Psychology is an important branch of social science because it enables people to develop a better understanding of themselves and others. Why do we study psychology? Studying psychology can shed insight on everything from how students learn best, what needs children have during different developmental stages and why people behave the way they do.

As the scientific study of the human experience and how behaviors are shaped by mental processes, psychology is relevant to virtually every aspect of human life. Studying psychology can reveal insights about society’s challenges and how to overcome them, as well as how to navigate the individual obstacles that can give rise to personal growth. In short, the field can benefit both the individual and human civilization as a whole.

If you’re fascinated by how the human mind works and by the intricate interplay between thought and behavior, consider becoming a psychology major at Grand Canyon University, where you can benefit from the Christian perspective on various mental health topics.

Psychology centers on researching the human mind and human behavior, as well as how humans interact with each other and develop relationships. The insights generated from the psychology field can help people understand others and work toward solving relationship problems.

How does psychology benefit society? Studying psychology can teach important skills such as the following:^{(See disclaimer 1)}

• Empathy: Psychology can teach us to better understand why other people behave as they do. Through psychological principles, we can develop insights into what motivates others and what influences their behavior. By understanding other people better, it’s possible to nurture empathy for them.
• Communication skills: It's difficult to communicate clearly with other people when you don't understand what they're trying to tell you. The study of psychology can teach people to communicate more effectively by developing a better understanding of not only how language is used, but also the roles of emotion and body language in communication. In other words, psychology teaches better active listening skills, which are integral to clear communication.

Ultimately, with better empathy, communication skills and social awareness, people can develop stronger personal and professional relationships. A better understanding of human behavior can help people navigate challenges they may experience in relationships, whether in their own families or in the workplace.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Why is psychology important for you? You may decide to study psychology because you’d like to pursue a career related to the field. You might hope to make a meaningful difference in your community by empowering others in need of help, but did you know that studying psychology also has the potential to benefit you?

In studying the science of human thought and behavior, you may work toward being better able to recognize your own emotions, which in turn can help you self-regulate your emotions. In developing better self-awareness of your emotions, you can also reflect on how your thought patterns and emotions influence your behaviors.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

These are all skills associated with emotional intelligence. While people who study psychology do not necessarily automatically develop better emotional intelligence, they do have opportunities to work on these skills through awareness and self-reflection. By nurturing emotional intelligence, the field of psychology can help promote better decision-making abilities.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Other benefits of developing greater emotional intelligence by studying psychology can include:^{(See disclaimer 3)}

• Better stress management
• Improved relationships
• More effective communication skills
• Balanced mental health

How does psychology benefit society? There are a number of ways that adding to the body of knowledge in the field of psychology elevates society as a whole. One important societal contribution involves generating a better understanding of other people and why they think and act the way they do. Psychologists strive to understand the various factors that influence thought and behavior.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

In promoting a better understanding of the human mind and behavior, the field of psychology can help people become more motivated to achieve their goals. Psychology can also facilitate better productivity and enable employers to develop safer and more efficient workspaces for their employees. Companies can also put psychological principles to work designing products with better ergonomics.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Of course, the benefits of psychology for society extend well beyond the workplace. Psychologists can support people in their quest for better mental health, well-being and quality of life. The science of psychology can be used to diagnose and treat people with mental illnesses,^{(See disclaimer 4)} empowering patients to overcome challenges and live up to their full potential.

There are different types of psychology, and professionals who work across these various specializations may focus on different aspects of societal improvement. Whereas abnormal psychology focuses on mental health disorders, forensic psychology focuses on improving society by supporting victims of crimes and facilitating the search for justice.

Other psychology professionals may seek to influence society on a higher level, such as by designing and implementing social programs that can improve the well-being of the entire community. Still others seek to influence public policy,^{(See disclaimer 4)} such as by advocating for the allocation of much-needed resources to support mental health. Others participate in psychological research to advance the total body of knowledge in the field.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

The study of psychology isn’t just relevant for psychology students, academics and those working in the field. Psychological principles and theories are relevant to everyday life, with many practical applications to consider. 

Some of the benefits of understanding psychology can include:^{(See disclaimer 1,2,4)}

• Developing better critical thinking skills
• Applying psychological principles to improve management styles and workplace relationships
• Taking better care of both aging parents and children by being better informed about human development
• Improving communication skills
• Applying the scientific method and being better able to identify facts vs. disinformation
• Being more effective in the workplace
• Supporting personal health and wellness
• Improving motivation and productivity

Psychology is beneficial for everyone. Why do we need psychology in daily life? There are plenty of examples of how psychological interventions can support better quality of life.

For example, some schools have implemented the evidence-based Penn Resiliency Program (PRP), which uses positive psychology to empower schoolchildren. PRP teaches children how to recognize their emotions, develop empathy and tackle challenges.^{(See disclaimer 5)}

In schools that have implemented PRP, children have reported feeling more optimistic and better overall well-being. They’re also less aggressive and anxious, and demonstrate lower delinquency rates.^{(See disclaimer 5 )}Clearly, psychology can benefit everyone — from schoolchildren who may never have studied psychology to professionals in the field.

You can pursue your curiosity for human thought and behavior at Grand Canyon University, where you can choose from a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate psychology degrees. Earn a Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree or choose an emphasis such as forensic psychology or performance and sport psychology.

You could further your education by earning a master’s in psychology, such as the Master of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in General Psychology, which may prepare you for a career teaching psychology. Alternatively, choose an emphasis like industrial and organizational psychology or life coaching.