Grade 11 Psychology
Assignment 1
What is Psychology? What are the various types of psychologists at work? Journal jot a page post
interning with a kind of psychologist for one week.
Ans.: Psychology is the scientific study of human mental processes, experiences & behaviours in
different context. Here it us important to understand the three elements of the definition. It makes
us understand how our mind works and how some people behave they way they do in various
situations. The main aim of a psychologist is to understand cause & effect relationship so that
accurate prediction of behavioural phenomenon can be made.
Firstly, we will talk about mental process. These are the processes we use to solve any problem, to
think, learn or recollect. Solving a puzzle reflects mental process. It should be noted that mental
activities are not same as neural activities. Neural activities are connected with the nervous system,
though they overlap with mental processes, they are not identical. Brain activities throw light on
how are mind works. But experiences & mental processes are much more than that.
An individual who has an experience actually knows what it is. It is more subjective in nature as it
differs from individual to individual. Experiences are embedded in our consciousness which are
affected both by internal & external factors. Travelling in same weather conditions, by same mode of
transportation, is different when done with friends than done with strangers.
Behaviour is response to the cause which we experience. Watching a thriller makes our heart pound
faster. Stepping on sharp objects will make us pull our leg up. All these are reactions to the stimulus
thrown at us. Hearing words of praise can make one feel invincible and drive us to put in more
effort. Psychology as a science aims to understand all three of them to help predict outcomes.
Where ever there are humans, there is going to be need of psychologists. It has ever become so
important to understand how people behave the way they do in different situations. Psychology
helps in predicting outcomes on basis of verifiable data so that people are able to function efficiently
and without conflict. All aspects of human world require psychology. In terms of their degree & area
of work they are mainly clinical psychologists, counselling psychologists, community psychologists,
school psychologists and Organizational psychologists.
Clinical psychologists mainly deal with patients who suffer from severe psychological disorders such
as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, etc.
Counselling psychologists help clients deal with everyday challenges and interpersonal issues, career
problems, self-esteem issues, etc.
Community psychologists focus on issues related to a community. Like designing drug rehabilitation
programmes. Helping elderly population cope with life style changes, etc.
School psychologists play a very important role in helping young minds develop with a healthy mind
set. They help in formulating school policies which would help in the overall development of the
child. Like Freddrick Douglas said, ‘It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men’.
Organizational psychologists help various organisations formulate policies which deal with problems
which the executives, employees or labour face. They organize skill development programs &
consultancy services which enhance their efficiency and effectiveness.