Discussing every type of psychology and all psychology fields is very hard, however, we have tried our best to explain the top 100 fields of psychology for the first time in a single article. If you love psychology, keep reading!
The field of psychology is a multifaceted tapestry, rich in diversity and complexity. There are many types of psychology, each dedicated to understanding different facets of the human mind, behavior, and experience, psychology offers an intriguing journey through the intricacies of the human psyche. From the exploration of mental disorders in clinical psychology to the examination of cultural influences in cross-cultural psychology, these diverse branches collectively contribute to our understanding of what it means to be human.
Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behavior, and it’s a field that encompasses a wide array of specializations, each shedding light on different aspects of our mental and emotional experiences. In this article, we’ll explore the top 100 major types of psychology, briefly explaining each type of psychology, giving you an insight into the diverse world of this fascinating discipline.
Please note that this list is not in any particular order.
1. Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal psychology focuses on the study of atypical patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions. It delves into mental disorders, their causes, and effective treatment strategies.
2. Applied Psychology
Applied psychology applies the principles of psychology to real-world issues, such as solving workplace problems, improving communication, and enhancing human performance in various contexts.
3. Behavioral Psychology
Behavioral psychology examines how our behaviors are shaped by our environment, learning, and conditioning. It is often associated with research on reinforcement and behavior modification.
4. Biopsychology
Biopsychology, is a type of psychology that explores the relationship between our biology (brain and nervous system) and behavior. It investigates how biological factors influence our thoughts, emotions, and actions.
5. Clinical Psychology
Clinical psychology is one of the most well-known branches, focusing on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. These experts work with individuals and groups to improve mental well-being. Explore our therapy services offered by licensed clinical psychologists.
6. Cognitive Psychology
Cognitive psychology is a type of psychology that investigates mental processes, such as memory, perception, language, and problem-solving. It aims to understand how we think and make sense of the world.
7. Community Psychology
Community psychology is a type of psychology addresses the interaction between individuals and their communities. It focuses on promoting well-being and preventing psychological problems at the community level.
8. Comparative Psychology
Comparative psychology is a type of psychology studies the behavior and mental processes of different animal species. This branch helps us gain insights into the evolution of cognitive processes and behavior.
9. Consumer Psychology
Consumer psychology explores how individuals make decisions when purchasing goods and services. It examines factors influencing consumer behavior and market trends.
10. Counseling Psychology
Counseling psychology is the type of psychology that’s often confused with clinical psychology. It is similar to clinical psychology but it often focuses on personal and interpersonal issues rather than severe mental disorders. Counselors work to help people cope with life challenges. Explore our counselling services here.
11. Criminal Psychology
Criminal psychology is a type of psychology that delves into the minds of criminals and their behavior. It helps in understanding criminal motivations and assisting in crime prevention and law enforcement.
12. Cross-Cultural Psychology
Cross-cultural psychology investigates the influence of culture on human behavior and cognition. It explores how cultural factors shape our perceptions and values.
13. Cultural Neuroscience
Cultural neuroscience is an emerging field that examines the interaction between culture and the brain. It seeks to understand how culture impacts neural processes.
14. Cyberpsychology
The type of psychology that focuses on the impact of technology on human behavior and well-being is known as cyberpsychology. It explores issues related to online behavior, social media, and virtual environments.
15. Developmental Psychology
Developmental psychology studies the psychological growth and changes that occur throughout a person’s life. It includes research on cognitive, emotional, and social development, from infancy to old age.
16. Differential Psychology
Differential psychology focuses on understanding the differences between individuals, whether they be in cognitive abilities, personality traits, or other psychological characteristics. It seeks to identify the sources of these differences and their implications.
17. Discursive Psychology
Discursive psychology is a type of psychology that investigates language and discourse as a means to understand how people construct and convey meaning in their communication. It examines the role of language in shaping our perceptions and beliefs.
18. Ecological Psychology
Ecological psychology explores the dynamic relationship between individuals and their environment. It examines how the physical and social surroundings influence behavior and perception.
19. Economic Psychology
Economic psychology examines the psychological factors that influence economic decision-making. It delves into areas such as consumer behavior, financial decision-making, and the psychology of pricing.
