Since the 1960s, the various methods used by psychologists have changed remarkably. Now, most of them do not identify with any particular school of thought, and prefer to concetrate on a given specialty area instead. They generally use a more universal approach, drawing on ideas from a range of perspectives. What follows are some of the major perspectives that continue to play a role in the development of psychological thought and counseling today:
Through the study of human physiology, psychology gradually evolved and became a separate science, namely biological psychology-a perspective that stresses the biological and physical aspects of man’s behavior. It is enhanced by our present-day ability to do research and come to a greater understanding of the human nervous system and brain. Using tools such as PET amd MRI Scans, scientists can now determine the psychological effects of drugs, brain damage, and disease in a way that was never possible before.
Behavioral psychology is concerned with the way in which human behavior is learned and reinforced by relevant environmental variables. Its principles are generally applied in a mental health setting as counselors and psychiatrists use different techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental illnesses.
The cognitive perspective concentrates on our various mental processes including thinking, decision-making, memory and problem-solving. This approach has become increasingly popular in recent decades, due to the influence of Albert bandura, Jean Piaget, and others.
Cross-cultural researchers and psychologists study human behavior from a cultural perspective, and as a result, they have made important discoveries about the influence society and culture have on the individual’s thinking and related behavior.
Evolutionary researchers and psychologists apply the essential principles of evolution to various psychological phenomena. This approach maintains that certain mental processes have assisted humans in reproduction and survival throughout history.
Influenced by the work of Abraham Maslow, Carl Rogers, and others, the humanistic perspective emphasizes the way in which motivation can influence human thought and behavior. With this approach, the concept of self-actualization is considered to be the key, along with other basic elements.
The psycho-dynamic perspective, which began with Sigmund Freud, focuses on early childhood events, interpersonal relationships, and the unconscious mind as factors in explaining human behavior and treating those who suffer from some form of mental illness.
The goal of researchers and practitioners in the field of psychology is to comprehend and interpret human emotion, thought and behavior. Their studies are based on certain topics or problems to be solved rather than any underlying philosophy, and they freely choose among various perspectives to shed some light on their investigation. Their findings also have practical applications in many areas, including the treatment of mental illness, self-help, and performance enhancement.
