team,” DuRoss says, composed of staff members who implement the various components of happiness training, like expressing gratitude, journaling, meditation and acts of kindness, as they see fit. Happiness, he says, “is now embedded into the curriculum of social emotional learning.”

Achor calls his work in school settings “the most meaningful work I’ve ever done. I was raised by a high school English teacher and a neuroscience professor, so this is near to my heart.” He notes the dramatic rise in the rates of depression and suicide for every age group, “including 8-year-olds. I have two children, and I know we can be doing better for them. We already have the research, we just need the foresight, resources and leaders to bring this research to life. SD54 is the proof superintendents and communities have needed to prove that small, positive interventions can not only improve emotional well-being, but that it then has a massive impact upon academic achievement.”

Tags: health , children's health , depression , elementary school , middle school , high school , mental health , parenting , teachers , Illinois

Most Popular

Patient Advice

health disclaimer »

Disclaimer and a note about your health », you may also like, time blindness adhd productivity tools.

Claire Wolters April 11, 2024

10 Ways to Calm Yourself Down

Stacey Colino April 10, 2024

Hot Yoga for Depression

Jake Panasevich April 4, 2024

Nervous Breakdowns: Signs and Symptoms

Heidi Godman and Paul Wynn April 1, 2024

Stress-Relieving Exercises

Stacey Colino March 12, 2024

What Is Bed Rotting?

Claire Wolters March 12, 2024

Ways to Cope With the Loss of a Pet

Vanessa Caceres March 8, 2024

Stress Symptoms You May Not Expect

Vanessa Caceres Feb. 23, 2024

Male Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Jake Panasevich Feb. 13, 2024

Why Kids Struggle to Make Friends

Christine Comizio Jan. 17, 2024

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Career Goals — The Importance of Mental Health: Why I Want to be a Psychologist

The Importance of Mental Health: Why I Want to Be a Psychologist

• Categories: Academic Interests Career Goals

About this sample

Words: 732 |

Published: Apr 2, 2020

Words: 732 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Works Cited:

• Carine McCandless. (1999). The Wild Truth. HarperOne.
• Krakauer, J. (1996). Into the Wild. Anchor Books.
• Krakauer, J. (2007). Into the Wild (Movie Tie-in Edition). Anchor Books.
• Krakauer, J. (2015). Missoula: Rape and the Justice System in a College Town. Anchor Books.
• Krakauer, J. (2019). Classic Krakauer: Essays on Wilderness and Risk. Anchor Books.
• Thoreau, H. D. (1854). Walden, Or Life In The Woods. Ticknor and Fields.
• Tolstoy, L. (1889). Family Happiness. Nordbok.
• Tolstoy, L. (2013). The Kingdom of God Is Within You. Dover Publications.
• Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. (2007). Into the Wild [Motion Picture].
• Woodworth, M. (Ed.). (2017). The Philosophy of John Krakauer. University Press of Kentucky.

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Verified writer

• Expert in: Education Life

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

3 pages / 1434 words

3 pages / 1579 words

2 pages / 964 words

8 pages / 3429 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Career Goals

My current plans for the future include an undergraduate major in neuroscience and then medical school. After that I would like to complete my residency in neurosurgery. A career in this profession or at least this general area [...]

It is my ambition to work in global institutions like United Nations, International law or in Regional alliances. Therefore, I am applying for the Masters of Political Science (Conflict Analysis and Management) at the Kent State [...]

The career plan that I have for my life consists of a range of elements. The first and most important is the career path that I have chosen to follow, which is a mixture of a marketing plan and working as an influencer [...]

I strongly agree with the statement above that people work more productively in teamwork than individually. For my part, through cooperation in teamwork, we can not only divide our work and emphasize specialization to achieve [...]

In 2016 Nursing Solutions estimated registered nurse (RN) turnover in the United States at 14.6%, down from previous year’s number of 17.2% (2). Nonetheless, we are experiencing an upward trend in turnover. According to Hunt, [...]

The degree in finance or business is a condition for getting jobs in the financial industry, but what if you don't acquire one , and really want to work in this field? While it is more difficult for someone with a non-financial [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

ORDER YOUR PAPER

15% off today

from a verified trusted writer

A Guide On Writing a Psychology Essay

The best way to deal with the "how to write an essay for psychology" question is to actually define a narrow area you would want to delve into and research. It is quite a fascinating paper for those students who major in psychology. Of course, you must carry out research before moving to the paper drafting phase. It is called an "essay," however, there can be some slight differences compared to other types of essays.

