Evolutionary Psychology

Evolutionary Psychology refers to the distant biological heritage that still affects us cognitively, emotionally and behaviorally. It is more a term, rather than a distinct discipline within Psychology. Evolutionary Psychology may be used to explain such phenomena as the flight-or-flight response, as a popular example; a biological function inherited from our ancestors who sought to either fight with, or flee from, a saber-toothed tiger. As a Psychology, it is limited in scope since human thought, feelings and behaviors have likely become more complex over the eons. Yet, it is often considered to be an important aspect of understanding such questions as the nature of altruism, human aggression, gender roles and sexuality.

Practical Uses of Evolutionary Psychology

Evolutionary Psychology can help with understanding many areas of human behavior. Since it's also related to so many other psychologies and sciences, it can help with understanding those, too. As practical career examples, the study of aggression from an Evolutionary Psychology perspective would likely be of use by Forensic Psychologists and School Psychologists. The study of gender roles from an Evolutionary Psychology perspective might be of value in Feminist Psychology and Organizational Psychology practices. Another area of Evolutionary Psychology, the study of human sexuality, might be helpful in marriage and family, or couples, counseling. There may also be the opportunity of teaching Evolutionary Psychology courses, or including sections of it within certain courses, at the college level. There are many other applications as well.

Sciences Related to Evolutionary Psychology

Some colleges and universities offer Evolutionary Psychology courses and some offer Psychology Degrees majoring in Evolutionary Psychology. The degree may be paired with a related area, such as Evolutionary Psychology and Ethology (the study of animal behavior), Ecology or Cultural Anthropology (the study of human culture from ancient times to the present and how it has evolved).

Evolutionary Psychology courses can often be taken as part of a Clinical, Research or Counseling Psychology Programs too. Some other sciences related to it that you might major in, and take some courses in Evolutionary Psychology for, also include; Sociology, Social Psychology, Biological Psychology, Neuropsychology and others.