20. Educational Psychology
Educational psychology focuses on learning and teaching. It explores the cognitive and emotional processes involved in education, aiming to improve instructional methods and student outcomes.
21. Engineering Psychology
Engineering psychology, also known as human factors psychology, studies the interaction between humans and technology. It aims to design systems and products that are user-friendly and safe.
22. Environmental Psychology
Environmental psychology investigates the interplay between individuals and their physical environments. It explores how our surroundings impact our well-being, behavior, and attitudes.
23. Evolutionary Psychology
Evolutionary psychology examines how human behavior and mental processes have evolved to adapt to the challenges of our ancestral environment. It looks at the influence of evolution on contemporary behavior.
24. Experimental Analysis of Behavior
Experimental analysis of behavior is rooted in the principles of behaviorism. It involves conducting controlled experiments to understand how behavior is learned and influenced by environmental factors.
25. Filipino Psychology
Filipino psychology is a culturally specific field that focuses on the psychology of the Filipino people. It examines the unique psychological experiences and values of this culture.
26. Forensic Psychology
Forensic psychology combines psychology and the law. It applies psychological principles to the legal system, assisting in criminal investigations, profiling, and legal decision-making.
27. Health Psychology
Health psychology explores the psychological factors that influence health and well-being. It examines how behaviors, emotions, and social factors impact physical health and the development of diseases.
28. Humanistic Psychology
Humanistic psychology emphasizes the positive aspects of human nature, personal growth, and self-actualization. It focuses on individual potential and the pursuit of happiness.
29. Imaginal Psychology
Imaginal psychology examines the role of imagination and creativity in human experience. It explores how imaginative processes contribute to personal growth and well-being.
30. Indian Psychology
Indian psychology is a culturally specific field that seeks to understand the psychology of India. It explores the influence of Indian philosophy and traditions on psychological perspectives.
31. Indigenous Psychology
Indigenous psychology is rooted in the cultural beliefs and practices of indigenous peoples. It aims to understand the psychological aspects of diverse indigenous cultures and how their unique worldviews shape their psychology.
32. Individual Differences Psychology
Individual differences psychology focuses on the study of variations between individuals in traits, abilities, and behavior. It seeks to identify and explain the factors that make each person unique.
33. Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Industrial and organizational psychology, often abbreviated as I-O psychology, applies psychological principles to the workplace. It addresses topics such as employee motivation, job satisfaction, and organizational behavior.
34. International Psychology
International psychology explores the impact of culture and globalization on psychological processes. It examines cross-cultural interactions and their effects on individuals’ behavior and mental health.
35. Investigative Psychology
Investigative psychology combines psychology and criminology. It is focused on understanding criminal behavior and aiding in criminal investigations by profiling and analyzing patterns of criminal acts.
36. Legal Psychology
Legal psychology, also known as forensic psychology, bridges the gap between psychology and the legal system. It deals with issues such as witness testimony, jury decision-making, and the assessment of legal competence.
37. Mathematical Psychology
Mathematical psychology uses mathematical models and techniques to describe and explain psychological processes. It is particularly useful in the quantification and analysis of cognitive and behavioral data.
38. Media Psychology
Media psychology examines the impact of media on individuals and society. It explores the psychological effects of media content, media consumption, and the role of media in shaping public opinion.
39. Medical Psychology
Medical psychology focuses on the psychological aspects of health and illness. It helps individuals cope with medical conditions, manage stress, and make decisions related to their health.
40. Military Psychology
Military psychology applies psychological principles to military contexts. It addresses issues such as the mental well-being of soldiers, combat stress, and decision-making in high-stress situations.
41. Moral Psychology
Moral psychology explores the development of moral reasoning and decision-making. It delves into the psychological processes behind ethical judgments and behavior.
42. Music Psychology
Music psychology investigates the psychological aspects of music, including how it affects emotions, cognition, and behavior. It explores the cognitive and emotional responses to music.
43. Neuropsychology
Neuropsychology studies the relationship between the brain and behavior. It explores how brain damage or dysfunction can lead to changes in cognitive abilities and behavior.
44. Occupational Health Psychology
Occupational health psychology focuses on the psychological aspects of work and workplace safety. It addresses issues such as job stress, burnout, and employee well-being.
