As opposed to natural sciences (biology, physics, chemistry, etc.), social sciences focus on the study of human behavior. This includes examining thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, as well as how people interact with one another in groups.
That said, why is psychology considered a social science? Well, by understanding the complexities of human interaction, psychologists can help create better societies and improve the quality of life for everyone.
Learn in This Article
- What Are Social Sciences
- Why Is Psychology Considered a Social Science
- What’s the Purpose of Psychology
- Non-clinical vs. Clinical Psychology
What Are Social Sciences
In short, social sciences are a group of academic disciplines that study human social behavior.
The list of social sciences includes disciplines such as anthropology, sociology, economics, political science, history, geography, and even psychology. Although these disciplines have their unique methods, they all share a common goal—to understand human behavior.
Social sciences are essential for understanding complex issues that people face. By providing us with insight into the way people think and act, social sciences can find solutions to some of their most pressing problems.
Why Is Psychology Considered a Social Science
Psychology is often considered a social science that studies the mind and behavior. As such, it’s concerned with all aspects of human experience, including thoughts, emotions, and relationships.
Because psychology is such a broad field, it intersects with other disciplines, such as biology, sociology, and anthropology. For example, psychologists may study how group dynamics affect individual behavior or how cultural beliefs shape human attitudes and behaviors.
What’s the Purpose of Psychology
After taking a look at social study subjects and how psychology fits into this category, it’s important to talk about the importance of understanding the human mind.
Improved Communication
Understanding how people think and behave can provide people with the right tools to better communicate their own needs and understand the needs of others. Enhanced communication can build stronger relationships, both personal and professional.
Relationship Building
As mentioned above, the benefits of the study of psychology involve better relationship building. For example, understanding the psychology of love makes it possible to learn how to create and maintain healthy, long-lasting relationships. Not to mention, this type of psychology explores the factors that make people fall in love with one another.
Self-Confidence
Why do people have low-self esteem? How can an individual boost their self-confidence and feel good about themselves? Thanks to the study of psychology, it’s much easier to feel more confident and better understand oneself.
A Deeper Understanding of Human Behavior
Why do people act the way they do? This question will set the foundation for an in-depth exploration of human behavior. By having a better insight into psychology, people can correct bad habits or unhealthy coping mechanisms.
This knowledge will help individuals make more informed decisions in their own lives. For example, if you’re aware that you are more likely to make reckless decisions when you’re tired, you can plan accordingly and make sure to get enough rest.
Non-Clinical vs. Clinical Psychology
Clinical psychology is the branch of psychology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Non-clinical psychology, on the other hand, is a more general field that includes all other subfields of psychology, such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, etc.
While clinical psychologists usually work with patients in a therapeutic setting, non-clinical psychologists may work in research, educational, or industrial settings. In recent years, the distinction between clinical and non-clinical psychologists has become less clear as more and more psychologists take on roles encompassing both areas.
Why Is Psychology Considered a Social Science: Key Takeaways
- In short, psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior.
- Sociology, anthropology, and political sciences fall into the same category as psychology—social sciences.
- The main goals of psychology are to improve our ability to communicate with each other and understand human behavior.
- Clinical psychology is the branch of psychology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, while non-clinical psychology deals with all other aspects of human behavior.