What does psychology mean?
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior. It examines topics including perception, memory, emotion, learning, development, personality, and social interaction, using methods drawn from the natural and social sciences. The word is commonly used as a subject of study, as in a university department of psychology, and as a field associated with research, assessment, and mental-health practice. In less technical contexts, it can refer more broadly to understanding the motives and reactions behind people’s actions, such as discussing the psychology of a decision or a market. Psychology is related to psychiatry and sociology, but it has a distinct focus: psychiatrists are medically trained clinicians who treat mental disorders, while sociologists primarily study social institutions and collective life. The term is also used in specialist branches such as cognitive, social, developmental, and clinical psychology.
nounThe scientific study of the mind and behavior, including mental processes, emotions, perception, learning, and social interaction. In broader usage, it can refer to the systematic analysis of a person’s thoughts, feelings, or actions.
- The scientific study of the mind and behavior, including cognition, emotion, perception, development, and social interaction.
- The analysis or theory of a person’s mental processes, emotions, and behavioral patterns in a particular context.
"She studies psychology at university, focusing on the cognitive processes involved in learning."
"There is substantial psychology research showing that regular sleep improves attention and emotional regulation."
"The psychology of the negotiation revealed that both sides were more concerned with fairness than with price."
The plural is used when referring to different systems, theories, or approaches within psychology, especially in academic and historical contexts.
"The seminar compared different psychologies of learning and motivation."
The word “psychology” comes from the Greek words for “mind” and “study,” a remarkably direct description of what the discipline does.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does psychology come from?
Psychology comes from Greek psychē, meaning “mind” or “soul,” combined with -logia, meaning “study of” or “science of.” The compound entered English in the early 19th century as psychology, initially referring to the scientific study of the mind. Its Greek root is reflected in related words such as psyche, psychiatric, psychosis, and psychical, although modern uses of psychology are grounded primarily in empirical scientific inquiry.
Related word forms
How psychology is actually used
Usually formal and academic. In everyday contexts, “psychology” is sometimes used broadly for insight into human motivation, even when no formal psychological assessment is implied.
Easily confused with psychology
Psychology studies the mind and behavior scientifically, whereas psychiatry is the medical field focused on diagnosing and treating mental disorders.
Psychology focuses primarily on mental and individual processes, while sociology emphasizes society, social structures, and collective behavior.