Applied Psychology: Translating Psychological Science into Action
What is psychology?
Psychology is the scientific and theory-based study of how individuals behave in different contexts. Specifically, psychologists examine how individuals differ from each other (e.g., personality, values, emotional competence, intelligence, skills), and what makes humans or some groups of individuals behave similarly (e.g., biological constraints, cognitive processes, social norms and rules, national or organizational culture). The purpose of psychological science is to challenge and test common beliefs about human functioning, understand and predict behavior, and determine how individuals and groups can develop, learn, and change.
Psychological science is often separated into basic research and applied research. Psychologists working in basic research examine how the mind works (e.g., perception, thinking, decision-making), measure psychological processes and behaviors through systematic assessment and observation, and provide general insights into social interactions and group behaviors. They generally examine their questions in laboratory experiments or through controlled observations. In this way, basic psychological research provides important insights concerning human functioning in the same way as biological or chemical sciences can explain how cells function or what will happen when different chemical compounds interact.
What is applied psychology?
Applied psychology builds upon and knowledge from basic research and theory, and examines human behavior and functioning in the real world. Common applications are in the areas of health and well-being, education, consumer behavior, business, management, economics, finance, and politics.
Some applied psychologists primarily conduct research, and test the findings from laboratory experiments in specific contexts and environments. In this way, they can determine which psychological processes are general principles and which are dependent on specific individual or environmental factors.
Other applied psychologists use the knowledge from basic and applied psychological science research to help organizations, institutions, groups, and individuals solve specific real world problems.
We are specialized in providing information, data, and advice to those interested in:
- effectively measuring, understanding, and influencing behaviors in the workplace
- improving consumer, political, and financial decision-making and communication
- strengthening interpersonal relationships for efficiency and productivity
- managing stress and emotions
- developing social and emotional competence