Exploring Psychology Careers Psy 305

Exploring Psychology Careers

Lashanda Sanford

PSY 305

Daven Salmi

Exploring Psychology Careers

Making the decision to enroll in college can be a challenge for many as you have to decide what you want to major in. What are you good at doing? Can you see yourself doing this in the future? What type of education will I need? These are just to name a few of the things that are needed when preparing for college and selecting a major. Some students select majors that they think will make them the most income and provide financial stability, while others choose something interests them. I believe that when you choose a major it is important to choose something that you will enjoy and something that will make you want to learn. Psychology is the major that has my interest and makes me want to learn. Psychology has many different specializations, but the two that I have chosen to research are clinical and forensic psychology.

“Clinical psychology is the psychological specialty that provides continuing and comprehensive mental and behavioral health care for individuals and families; consultation to agencies and communities; training, education and supervision; and research-based practice” (American Psychological Association, 2015). They observe, study, and conduct experiments, hoping to promote a change within the individual. Clinical psychologists have a main focus on mental health but there are several different sub-specialties within this field. Child and adult mental health, emotional disturbances and substance abuse are popular sub-specialties. Psychologically literate people have an expansive vocabulary, are able to use scientific thinking, be creative when solving problems by looking at all angles, have integrity, act ethically, and are insightful about others’ behavior and their own (R. Landrum et al, 2014). You may find a clinical psychologist working inside of a hospital, at their own practice, or even in a school....