What Psychology Means

The term "Psychology" is derived from Greek psyche, human soul, mind or spirit, and logos, which means study. During the ancient era, Psychology is merely the study of human soul. But years have passed and many have contributed to the evolution of its concept. Today, it is defined as the scientific study of human and animal behavior and mental processes. It is primarily focused on stimuli and response. To be able to understand a person, one should consider his or her physical ground of psychological phenomena, family and cultural background, and functions.

Psychology is considered a science because it is objective, systematic, empirical, and dependent on measurement. It answers questions based on certain facts and not on will and desires. Psychology acquired its facts through careful observations and experimentation rather than merely theorizing.

Psychology is a behavioral science that is intended to enlighten everyone on human behavior. The word "behavior" means actions that can be noticed or perceived objectively, such as the reactions of muscles and glands and the correlated patterns of reactions in general. It also covers subjective processes like the cognitive and affective aspects, and other responses that cannot be directly recognized but can be inferred from apparent behavior. Behavior can be categorized as over or covert and intrinsic or extrinsic behavior. Studies conveyed focusing on animals endowed much understanding of human behavior.

As an academic study, psychology facilitates an individual to learn and understand easily and select a career more rationally. It allows a person to acquire emotional stability and make better social adjustments. It empowers one to resolve social and personal issues sensibly and to refine himself into a well-integrated and joyful person.