45. Parapsychology
Parapsychology explores phenomena beyond the scope of traditional psychology, such as extrasensory perception (ESP) and psychokinesis. It investigates claims of paranormal or psychic abilities.
46. Peace Psychology
Peace psychology seeks to understand the psychological factors that contribute to peace and conflict resolution. It explores strategies for promoting peace, resolving conflicts, and preventing violence.
47. Performance Psychology
Performance psychology focuses on enhancing human performance in various domains, including sports, the arts, and business. It delves into the psychological factors that drive excellence and peak performance.
48. Personality Psychology
Personality psychology explores the enduring traits and characteristics that make each individual unique. It investigates personality development, traits, and their influence on behavior and life choices. To learn more about personality, read these amazing personality psychology books.
49. Philosophy of Psychology
The philosophy of psychology is a field that delves into the fundamental philosophical questions about the nature of the mind, consciousness, and the foundations of psychological science.
50. Physiological Psychology
Physiological psychology investigates the relationship between the brain, the nervous system, and behavior. It explores how biological factors influence mental processes and behavior.
51. Police Psychology
Police psychology applies psychological principles to law enforcement and public safety. It addresses issues such as officer well-being, decision-making under stress, and crisis intervention.
52. Political Psychology
Political psychology examines the psychological factors that influence political behavior, including voting, public opinion, and the impact of political leaders and events on society.
53. Positive Psychology
Positive psychology is a highly popular type of psychology that focuses on human strengths, well-being, and happiness. It explores the factors that contribute to a fulfilling life and how to enhance psychological flourishing.
54. Pre- and Perinatal Psychology
Pre- and perinatal psychology explores the psychological experiences and influences on individuals during the prenatal and early postnatal stages. It examines how early experiences can shape later development.
55. Problem Solving
Problem-solving psychology explores the cognitive processes and strategies individuals use to solve complex problems. It is relevant in various domains, including education, business, and daily life. This type of psychology often focuses on critical thinking.
56. Psychoanalysis
Psychoanalysis is a well-known approach to understanding the unconscious mind and the dynamics of human behavior. This type of psychology explores how past experiences and inner conflicts influence our thoughts and actions.
57. Psychohistory
Psychohistory combines psychology and history to examine the psychological factors that influence historical events and the behavior of groups and societies.
58. Psycholinguistics
This type of psychology explores the relationship between language and the mind. It investigates language acquisition, language processing, and the role of language in cognition.
59. Psychology and Law
Psychology and law examine the intersection of psychological principles with the legal system. It addresses issues such as eyewitness testimony, the assessment of mental competence, and legal decision-making.
60. Psychology of Art
The type of psychology that explores the cognitive and emotional responses to artistic creations is known as Psychology of Art or Art Psychology. It examines how art impacts human perception, emotion, and expression.
61. Psychology of Eating Meat
The psychology of eating meat investigates the psychological factors that influence people’s choices, attitudes, and behaviors regarding meat consumption, including ethical concerns, cultural influences, and dietary choices.
62. Psychology of Religion
The psychology of religion explores the psychological aspects of religious beliefs, experiences, and practices. It delves into the impact of religion on mental health, spirituality, and well-being.
63. Psychometrics
Psychometrics is the field of psychology that focuses on the measurement of psychological attributes, such as intelligence, personality, and aptitude. It involves the development and validation of psychological tests and assessments. For instance, you can learn bout the best scales and tools for the assessment and diagnosis of ADHD form this article.
64. Psychonomics
Psychonomics combines psychology and economics to study decision-making processes and how people allocate their resources, including time and money.
65. Psycho-Oncology
Psycho-oncology is a not-so-popular type of psychology that focuses on the psychological aspects of cancer, including the emotional and social challenges faced by patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
66. Psychopathology
Psychopathology explores mental disorders, their causes, and the classification of abnormal behaviors. It plays a crucial role in understanding and treating psychological disorders.
67. Psychopharmacology
Psychopharmacology investigates the effects of drugs and medications on the mind and behavior. It is crucial in the field of psychiatry and the treatment of mental health conditions.
