Understanding Psychology within the Context of the Other Academic Disciplines

This paper is designed to assist undergraduate and graduate students as they study the field of psychology. As a course supplement, it intends to guide students in their learning throughout the semester and beyond the scope of the present semester in the form of lifelong learning. This learning tool will help students in organizing psychological terms, concepts, and ideas as well as connecting psychological constructs to existing schemas from previous academic courses. A contextual approach will be used that situates psychology historically and structurally within the academic traditions of the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The field of psychology is understood by examining four current viewpoints (psychoanalytic, behavioristic, humanistic, and cognitive) that can be employed to critically compare and contrast theoretical perspectives. The information and ideas presented here will supplement a course textbook, classroom lectures and activities, outside readings, and other learning activities. The document is also designed for readers who need a quick overview, reference, or review of the field of psychology because they are new to the field, new to a particular course, or lacking a strong background in the field. This scholarly effort is dedicated to all of those who strive to develop a comprehensive and in-depth knowledge of psychology in an effort to apply these ideas to practical situations in their professional careers and personal lives. (Contains 2 tables.)