What do you Learn in the Psychology Program?

It is common that, at a certain point in life, the need arises to decide which university career to study (Universidad Internacional de Valencia, 2018). In this process, many people consider psychology as an option, especially due to the interest that the human mind and its mysteries generate (Universidad Internacional de Valencia, 2018). According to the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018) and the Universidad Internacional de Valencia (2018), this choice is particularly appropriate, as it is a profession focused on understanding people's thoughts, emotions, and behavior, with the objective of actively contributing to general well-being and promoting stable and lasting mental health.

Moreover, psychology has established itself as one of the most in-demand careers at present (Universidad Internacional de Valencia, 2018). This phenomenon is explained, on one hand, by the growing curiosity of the population to understand psychological processes and, on the other hand, by the versatility of psychological knowledge, which allows its application in a wide variety of contexts. Thanks to this breadth, as indicated by the Universidad Internacional de Valencia (2018), psychology graduates have access to diverse job opportunities in multiple areas, which reinforces the attractiveness of this discipline both in academic and professional fields.

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How Long Does a Psychology Degree Take?

A career in psychology usually extends between 4 and 5 years, or the equivalent of 8 to 10 academic semesters (Regader, n.d.). However, this period can vary significantly as it is influenced by multiple personal factors. The duration of these studies depends largely on the level of motivation, individual capacity, and the time each student can dedicate to their education. For this reason, according to Regader (n.d.), some people manage to finish their degree in a shorter period, while others may require more time to complete it.

Is Studying Psychology Difficult?

Before beginning their studies in the field of behavioral science, many students often ask themselves the same question: will this career really be difficult? This concern often arises when considering whether such an interesting profession, which appears to be easily accessible, could represent a greater challenge than expected due to its level of demand (Regader, n.d.). Nevertheless, as with any other discipline, the degree of difficulty does not depend solely on academic content but on personal factors (Universidad Internacional de Valencia, 2018). Elements such as level of interest, determination, discipline, and the ability to face challenges are determining factors in the educational process. There are no inherently easy or difficult careers; what really makes the difference is the commitment and motivation of those who decide to embark on this path. Consequently, according to the Universidad Internacional de Valencia (2018), the academic experience will be linked to the individual's willingness to learn, adapt, and persevere.

Key Requirements to Study Psychology

People interested in studying psychology must have a set of personal and social skills that allow them to perform effectively in this field (Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, n.d.). Among the most important traits is emotional intelligence, as it is fundamental to recognize and manage one's own emotions, as well as understand the emotions of others. Similarly, it is essential to have tolerance for frustration and a solution-oriented attitude, especially in complex or emotionally demanding situations. On the other hand, it is important for future students to be aware of their own needs, both in the social and emotional spheres. According to the Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango (n.d.), this self-awareness facilitates a more comprehensive education and contributes to the development of a healthy relationship with others.

Additionally, they are expected to show genuine interest in the needs of others, accompanying this disposition with sensitivity, empathy, and effective communication skills (Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, n.d.). The ability to actively listen to other people is an indispensable aspect for professional practice, as is the ability to establish empathetic and respectful bonds. Finally, in accordance with the Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango (n.d.), creativity and intellectual curiosity are also valued qualities in those who decide to train as psychologists, as they allow for the exploration of new perspectives, better understanding of human behavior, and adaptation to diverse contexts within professional practice.

Keys to Being a Good Psychologist

Often, the difference between a good psychologist and a deficient one lies primarily in the attitude adopted and adherence to certain principles and habits that strengthen professional performance (Corbin, n.d.). In this sense, one of the essential aspects is passion for psychology, especially when there is a real commitment to the well-being of those who come to the office seeking help (Matos, n.d.). This commitment, however, implies a great responsibility. Practicing psychology is not a simple task, as the professional constantly faces complex and emotionally intense stories. In correspondence with Matos (n.d.), this exposure demands not only vocation but also rigorous and continuous preparation.

To practice effectively, the psychologist must be properly trained and stay updated, as only then can they identify which therapeutic tools are truly effective and understand why they work (Matos, n.d.). This need for updating is directly related to the changing dynamics of society, which advances at an accelerated pace in technological terms and constantly modifies the way individuals relate to their environment (Corbin, n.d.). Consequently, understanding contemporary reality requires that the therapist not only be attentive to these changes but also commit to continuous training. According to Corbin (n.d.), education is not only a means to acquire knowledge but an essential basis for growth and constant improvement in professional practice.

Will I Be Able to Handle Other People's Problems?