The most exciting part is that students who attend courses like abnormal psychology may be asked to write a paper on a scenario they once encountered or one that they can think of and recreate in detail. Often, it's better to try getting a thorough understanding of the essay requirements before diving into writing to avoid going off-point.

Psychology Essay Writing Guidelines

Before you sit to write a psychology essay, make sure you read the requirements and a question set thoroughly and understood what is required of you. If you can answer what's asked and required of you, you can start writing a draft. The easy way to gain the understanding is to identify and mark the keywords (such as evaluate, discuss, etc.) as they will guide and continuously remind you as you are writing.

As a student already studying psychology, you probably have knowledge on the subject, but it is essential to expand it through some journal articles, textbooks, news, the Internet, etc.

An essay on psychology presupposes carrying out substantial research on the topic. You should not just gather the relevant information: your task is to read it, assess it and critically evaluate the material to be able to use it in your essay. If psychology isn't your major, it's okay to consider it difficult enough to write an essay on this discipline. You didn't spend much time studying it, so it's essential for you to lack the understanding of the human mind, consciousness, and the way they work.

Essay On Psychology: Structure Guidelines

Whatever essay type you need to write, a standard or core structure should be used in your writing. It consists of the intro, body, and the final part - a conclusion. Following this structure is an excellent way to write a psychology essay: your reader will have a better understanding of your paper's main ideas and thoughts. In addition, it is an order the audience should follow when going through your writing. A five-paragraph structure is the most popular one, however, in this type of paper, you may have even more sections because everything depends on the number of arguments and points you are ready to provide.

Formatting Your Psychology Essay In APA

There are different styles that a student can choose to format the psychology paper. The format used for this type is called APA and is the one that most students should use.

• Introduction
• Theme 1~ point 1-3
• Theme 2~ point 4-5
• Theme 3~ point 6

If the essay is five pages or more, the APA format requires it to be divided into the following segments:

• The Abstract

The citation should, by all means, follow the set of rules as information that is wrongly referenced may lead to plagiarism and also result in marks lost. The student is to be careful in their writing, and also below are some things to note in APA text citation:

• The title of the source is to be in the capital.
• Use initials for the title in case the author's name is not provided.
• The initials and the name of the author should be capitalized.

If you are not paraphrasing, it is imperative to write the page number in quotes.

If you are not sure about getting this format correctly, do not go for the APA citation generators, as it will be substandard. Instead, it will be advisable to use the BestCustomWriting.com professional writers to check if your work is written accordingly to the required format.

Psychology Essay: Tips On Writing an Introduction

The introduction is the first paragraph of your paper, and its significance is huge. This section lets your readers understand what the paper is about. The task of the writer here is to summarize the background information and help the audience understand the value of the paper.

Remember that the end of your introduction should have a thesis statement - it's often considered the main sentence of the whole paper. It may be two to three sentences that are important to the audience, which will tell the main ideas of your paper.

It could be more meaningful to write the introduction after you finish the body because then you will have your main points clearly written. However, the choice is up to the writer.

Psychology Essay: Tackling Body Paragraphs

Every paragraph should be on a different concept or idea. You begin each by introducing an idea and then explain or develop it with some facts and examples. Remember that if you are actually telling the readers the information they haven't heard before, it shouldn't be your mere opinion but vivid evidence from your research.

The Secret of Crafting a Conclusion For Your Psychology Paper

The ideas and thoughts you mention in the main sections must be summarized in this final part. Note that the thesis statement should be paraphrased and restated to avoid repetition. The conclusion is more or less the same length as the introduction.

