Applied Psychology in Everyday Life

Book excerpt: The practice of psychology involves more than the clinical treatment of mental illness. Although the media may perpetuate the view that all psychologists are healthcare professionals, or specialists who deal with deviant or non-normal behaviors, the majority of psychologists study and practice in diverse areas of human functioning other than clinical psychology. Psychology is the scientific study of human thought and behavior, all human behavior. It is a science with the same rigorous research standards as physics, chemistry, or biology. This book showcases a variety of applications of psychological science in the areas of health, law, sports, business, religion, and money. It is an outgrowth of the River Cities Industrial-Organizational Psychology Conference held at The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, USA, in October 2008. The theme of the 2008 conference was “Applying Psychology to Everyday Life.” We hope the content of this volume enhances your awareness of the importance of applied psychology and that it motivates you to further explore its potential to impact our daily lives.