What Are the Benefits of Learning Psychology?

What Are the Benefits of Learning Psychology?

If you have always been interested in helping others and even consider yourself an armchair psychologist, consider learning the academic fundamentals of the discipline. Through the study of psychology, students work to understand the complex mental processes that dictate human actions. Along with presenting an interesting academic challenge, psychology has a host of applicable uses. Those who dedicate themselves to the study of this discipline will find that they are able to apply their understanding of human behavior to numerous situations and use their knowledge in their everyday life.

1 Improved Communication Skills

Many prominent psychologists have explored how humans engage in communication. By developing an understanding of these individuals' findings, you can better your personal communication skills and increase the effectiveness of your communication efforts. Understanding the psychology of human interactions also makes it possible for you to avoid potential pitfalls that can lead to a costly communication breakdown.

2 Better Understanding of Self

Psychology can help you understand how and why you feel as you do. Through a study of psychology, you can see that you are not alone in your emotions or ideas, even when it may seem as if you are. Additionally, an understanding of psychological principles can help you determine what you can do to respond to unwanted emotions and alleviate painful or undesirable emotional situations.

3 Enhanced Understanding of Others

The study of psychology gives students a window into the actions of others. Understanding the emotional drives behind human actions can make it easier to comprehend seemingly incomprehensible actions. It can also help you improve your ability to assist others in dealing with emotional hardship or empathize with those struggling with a difficult dilemma.

4 Stronger Conflict Resolution Skills

By learning about the reasons behind people's actions in psychology you can become more adept at solving conflicts. When you understand how a person is likely to respond to a situation, and the emotional processes that lead to that response, you can more effectively predict how a situation will transpire. You will be much more likely speak to an individual with whom you are having a conflict in a level-headed and logical manner.

5 Good Career Prospects

Studying psychology has financial benefits as well. Those who study psychology prepare themselves for many jobs both within the mental health industry and in business and educational settings. Student easily apply skills learned in psychology class to business or social situations, making then an asset in almost any line of work.

Erin Schreiner is a freelance writer and teacher who holds a bachelor's degree from Bowling Green State University. She has been actively freelancing since 2008. Schreiner previously worked for a London-based freelance firm. Her work appears on eHow, Trails.com and RedEnvelope. She currently teaches writing to middle school students in Ohio and works on her writing craft regularly.

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