Art Psychology

Art Psychology usually refers to art therapy, but it may instead mean the psychology of art wherein a work of art is explained in psychological terms. Art therapy is a term used to describe the creation of art for therapeutic purposes, such as healing emotional wounds, learning to problem-solve and even to decrease stress. There are Art Therapists who have degrees in that, but some other therapists use art therapy too. It’s often used along with other therapy methods as well. The Psychology of Art, on the other hand, is the study of art works for what they reveal about the effects of the period, culture and other circumstances on human beings at the time.

Sport Psychology

Sport Psychology is focused on the role of the mind in athletic performance and the application of the knowledge and skills gained from athletic performance to other aspects of life and personal growth. Of particular interest to Sport Psychologists are topics such as motivation, self-confidence and team cohesion. A strong interest in sports is required for most to succeed in this field. Jobs include working wherever sports and other athletics are practiced and in health care settings that include wellness programs. A doctorate is usually required for the very limited number of jobs working with professional sports teams. Potential work is in counseling, research, teaching, consultation and planning, but may be combined with other job responsibilities.

Rehabilitation Psychology

Rehabilitation Psychology centers on the study and practice of methods to help people overcome or adjust to physiological or mental injuries, maladies or disabling conditions. They focus on assisting the individual to live as fully as possible in spite of any possible limitations from those conditions. They might work with people who have psychiatric disorders, developmental disabilities, brain injuries or any number of other challenges to improve or maintain certain functions of self-care, pain management, career/vocation and interpersonal relations. They may otherwise be involved in work related to rehabilitation, such as prevention, public education and advocacy roles.

Human Factors Psychology, or Engineering Psychology

Human Factors Psychology, also know as Engineering Psychology, is concerned with the interaction of people with machines for the purposes of productivity, quality and/or efficiency. Examples are how to design an office space or equipment . Human Factors Psychology looks at how to motivate workers, retain good employees, and other concerns of the workplace, especially in industry and government. A person trained in Human Factors Psychology may also be employed by the Defense Department, NASA or in other technical capacities.

School Psychology

School Psychology combines knowledge of education and psychology that is then used for the support of children in schools. The success of children regarding school performance, social functioning and emotions in school is the domain of School Psychologists who may consult with people involved in the child’s life, counsel children and/or parents and otherwise help to ensure an atmosphere conducive to learning. Schools generally require at least a Master’s in Psychology and a teaching certificate for School Psychologist positions.

Forensic Psychology

Forensic Psychology is concerned with providing expert testimony within the judicial system, but is more broadly defined as applicable to any situation involving psychology and the legal justice system. As well as providing expert witness testimony, Forensic Psychologists may provide consultation to law enforcement, help shape criminal justice policy, treat people charged with sex crimes or any number of other activities within the legal system, other government systems, prisons, hospitals, private practice or elsewhere. They are most often concerned with mental illness, or psychiatric disorders, and crime.

Organizational or Industrial Psychology

Organizational, or Industrial, Psychology studies the work environment and is used to improve work results and, sometimes, worker conditions. Many settings, including businesses, universities and non-profit organizations hire people with Organizational Psychology training for human resources, management, other administrative and consultation roles.