68. Psychophysics
Psychophysics is a lesser known type of psychology that explores the relationship between physical stimuli and the psychological experiences they generate. It investigates the perception of sensory information.
69. Psychophysiology
Psychophysiology examines the physiological processes related to psychological experiences, including the study of brain activity, heart rate, and other bodily responses in relation to emotions and behavior.
70. Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is the practice of using psychological principles and therapeutic techniques to help individuals cope with mental health issues, improve well-being, and address emotional challenges.
71. Quantitative Psychology
Quantitative psychology involves the development and application of statistical and mathematical methods to analyze and interpret psychological data.
72. Social Psychology
Social psychology is a major type of psychology that explores how social interactions and groups influence individual behavior, attitudes, and perceptions. It delves into topics such as conformity, persuasion, and prejudice.
73. Sports Psychology
Sports psychology focuses on the mental aspects of sports and athletic performance. It helps athletes enhance their mental toughness, motivation, and overall performance.
74. Systems Psychology
Systems psychology takes a holistic approach, considering how various psychological components interact as part of larger systems. It examines how individuals, groups, and organizations function within complex environments.
75. Theoretical Psychology
Theoretical psychology seeks to develop comprehensive theories that provide insights into various aspects of human behavior, cognition, and emotions.
76. Traffic Psychology
Traffic psychology explores the psychological factors influencing traffic behavior and road safety. It examines issues such as driver behavior, road rage, and the impact of traffic regulations.
77. Transpersonal Psychology
Transpersonal psychology delves into the spiritual and transcendent aspects of human experience. It explores topics like altered states of consciousness, mysticism, and personal growth.
78. Muslim Psychology
Muslim psychology is a culturally specific field that focuses on the psychological experiences and perspectives of individuals in Muslim communities. It addresses issues related to culture, religion, and mental health within the Muslim world.
79. Disaster Psychology:
Disaster psychology is a subfield of psychology that focuses on understanding and addressing the psychological impact of natural or man-made disasters. Psychologists in this field help individuals and communities cope with trauma, grief, and stress resulting from events such as earthquakes, hurricanes, terrorist attacks, or pandemics. They provide psychological first aid, crisis intervention, and long-term support to help people recover and build resilience in the face of adversity.
80. Geropsychology (Psychology of Aging):
Geropsychology is the study of the psychological aspects of aging and the well-being of older adults. This field examines issues related to cognitive decline, mental health, social relationships, and the challenges and opportunities that come with growing older. Geropsychologists work to improve the mental and emotional health of the elderly, often through therapy and counseling tailored to their unique needs.
81. Pediatric Psychology:
Pediatric psychology focuses on the emotional, behavioral, and developmental aspects of children and adolescents. These psychologists work with young patients and their families to address issues like childhood trauma, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, and chronic medical conditions. Pediatric psychologists often collaborate with healthcare providers to offer comprehensive care to children and ensure their overall well-being.
82. Rehabilitation Psychology:
Rehabilitation psychology is concerned with helping individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions lead fulfilling and independent lives. Psychologists in this field assess and address the psychological, social, and emotional challenges that people face during their rehabilitation journey. They work in healthcare settings, rehabilitation centers, and private practice to support clients in adapting to and thriving in their new circumstances.
83. School Psychology:
School psychology involves working within educational settings to help students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. This type of psychology assess and address issues such as learning disabilities, behavioral problems, and emotional well-being. They also collaborate with teachers, parents, and school administrators to create a positive and supportive learning environment for students.
84: Space Psychology:
Space psychology explores the psychological challenges and adaptations required for astronauts and space travelers. This field examines issues like isolation, confinement, stress, and the unique demands of space missions. Space psychologists provide support and develop interventions to enhance the mental well-being and performance of those in space.
85. Aviation Psychology:
Aviation psychology focuses on the psychological aspects of aviation, such as pilot training, human factors in aircraft design, and air traffic control. Psychologists in this field work to enhance safety, reduce human error, and improve the overall performance and well-being of those working in the aviation industry.