In the final semesters of the Psychology degree, students have the opportunity to participate in professional practice within the area they choose (Regader, n.d.). This experience is designed so that students can evaluate their own suitability in professional practice, especially in relation to direct interaction with other people. The main objective of this formative stage is to allow future professionals to face real situations in contexts where their interventions can generate a significant impact. For this reason, it is considered a crucial phase for identifying strengths, areas for improvement, and level of preparation to assume clinical, educational, organizational, or community responsibilities, according to the approach they have chosen. Thus, according to Regader (n.d.), professional practice not only represents an academic requirement but also an experience that facilitates the transition to work practice, providing key elements for the development of professional and personal competencies.

What Subjects Are Studied in a Psychology Degree?

Initial training in psychology is structured in a basic cycle that provides general and complementary preparation (Corbin, n.d.). Subsequently, according to Corbin (n.d.), one accesses a specialization cycle with optional content in different fields, such as clinical psychology, educational psychology, legal psychology, labor and organizational psychology, as well as social psychology.

History of Psychology

To achieve a solid foundation in psychology, it is essential to understand its historical evolution (Corbin, n.d.). It is fundamental to know what psychology is, what its research areas are, what problems it addresses, and which theoretical schools have been most influential. Within this approach, in correspondence with Corbin (n.d.), essential figures such as Plato, Socrates, René Descartes, Aristotle, Sigmund Freud, Burrhus Frederic Skinner, John Broadus Watson, and Albert Bandura stand out, who have contributed to the development of psychological thought throughout time.

Biological Bases of Behavior

The study of biological bases allows understanding how mental processes are generated, including memory, learning, and language (Corbin, n.d.). This field explores the functioning of neurons, the transmission of nerve impulses, and cerebral organization. Likewise, according to Corbin (n.d.), it analyzes how different areas of the brain interact with the body, which is essential for explaining human behavior from a scientific perspective.

Developmental Psychology

This branch addresses the psychological and behavioral changes that occur throughout life, from birth to old age (Corbin, n.d.). In accordance with Corbin (n.d.), its analysis is carried out based on three main axes: physical development, which includes bodily growth and biological changes; cognitive development, focused on intellectual capacities and their evolution; and social and personality development, which considers individual differences and interpersonal relationships throughout the life cycle.

Group Psychology

Although traditionally addressed within social psychology, group psychology has gained relevance as an independent subject in many universities (Corbin, n.d.). This field focuses on understanding group processes, the dynamics between members, role formation, internal norms, cohesion, communication, and relationships between different groups. According to Corbin (n.d.), it is recognized that many human behaviors cannot be fully understood if studied in isolation, without considering the group context.

Statistics and Psychometrics

Despite possible initial resistance to mathematics, the handling of statistical tools is essential in psychology, as it allows analyzing, predicting, and intervening in human behavior in a well-founded manner (Corbin, n.d.). Psychometrics, for its part, provides the necessary methods, techniques, and theories to measure psychological variables. According to Corbin (n.d.), psychometric tests constitute key instruments in evaluation and diagnosis in various professional contexts.

Social Psychology

This field focuses on the psychological processes that influence the functioning of society, such as social interactions, mechanisms that shape personality, and the influence of the environment (Corbin, n.d.). Topics such as leadership, prejudices, and group dynamics are addressed. In addition, according to Corbin (n.d.), emblematic experiments are analyzed, including the Stanford Prison study directed by Philip Zimbardo and Stanley Milgram's obedience experiment.

Clinical Psychology

Clinical psychology is one of the most recognized areas of the discipline (Corbin, n.d.). Its approach is oriented toward the evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and intervention in people who present mental disorders or maladaptive behaviors. The central objective of this branch is to restore psychological balance and promote mental health. In correspondence with Corbin (n.d.), it is considered a fundamental practice both in academic and professional fields.

Ethics in Psychology

Professional ethics in psychology constitutes an essential pillar for the responsible practice of the discipline (Corbin, n.d.). Psychologists must know the ethical principles that regulate their work, respect human dignity, protect the fundamental rights of people, and maintain confidentiality. Moreover, in accordance with Corbin (n.d.), they have the obligation to use their knowledge to promote individual and collective well-being, within the limits and resources available in each context.

Neuropsychology

Neuropsychology, integrated into the field of neuroscience, studies the relationship between the brain and behavior (Corbin, n.d.). This field is not limited to the study of pathologies but also analyzes the normal functioning of the nervous system. It uses neuroimaging techniques, such as computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), to observe brain activity. In accordance with Corbin (n.d.), it deals with key issues such as the functions of neurotransmitters or the causes of disorders such as aphasia.

