Psychology is the empirical and theoretical study of behavior and mental life.
It is a science that investigates the causes and dynamics of behavior patterns, and it is a profession that applies knowledge, skills and techniques to the solutions of individual and social problems. A psychologist may be either a scientist, a practitioner, or both, who specializes in the study of behavior and the treatment of behavior-related problems. Educational or professional experiences help the psychologist to understand normal human developmental patterns and how people normally perceive, think, and behave in a wide variety of environments and under many different conditions. The scientist conducts research to add to the ever-expanding fund of knowledge available to colleagues and the general public. The practitioner is trained to provide professional assistance to children, adolescents and adults, as well as to couples, families and groups.