86. Freudian Psychology
Freudian Psychology, developed by Sigmund Freud, is a foundational school of thought in psychology that explores the influence of the unconscious mind and early childhood experiences on adult behavior. It introduces concepts like the id, ego, and superego, emphasizing the role of unresolved conflicts and repressed memories in shaping personality and psychological distress. Freudian psychology is known for its psychosexual development theory, which posits that individuals progress through stages of sexual development from infancy to adulthood. Despite criticism and limited empirical support, Freud’s work has left a lasting impact on psychology, particularly in the realm of psychoanalysis and the understanding of human behavior.
87. Behavioral Economics:
Behavioral economics is an interdisciplinary field that combines insights from psychology and economics to understand how individuals make decisions. It examines the cognitive biases and emotional factors that influence economic choices, challenging the traditional rational actor model. Behavioral economics has practical applications in areas like consumer behavior, finance, and public policy.
88. Neuromarketing:
Neuromarketing applies principles of neuroscience and psychology to understand consumer behavior and decision-making. It uses brain imaging and physiological measures to gain insights into how marketing stimuli and advertising affect the brain, helping businesses optimize their marketing strategies.
89. Telepsychology:
Telepsychology, also known as telehealth or online therapy, involves providing psychological services remotely through digital platforms. It offers a convenient and accessible way for individuals to receive therapy and counseling, making mental healthcare more available to a broader range of people.
90. Gestalt Psychology (Repetition):
Gestalt psychology focuses on how people perceive and understand the world by examining patterns, wholes, and the organization of sensory information. It emphasizes the role of perception and cognition in shaping our understanding of the environment.
91. Existential Psychology:
Existential psychology explores the philosophical and psychological aspects of human existence, including the search for meaning, freedom, and the confrontation with life’s inherent uncertainties. It delves into the experience of existential crises and the quest for personal authenticity and purpose.
92. Holistic Psychology:
Holistic psychology takes a comprehensive approach to mental well-being by considering the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. It emphasizes the importance of addressing all aspects of a person’s life to promote psychological health and overall well-being.
93. Jungian Psychology:
Jungian psychology, founded by Carl Jung, delves into the exploration of the unconscious mind, archetypes, and the individuation process. It places significance on understanding the deep layers of the psyche and the role of symbolism in personal growth and self-realization.
94. LGBTQ+ Psychology:
LGBTQ+ psychology is a specialized field that focuses on the unique psychological experiences, challenges, and needs of individuals within the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other non-heteronormative communities. It seeks to address the mental health disparities and promote well-being within these populations.
95. Multicultural Psychology:
Multicultural psychology examines how culture, ethnicity, and identity influence human behavior and mental health. It aims to enhance the understanding of cultural diversity and promote culturally sensitive approaches to psychology and therapy.
96. Prenatal Psychology:
Prenatal psychology explores the psychological experiences and influences on both expectant mothers and developing fetuses. It examines the emotional and environmental factors that can impact prenatal development and maternal well-being.
97. Addiction Psychology:
Addiction psychology is a specialized field that investigates the causes and consequences of substance abuse and behavioral addictions. It delves into the psychological, biological, and environmental factors contributing to addictive behaviors, while also addressing treatment and recovery through evidence-based therapies.
98. Qualitative Psychology:
Qualitative psychology is an approach that emphasizes understanding the subjective experiences and meanings individuals attach to their lives. It relies on in-depth interviews, observations, and content analysis to explore complex human phenomena. Researchers in this field seek to uncover rich, context-specific insights, providing a deep understanding of psychological processes, emotions, and perspectives that may not be fully captured by quantitative methods.
99. Culinary Psychology:
Culinary psychology investigates the psychological aspects of food, taste, and eating behavior. It explores how sensory experiences, cultural factors, and emotions influence our food preferences and choices.
100. Color Psychology:
Color psychology is a type of psychology that investigates the psychological impact of colors on human emotions, behavior, and decision-making. It explores how color choices in design, branding, and environments can influence mood and perception.
As we conclude this exploration of the numerous realms of psychology, it becomes evident that this discipline is a mosaic of understanding, compassion, and discovery. With each specialization offering a unique lens through which to view the human experience, psychology continues to unravel the mysteries of the mind, providing insights that touch every aspect of our lives. From the well-established to the emerging fields, psychology is a testament to the ceaseless quest to comprehend the complexities of human behavior and cognition.
