Guide to building a career in Psychology and Behaviour

Psychology and Human Behaviour encompasses several disciplines including Biology, Economics, Law, Design and Engineering. From assisting the judiciary in making fair decisions to developing economic strategies for the welfare of different strata of the country, Psychology finds applications in every area that concerns human beings. Hence, Psychology graduates are sought after in every field

Why do people dream? What makes them happy or violent? How does a child grow up to become a narcissist? Are conflict and war part of human nature? These questions are not only intriguing but also play a decisive role in affecting the world order. Understanding human behaviour can provide answers to these and many other pivotal issues.

The field of Psychology and Human Behaviour gives a comprehensive overview of the scientific study of mental processes. Originating in the ancient civilizations of Egypt and Greece as a branch of Philosophy, Psychology emerged as a separate discipline in the late 1800s, when Wilhelm Wundt established the first Psychology laboratory in Leipzig, Germany.  

Since then, the effects of psychological studies have gained relevance and respect, with researchers making new discoveries and leading reforms that benefit all aspects of society.

Psychology and Human Behaviour encompasses several disciplines including Biology, Economics, Law, Design and Engineering. From assisting the judiciary in making fair decisions to developing economic strategies for the welfare of different strata of the country, Psychology finds applications in every area that concerns human beings.

For instance, various authors argue that psychological interventions at adolescence can prevent several people from committing crimes as adults. Psychological practices are helping in changing people’s behaviour towards environment. This has the potential to mitigate climate change catastrophe. Psychology is also employed by bureaucrats while formulating policies as well as by political leaders to shift the public opinion.

Applications in today’s world

Studying Psychology and Human Behaviour can open the doors to a world of opportunities. Learners can pursue careers in both public and private sectors. With further studies and training, students can become counsellors, clinical psychologists, social workers, consultants, and therapists.

Hospitals, NGOs, and private practise

Clinical and counselling psychologists work with individuals/groups from all backgrounds and mental health conditions in hospitals, mental health clinics and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). After gaining considerable experience, they also begin their private practice.

Industries and corporate

Psychologists and counsellors have redefined the definition of a successful workplace. They help managers at all levels to support and nurture their employees, design better products and services, and create a healthy and productive working environment.

Engineering

An expertise in human behaviour can provide key insights into how consumers interact with technology. From helping overcome mild anxiety while working with a new devise to preventing workplace machine hazards, engineering psychologists work to minimise errors and make human-technology interactions more user-friendly. 

Sports

Recently, American gymnast and four-time Olympic gold medallist Simon Biles withdrew from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, citing mental health concerns. With the help of a sports psychologist, she is using various techniques to help with her mental illness.

Sports psychologists and mental health performance consultants work closely with sportspersons to enhance their performance, assist with relaxation and coping methods, and improve their overall well-being.

Aviation

Psychology and human behaviour professionals use their knowledge to improve the safety and mental health of cabin crew, pilots, and supporting staff. They provide counselling during times of distress such as an accident or a terrorist threat, assist in preparing training programs and policy guidelines, and work with engineers while designing cockpits and cabins.  

Educational institutions

Often academic and peer pressures cause students to take drastic steps in life. This grim reality is reflected in the latest National Crime Records Bureau data that shows that India recorded a new high of 12,526 students, a steep rise of 21.19% since 2019. The Indian Council of Medical Research stated that at least 12% school students in India suffer from emotional, mental, and communication issues.

School and college counsellors play an important part in helping students to manage their stress and mental disorders. They assist students to deal with behavioural changes, provide comfort by listening and offering solutions to their grievances, and help build a healthy relationship with their teachers, parents, and peers.

Policy-making

Psychology and Human Behaviour specialists work with governments and their agencies as consultants. They provide insights backed by evidence and data to formulate a policy and provide recommendations on who will gain from the plan, under what conditions will it work efficiently, and how to communicate the strategy for maximum impact. They also aid in evaluating the performance of a policy after it has been implemented.

Research

Experts in Psychology and Human Behaviour conduct studies on a wide array of topics ranging from development of infants and teenage delinquency to substance addiction and motivational factors, neoliberalism and racism to empowerment and vaccine hesitancy. They help build knowledge by uncovering new findings and innovations.

Why UPES School of Liberal Studies

UPES recently launched the School of Liberal Studies. The school, driven by ‘Emancipated Thoughts, Unshackled Learning’, offers students a B.Sc. course in Psychology & Behaviour. The program can be combined with multiple options of Electives, Minors, Signature and Life Skills courses, making it a unique learning experience for the learners.

BSc. in Psychology and Behaviour aims to impart an understanding of behavioural responses and how the mind and the brain influence them. The students will explore the inter-relationships of human behaviour with social, biological, and cultural factors along with the context within which these interact with each other. They will be trained in the skills that lead to critical thinking, communication (both written and oral), and problem-solving.

The emphasis shall be on experiential learning through application of theoretical knowledge in solving real-world problems. To know more about the program, click here

To enroll, click here