Specialty (Sports Psychology, Organizational Psychology, Legal Psychology, Among Others)

After completing basic training, future psychologists can choose to specialize in a specific area of the discipline (Corbin, n.d.). Each specialty demands particular technical competencies, which is why many professionals decide to pursue master's or postgraduate studies. According to Corbin (n.d.), these formations allow deepening in fields such as sports psychology, organizational or legal psychology, and thus strengthen academic and professional development in the behavioral sciences.

What Is Learned in a Psychology Degree?

Empathy

For psychologists, it is very important to have empathy, that is, to have knowledge of another person's thoughts and know how to "put themselves in their shoes" (Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula, 2018). In this way, psychology professionals can analyze the problems that people face, thus enabling guidance to patients and, in this way, helping them improve their lives. Although all people have a certain degree of empathy, this is a very complex skill to develop. Empathy is very useful for daily life, since it can help people understand interpersonal relationships and avoid conflicts with others. According to the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018), it is worth noting that psychologists without empathy are unlikely to succeed, since this career is based on kindness and patient care.

Listening

Listening seems an easy thing, even more than one person thinks there is nothing special about it, but when talking about learning to listen in psychology, this type of action has a very professional meaning (Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula, 2018). Many people who turn to psychologists take the initiative to do so, however, our subconscious often prevents us from having clarity about our problems for fear of being judged. As human beings, we are afraid of being judged and opening up completely, much more so when facing a stranger. To solve people's problems, professionals in the field must be trained to maintain an unhindered dialogue and distinguish between what is real and what is not. In accordance with the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018), knowing how to listen is one of the main foundations of psychology, which is why those who study this profession must be very patient and very careful with active listening.

Special Ethical Criterion

Psychology requires its graduates to have a professional practice closely related to ethics (Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula, 2018). The subtlety of the confessions that people make in consultation leads to psychologists having a great responsibility. In correspondence with the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018), throughout most of the career, there is discussion about the importance of maintaining ethical behavior in professional development; otherwise, one can even lose the work permit.

Affective Communication

Psychology is complicated for one reason: it studies and treats human beings, thinking and reasoning beings, but above all beings who feel and make others feel (Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula, 2018). These human abilities can be very beneficial sometimes and at other times can cause harm. As a psychologist, one has to establish a relationship of trust with the patient, but one must also be very careful with what is said to people who attend the office. If precise words are not used or gestures are misunderstood, one can change a person's life negatively, specifically due to the influence and power of the psychologist's words. So, the ability to communicate affectively is one of the skills learned in this career. According to the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018), this experience allows psychologists to have a positive impact on the people with whom they communicate.

Capacity for Analysis and Interpretation

Psychology students must develop analytical and explanatory skills (Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula, 2018). Although various professionals can perfect this skill, psychologists are more interested in it, since a small detail can completely change a diagnosis and, consequently, change a person's life. Therefore, the knowledge and skills acquired during the psychology career allow the student to analyze and explain everything that is in front, for example, the attitudes, gestures, and reasoning of the patient. Analysis and interpretation skills put the psychology student a step ahead of people studying other careers, since it requires a higher degree of concentration. Similarly, according to the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018), this skill can be useful in daily living.

Capacity to Channel People's Problems

As in any career, psychologists also have their limitations; they are not Superman or Wonder Woman (Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula, 2018). Psychology professionals do not always know how to intervene in all cases they encounter in life; however, they do have the necessary knowledge to channel problems and guide the patient toward the best solution. Unlike doctors, who know exactly which part of the body should be cared for, the study of human behavior and thought requires more research and diagnosis, and consequently, this requires constant reconsideration. Some patients need psychologists specialized in certain fields, while others need psychiatric attention. However, in accordance with the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018), if there is one thing that can be certain, it is that if a person studies psychology, they will be prepared to respond effectively in most situations that present themselves.

Introspection

One of the advantages of studying psychology is that one has the opportunity to grow on a personal level (Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula, 2018). As a psychologist, one can analyze and distinguish certain behaviors and states of oneself that can cause problems; moreover, by understanding the importance of dealing with such situations or disorders, one learns to examine and seek the help of another psychologist. This helps professional development, since one not only learns about the career in the third person but also as a patient. This helps the student understand new methods and improve their treatment. Finally, according to the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018), it is worth noting that studying psychology does not make people immune to pathology.

Identifying Pathologies

An important skill for psychology professionals is the recognition of pathologies, in other words, diagnosing and paying attention to the problems that can be found in the office (Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula, 2018). It is not easy to identify a disorder or pathology, since there are many factors that influence the occurrence of unhealthy states in the human brain, such as genetics, stress, traumatic events, significant changes in life, and even physical problems. However, according to the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018), a career in psychology provides the future psychology professional with all the necessary tools to have the ability to understand, analyze, diagnose, and respond to this type of situation in the daily lives of millions of people around the world.

