Psychology is the study of mind and behavior. Whenever we try to determine how and why people behave the way they do, we are attempting to answer psychological questions. Behavior takes many forms, and many factors, including environmental, biological, and social factors can influence behavior. Consequently, there are many different types of psychologists working in a variety of settings. The study of brain and behavior, criminal conduct, mental disorders, problems of adjustment, the development of children, personality differences, gender differences, and the effects people have on one another, are just a few examples of what psychologists study.
Some psychologists study behavior in the laboratory, others study behavior in more applied settings.
These are the Applied Psychologists and they typically work outside of a university setting. For example, clinical psychologists and clinical neuropsychologists may work in hospitals, prisons, or private practice assessing and diagnosing mental disorders, and providing therapy for these disorders. Health psychologists are interested in the links between behavior and health. They investigate behavioral and psychological factors in the development of cancer and heart disease, devise techniques to manage stress and pain, and identify health-promoting behaviors. Other applied areas include School Psychology, Forensic Psychology and Sports Psychology.