Opportunities for work in psychology are expanding year by year. And that's a
good thing. Most psychologists say they love their work, citing the variety of
daily tasks and the flexibility of their schedules.
Psychologists specialize in a host of different areas within the field and identify
themselves by many different labels.
Clinical Psychologists
assess and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. These range from
short-term crises, such as difficulties resulting from adolescent rebellion, to
more severe, chronic conditions such as schizophrenia.
Developmental psychologists
study the psychological development of the human being that takes place throughout
life. Until recently, the primary focus was on childhood and adolescence, the most
formative years. But as life expectancy in this country approaches 80 years, developmental
psychologists are becoming increasingly interested in aging, especially in researching
and developing ways to help elderly people stay as independent as possible.
Forensic psychologists
apply psychological principles to legal issues. Their expertise is often essential
in court. They can, for example, help a judge decide which parent should have custody
of a child or evaluate a defendant's mental competence to stand trial. Forensic
psychologists also conduct research on jury behavior or eyewitness testimony. Some
forensic psychologists are trained in both psychology and the law.
School psychologists
work directly with public and private schools. They assess and counsel students,
consult with parents and school staff, and conduct behavioral interventions when
appropriate. Most school districts employ psychologists full time.
Social psychologists
study how a person's mental life and behavior are shaped by interactions with
other people. They are interested in all aspects of interpersonal relationships,
including both individual and group influences, and seek ways to improve such interactions.
For example, their research helps us understand how people form attitudes toward
others, and when these are harmful—as in the case of prejudice—suggests ways to
change them.
Sports psychologists
help athletes refine their focus on competition goals, become more motivated,
and learn to deal with the anxiety and fear of failure that often accompany competition.
The field is growing as sports of all kinds become more and more competitive and
attract younger children than ever.
For more information about these careers visit:
http://www.apa.org/students/student1.html
or contact the
LaGrange College Career Center
at (706) 880-8177.
Links/PDFs
American Psychological Association career brochure (PDF)