What is Psychology?
Psychology is a science branch that analyzes the human behavior and mental processes. It studies many factors such as personality traits, emotions, thoughts, perceptions, motivations and people's interactions with their environment. The main purpose of psychology is to understand people's emotions and thoughts and provide healing methods in this field when necessary.
Which Diseases Does the Psychology Department Treat?
The psychology department deals with many mental and emotional disorders. These disorders can affect the daily life quality and social relationships of people. Some of the diseases studied in the psychology department are:
- Anxiety Disorders
- Depression
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD)
- Personality Disorders (Borderline, Schizotypal etc.)
- Psychotic Disorders (Schizophrenia)
- Childhood and Adolescence Problems
- Exam Anxiety
- Internet and Screen Addiction
- Concentration Problems and Procrastinating Behaviors
- Eating Disorders (Anorexia neurosa, Bulimia)
- Impulse Control Disorders (Kleptomania, Trichotillomania)
- Social Phobia and Other Phobias
- Adjustment Disorders
- Chronic Fatigue and Chronic Pain
What are the Diagnostic and Test Methods Used in the Psychology Department?
Various diagnostic and testing methods are used in the psychology department. Psychologists resort to scientific methods to evaluate people's mental health and diagnose them correctly. Some sub-branches of psychology used during these evaluations are as follows:
Clinical Psychology
Clinical psychology is a branch of psychology that deals with the identification, evaluation and treatment of problems related to the mental and emotional health of individuals. Clinical psychologists working in this field perform the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of mental disorders such as anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder. At the same time, they help individuals cope with traumatic experiences, develop stress management and improve their quality of life. In clinical psychology, therapy methods are customized according to the specific needs of individuals, thus, more effective and individual-specific treatment plans are applied.
Developmental Psychology
Developmental psychology is a branch of science that studies how individuals develop in physical, cognitive, emotional and social areas throughout their entire lives, starting from birth. It focuses on the developmental changes encountered during childhood, adolescence, adulthood and old age. Developmental psychology plays a major role in identifying and resolving developmental problems, learning difficulties, and behavioral disorders, especially in children and adolescents. Studies in this field contributes to individuals' healthy development process.
Counseling Psychology
Counseling psychology is a sub-branch of psychology that helps individuals find solutions to the problems they encounter in daily life. It studies on issues related to life events, work life, family problems, relationships and individual development. Issues such as marriage problems and communication problems in relationships are one of the main study areas of counseling psychology. Counseling psychologists offer support to increase individuals' ability to cope with stress and allow them to gain self-confidence.
Social Psychology
Social psychology is a branch of science that studies the behavior of individuals in society and their interactions with others. Social psychologists investigate the relationships of individuals with other people, the processes of inclusion in groups, group dynamics and social influences. Social psychology also studies on topics such as prejudice, discrimination, adaptation, social pressure and leadership. This field offers a wide range of knowledge aimed at understanding how individuals behave in social settings and the motivations behind these behaviors.
Cognitive Psychology
Cognitive psychology is a sub-branch of psychology that studies the functioning of mental processes. This field focuses on cognitive processes such as thinking, learning, memory, perception and decision-making. Cognitive psychologists research how people process information, keep it in their memories, and learn. Understanding the functioning of cognitive processes plays an important role in the treatment of disorders such as learning disorders and memory problems. The findings of cognitive psychology contribute to the development of educational methods and the understanding of human behavior.
Educational Psychology
Educational psychology is a branch of psychology that studies the learning and teaching processes of individuals in the educational process. Educational psychologists try to understand the learning capabilities and motivations of students and conduct research aimed at developing effective teaching methods. The studies conducted in this field are aimed at better supporting individuals with special educational needs and helping teachers understand student behavior. Educational psychology offers important information to enable individuals to be more successful in their educational processes.
Neuropsychology
Neuropsychology is a sub-branch of psychology that studies the effects of the brain and nervous system on human behavior. Neuropsychologists research behavioral changes related to brain injuries, traumatic brain injuries, dementia and other neurological disorders. Studies conducted in this field play a critical role in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders occurring in cognitive functions of individuals. Neuropsychology offers more effective treatment methods to patients by understanding the relationship between the brain and mental processes.
Health Psychology
Health psychology is a field that studies the psychological factors that affect the health state of individuals. Health psychologists provide support to individuals on issues such as coping with chronic diseases, developing a healthy lifestyle, and coping with stress. For example, health psychology support in individuals with chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart diseases helps to cope with these diseases more effectively. Health psychology makes important contributions to individuals to protect their physical and mental health.
Forensic Psychology
Forensic psychology is a field that carries out psychological evaluation of individuals within the legal and justice system. Forensic psychologists assess the mental state of criminals, can testify and offer various psychological analyses during the trial process. Especially issues such as child abuse, domestic violence and criminal profiling are among the focal points of forensic psychology. Forensic psychology contributes to the achievement of justice by providing psychological information and assessments to the legal system.
Sports Psychology
Sports Psychology is a branch of science that studies the psychological factors that affect the performance of athletes. Sports psychologists carry out studies aimed at increasing athletes' motivation, stress management skills and their capacity to focus on the goal. The studies conducted in this field help athletes to develop mental endurance and self-confidence in addition to their physical performances. Sports psychology provides the necessary psychological support for athletes to maximize their performance and positively affects their performance.
What are the Treatment Methods Performed in the Psychology Department?
The treatment methods performed in the department of psychology may differ according to the needs of the individual. Psychotherapy methods can be applied with medication therapy or independently. Some of these treatment methods are as follows:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
It allows individuals to develop healthier ways of thinking by focusing on changing negative thought patterns.
Psychodynamic Therapy
It is a therapy method aimed at understanding the impact of past experiences on current problems.
Behavioral Therapy
It provides individuals to adopt healthier behavior patterns by changing their negative behaviors.
Holistic Therapy
It deals with all aspects of the individual by integrating different therapy methods.
Schema Therapy
It helps individuals to change negative schemas from past experiences.
Art and Music Therapies
It allows individuals to express their feelings and relax through art and music.
Medication Therapy (Cooperation with Psychiatry)
Medication treatment for psychiatric disorders can be applied in cooperation with psychiatrists.
In Which Cases Should Psychological Support Be Sought?
The following cases are the main symptoms that may need psychological support:
- Long-term anxiety and excessive stress
- Symptoms of depression
- Constant problems in relationships
- Impulse control difficulties (For example, hair pulling - Trichotillomania)
- Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder
- Social inhibition and social phobia
- Complaints of chronic pain and fatigue
- Nutritional disorders and eating disorders
- Adjustment problems and obsessions
Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology
What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
Psychologists deal with evaluating the emotional and mental processes of individuals and applying psychotherapy, while psychiatrists can become medical doctors and prescribe medication.
How long does psychotherapy take?
The duration of psychotherapy varies depending on the individual's needs; short-term therapies may last several sessions, while long-term therapies may last longer.
How is the psychological evaluation process?
The psychological evaluation process begins with a thorough examination of the individual's mental and emotional state and usually includes testing and interview methods.
Can psychologists prescribe medication?
No, the authority to prescribe medications belongs only to psychiatrists. However, psychologists can cooperate with a psychiatrist if necessary.
Is psychological support service available for children and adolescents?
Yes, special support services are offered for children and adolescents in the fields of developmental psychology and child psychology.
In which cases is psychological treatment terminated?
Treatment can be terminated when the individual has reached their goals or when a significant improvement has been observed in their symptoms.