Good Psychology Essay Topics

Selecting the winning topic is extremely important because it allows you to maintain proper focus and comply with your professor's instructions. Let's take a look at some interesting ideas for psychology essay topics:

• Can a person suffering from depression take Prozac and avoid side effects?
• How does insomnia negatively affect the mental state of a human being?
• Why do children really need to play?
• Can a person's mental health issues be solved or improved by exercise?
• Is there any correlation between old age and decline in mental health?
• How can stress, which is not dealt with, affect a person's health?
• Explain the Bipolar disorder.
• How is work performance affected by depression?
• How do certain habits begin, and how can they be changed or stopped?
• Effect of violent films on children.
• The impact of abortion on females' mental health.
• What is the best way of assisting children after their parents' divorce?
• Are students having breakfast livelier than those who do not?
• How a minor got molested can have a lasting effect on their subsequent lives.
• Why do good girls fall for bad guys?
• Are stay-at-home mothers able to raise happier and more successful children?
• The psychological issues homeless people have to deal with.
• Effects of postpartum depression on the mother and child.
• The psychology behind long-lasting marriages.
• Obsession with fast foods.

Sometimes, researching a good topic can be even more frustrating than writing a psychology paper itself, especially if you're dealing with a multifaceted discipline like psychology. Students need to decide which psychology branch they would like to focus on, and it's very easy for them to lose their bearings in such a diverse environment. They should invest a lot of time and effort into researching so they don't have any difficulty organizing and structuring information in their research topic. Please, keep in mind that writing a research paper also requires students to do a lot of reading and carry out extensive fieldwork.

Our TOP writers

Master's in Project Management, PMP, Six Sigma

945 written pages

291 a+ papers

My Master’s degree and comprehensive writing experience allow me to complete any order fast and hit the nail on the head every time.

MBA, PMP, ITIL

9006 written pages

802 a+ papers

I am experienced writer with an MBA, PMP, ITIL, that consistently delivers unique, quality papers. I take pride in my experience and quickness.

MS in Human Resource Management

4792 written pages

546 a+ papers

I hold a MS degree in Human Resource and my goal is to help students with flawless, unique papers, delivered on time.

RN, MSN, PCN, PHN

935 written pages

299 a+ papers

As Registered Nurse (RN, PCN), I can quickly deal with any medical paper. My expertise and writing skills are perfect for this job.

34933 written pages

3882 orders

3727 a+ papers

I have MPA, MHA degrees but, most importantly, experience and skills to provide unique, well-written papers on time.

DNP, BA, APN, PMHNP-BC

2269 written pages

523 a+ papers

I can write about multiple areas and countless topics, as I have a DNP and BA degrees. High-quality writing is my second name.

PhD in American History

654 written pages

128 a+ papers

A PhD in American history comes handy. Unique papers, any topics, swift delivery — helping with academic writing is my passion.

MA, PsyD, LMFT

17399 written pages

2487 orders

2263 a+ papers

Incredibly fast PsyD writer. Efficient paper writing for college. Hundreds of different tasks finished. Satisfaction guaranteed.

MEd, NCC, LPC, LMFT

2930 written pages

480 a+ papers

Top-ranked writer with tons of experience. Ready to take on any task, and make it unique, as well as objectively good. Always ready!

MSW, LICSWA, DSW-C

3944 written pages

710 a+ papers

Experienced Social Work expert focused on good writing, total uniqueness, and customer satisfaction. My goal — to help YOU.

• Stats & Feedback

Have your tasks done by our professionals to get the best possible results.

NO Billing information is kept with us. You pay through secure and verified payment systems.

All papers we provide are of the highest quality with a well-researched material, proper format and citation style.

Our 24/7 Support team is available to assist you at any time. You also can communicate with your writer during the whole process.

You are the single owner of the completed order. We DO NOT resell any papers written by our expert

All orders are done from scratch following your instructions. Also, papers are reviewed for plagiarism and grammar mistakes.

You can check the quality of our work by looking at various paper examples in the Samples section on our website.

Love reading, but my essays leave a lot to be desired. Ordering from you, I've actually improved my skills a bit, thanks a lot.

I stopped struggling with deadlines since I started ordering from you! These guys know how to stay on top even in the face of danger!:D Perfect job as always, thanks!

• High School $11.23 page 14 days
• College $12.64 page 14 days
• Undergraduate $13.2 page 14 days
• Graduate $14.08 page 14 days
• PhD $14.59 page 14 days

Free samples of our work

There are different types of essays: narrative, persuasive, compare\contrast, definition and many many others. They are written using a required citation style, where the most common are APA and MLA. We want to share some of the essays samples written on various topics using different citation styles.