Identifying Behaviors of Society

Generally, when a person thinks of the field of psychology, they imagine the typical doctor-patient routines; however, the profession has many variants and fields of research that complement each other to provide a broader panorama of knowledge (Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula, 2018). One of the areas that is learned to master is social psychology, a branch that attracts many people and, due to its usefulness, acquires increasing importance in the professional field of the profession. Understanding social behavior is not easy, especially because human beings are becoming increasingly complex. For example, there is much research that comes from this discipline and has changed the paradigm of the way people think and develop in society. According to the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018), social psychology studies topics such as machismo, social prejudices, and stereotypes.

Social Skills

For many people, talking to someone or establishing a bond can be an odyssey (Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula, 2018). This is a normal phenomenon, since no one is born with a social manual that tells us how to behave to adapt to society. However, an advantage of psychology is that understanding it helps students develop social relationships, which can be complicated for many people. Finally, the characteristics of the profession make it a tool for people to get along with each other. If a person finds it difficult to communicate with another, shortly after studying psychology, they find that they do things that were once very complicated and are now very simple. Even, according to the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018), they seek to build those social relationships, since when one is a psychologist, all relationships are a source of practice and professional learning.

Developing Scientific Content

As a social science, psychology never loses its scientific character; therefore, one of the purposes of research is to continue generating knowledge to help people overcome their obstacles or psychological problems (Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula, 2018). Like all science, psychology is based on the scientific method and promotes the generation of rigorous and socially significant knowledge, which has a purpose and is not just the pursuit of the individual's ego satisfaction. According to the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018), this type of research can be observed in all branches of psychology; however, it is more evident in clinical psychology or neuropsychology, since these fields are responsible for studying the elements involved in the behavior and mental health of people.

Attending to Crises

This is a fundamental characteristic that can explain why psychologists are so important in today's society (Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula, 2018). The knowledge and skills of psychologists allow them to face crises, from the smallest situations, such as a person's bad attitude, to the largest situations, such as a suicide attempt due to depression. Psychologists have knowledge to resolve conflicts and facilitate conciliation, which is very useful, for example, for those companies with different internal problems due to pressure. Moreover, according to the Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula (2018), this skill can take care of a person who is on the verge of collapse and requires someone to help them find a solution they cannot find.

Advice for Future Psychologists

First, love the study of the brain and knowledge of the relationship with human behavior, since, in the career, subjects such as biological bases, neuropsychology, sensation and perception, psychological processes, and other disciplines are seen. Likewise, it is recommended to train to handle descriptive statistics, statistical procedures, and research methods, since, for the profession to have the scientific rigor required in the process of conducting research on human behavior, an element of quantification is needed. In the same vein, it is recommended to understand that all contributions of psychology are not only for the people surrounding a patient but that these principles, methods, strategies, and techniques can and should be applied, mainly, to oneself, to seek one's own happiness and quality of life. Finally, it is recommended to constantly stay updated, since recent studies help people better understand the complexity of human behavior.

Referencias

1. Centro de Estudios Superiores de Tapachula. (2018). 15 cosas que aprendes en la carrera de psicología | Blog CEST. Retrieved 26 October 2020, from https://www.soycest.mx/blog/index.php/15-cosas-que-aprendes-en-la-carrera-de-psicologia/

2. Corbin, J. ​10 características esenciales de un buen psicólogo. Psicologiaymente.com. Recuperado 3 August 2021, a partir de https://psicologiaymente.com/psicologia/caracteristicas-buen-psicologo

3. Corbin, J. (s.f.). 21 temas que debes estudiar para ser un psicólogo excelente. Retrieved 26 October 2020, from https://psicologiaymente.com/psicologia/temas-estudiar-psicologo-excelente

4. Matos, J. (s.f.). Amo mi profesión: Ser psicólogo es lo mejor que me ha pasado nunca. Retrieved 26 October 2020, from https://enequilibriomental.net/amo-mi-profesion/

5. Regader, B. ¿Es difícil la carrera de Psicología? 8 psicólogos opinan. Psicologiaymente.com. Recuperado 3 August 2021, a partir de https://psicologiaymente.com/psicologia/dificil-carrera-psicologia

6. Regader, B. (s.f.). ¿Por qué estudiar Psicología? 10 puntos que debes valorar. Retrieved 26 October 2020, from https://psicologiaymente.com/psicologia/por-que-estudiar-psicologia

7. Universidad Internacional de Valencia. (2018). 7 cosas que debes saber antes de estudiar psicología | VIU. Retrieved 26 October 2020, from https://www.universidadviu.com/7-cosas-debes-saber-estudiar-psicologia/