• Essay Writing
• Term Paper Writing
• Research Paper Writing
• Coursework Writing
• Case Study Writing
• Article Writing
• Article Critique
• Annotated Bibliography Writing
• Research Proposal
• Thesis Proposal
• Dissertation Writing
• Admission / Application Essay
• Editing and Proofreading
• Multiple Choice Questions
• Group Project
• Lab Report Help
• Statistics Project Help
• Math Problems Help
• Buy Term Paper
• Term Paper Help
• Case Study Help
• Complete Coursework for Me
• Dissertation Editing Services
• Marketing Paper
• Bestcustomwriting.com Coupons
• Edit My Paper
• Hire Essay Writers
• Buy College Essay
• Custom Essay Writing
• Culture Essay
• Argumentative Essay
• Citation Styles
• Cause and Effect Essay
• 5 Paragraph Essay
• Paper Writing Service
• Help Me Write An Essay
• Write My Paper
• Research Paper Help
• Term Papers for Sale
• Write My Research Paper
• Homework Help
• College Papers For Sale
• Write My Thesis
• Coursework Assistance
• Custom Term Paper Writing
• Buy An Article Critique
• College Essay Help
• Paper Writers Online
• Write My Lab Report
• Mathematics Paper
• Write My Essay
• Do My Homework
• Buy a PowerPoint Presentation
• Buy a Thesis Paper
• Buy an Essay
• Comparison Essay
• Buy Discussion Post
• Buy Assignment
• Deductive Essay
• Exploratory Essay
• Literature Essay
• Narrative Essay
• Opinion Essay
• Take My Online Class
• Reflective Essay
• Response Essay
• Custom Papers
• Dissertation Help
• Buy Research Paper
• Criminal Law And Justice Essay
• Political Science Essay
• Pay for Papers
• College Paper Help
• How to Write a College Essay
• High School Writing
• Personal Statement Help
• Book Report
• Report Writing
• Cheap Coursework Help
• Literary Research Paper
• Essay Assistance
• Academic Writing Services
• Coursework Help
• Thesis Papers for Sale
• Coursework Writing Service UK

I have read and agree to the Terms of Use , Money Back Guarantee , Privacy and Cookie Policy of BestCustomWriting.com

Use your opportunity to get a discount!

To get your special discount, write your email below

Best papers and best prices !

Want to get quality paper done on time cheaper?

You can Choose category

>100,000 Essays About Psychology

Thousands of research papers and psychology essay examples to inspire you.

Get ideas and inspiration for your psychology writing with our database. We have thousands of psychology essay examples submitted by your fellow students.

Use our A-to-Z Database

We only have high-quality papers submitted by successful students.

Enjoy Daily Updates

We add new psychology research papers and essays every day. Only the best essays!

Free Psychology Essay Examples Database

Welcome to our psychology essay examples database. Here you can gain inspiration and ideas for your psychology writing. You can also find helpful educational tools, advice from experts, and other helpful material. Find a paper on any psychology topic written by A students.

Step up your writing game with the Essay4Psychology database! We are here to make your studies fun and enjoyable.

Popular Paper Topics

4,000 words

Latest Papers

Depression and anxiety in college students, the family systems stress tolerance, reflection on eating disorders articles, psychology: person-centered approach, information processing theory and gibson’s theory of perception, support group for mothers of gun violence victims, work stress and organizational citizenship behavior, bullying and mindfulness intervention, exploring psychology discipline, sleep quality and relationship satisfaction in students, prevalence of posttraumatic growth in veterans, child psychology and childhood studies, sports and health psychology as career fields, interpersonal and psychodynamic psychotherapy, “free will, determinism, and…” article by willoughby, perceptions of insanity and americanization of mental illness, word recognition and development process, addressing school anxiety in urban elementary students, paper categories.

Search for the topic you need to get inspiration for writing your paper. Make your studies more enjoyable with us.

Frequent Questions

Where do your samples come from, do i have to pay to use your database are there any hidden charges, can i use an essay from your website to submit my assignment, can i request a sample on a specific topic, can i upload my essay to your database, how do you check the quality of the essays.

Education & Psychology

What Can we help you find?

Popular Searches

• School of Education
• Psychology and Counseling

University Academy

• Request Info

College of Education and Psychology

Be an architect of human potential .

Take the first step toward making a positive impact in your community. At The University of Texas Tyler’s College of Education and Psychology, we give you the tools to become a caring, service-oriented professional in education, psychology or counseling.

Hands-on coursework teaches you the best practices for a clinic, classroom or other educational setting. Through our small class sizes, our renowned faculty support and mentor you throughout your studies. Round out your education through research opportunities, internships and practicums. By the time you graduate, you are ready to take your field’s respective licensure exam and embark on a career that enriches the lives of East Texans.

Degrees and Programs

Whether you are a first-year college student discovering your vocation or a seasoned professional wanting to deepen your knowledge, our programs train you to better serve and uplift individuals in communities and schools across East Texas.

Undergraduate

Certifications

See How We Push the Boundaries of Human Potential

Hands-on training and academic enrichment.

Improving Lives Through Science

One of our main goals is to help the residents of East Texas meet their full potential. Research is an essential part of that mission, and some of our major areas of focus include STEM education, literacy and understanding cognitive impairment in older adults. Through our partnerships with local nonprofits, schools and educational institutions, we actively apply our knowledge and experience to make effective changes today.

Participate in faculty-led research projects as early as your freshman year. As a graduate student, you can help discover solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in the field through our five research centers.

Discover How to Maximize Others’ Potential

East Texas Center for School-Based Research and Instruction

Ingenuity Center

Memory Assessment Research Center

K-16 Literacy Center

Education Beyond the Classroom

Gain practical experience through fieldwork, clinical teaching, internships and practicums. We have multiple partnerships around East Texas where you can fulfill the requirements needed for teaching and clinical certifications, as well as opportunities on campus. For those looking to make an impact beyond our borders, take advantage of UT Tyler’s partnership with Belize to access study abroad, professional development and research opportunities.

Put Your Newfound Skills Into Practice Before You Even Graduate

Our Mission

Psychology and Counseling Training Clinic

Belize Partnership

With You, Every Step of the Way

Embrace your calling in our collaborative, nurturing community that understands the role of support in achieving your goals. Our team of advisors guides you through all program requirements and helps you create a personalized plan of study.

We Help You Become the Professional You Know You Can Be

Undergraduate Advising in Psychology and Counseling

Graduate Advising in Psychology and Counseling

Undergraduate Advising in Education

Graduate Advising in Education

College of Education and Psychology by the Numbers

Departments, faculty spotlight.

Dr. Adam McGuire

Assistant Professor of Psychology

Connect with us

College of education & psychology.

Email:   [email protected] Phone:   (903) 565-5996

BEP 223 3900 University Blvd. Tyler, TX 75799

Office Hours: M-F 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Vernal police officer and suspect hospitalized after shooting

The officer drove himself to the hospital before being flown to the wasatch front for further treatment..

(Rick Egan | The Salt Lake Tribune) A Vernal police officer is being treated at a Wasatch Front hospital after being shot "multiple times" April 27, 2024, according to police. The suspect is was also shot and is hospitalized.

A Vernal police officer and local resident are both being treated for gunshot wounds at Wasatch Front hospitals after shooting each other late Saturday night.

Vernal Police and the Uintah County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call of an intoxicated man threatening a neighbor with a firearm, according to a release posted to Facebook by the Sheriff’s Office. Police allege the man shot at officers and their vehicles when they arrived and a Vernal City Police Officer was shot “multiple times” trying to get out of his car.

Police returned fire, according to the release, and shot the suspect, who then “briefly fled” but was arrested nearby shortly after.

The Vernal officer drove himself to a local hospital, according to the Sheriff’s Department. He and the suspect were both flown to hospitals on the Wasatch Front for further treatment.

A sheriff deputy was also treated for minor injuries and released.

The Utah State Bureau of Investigations is taking over the investigation, according to the release.

Donate to the newsroom now. The Salt Lake Tribune, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity and contributions are tax deductible

Weber State University takes Utah nurse to next level in life, career.

University of utah protests: overnight camping has been allowed before — for espn’s college gameday, university of utah says most arrested at pro-palestine rally are not students, the slamdance film festival is leaving park city after 29 years, university of utah president vows to ‘enforce the rule of law’ as students plan another pro-palestine protest, lds women no longer meet separately with a designated apostle ‘liaison’, featured local savings.