Social Psychology
The document below underscores some key issues in psychology today. Psychology is a social science subdivided into many branches, each studying the human mind and behavior from different perspectives. Thus, while neuroscience focuses on study of the brain anatomy (or neuroanatomy), social psychologists look at the interpersonal and interactive psychology of social events and the emotions they entail. For instance, the constitution of the United States of America, secures, among other things, the right to pursue happiness for individuals. But what is happiness? Clearly, the subject matter has constantly been debated by philosophers and artists alike, but medicine has also its take on the subject. Indeed, the medical specialization related most closely to psychology is psychiatry. However, unlike psychologists, who are usually required to have earned a doctoral degree and are thus Doctors of Philosophy, psychiatrists are (medical) doctors in the sense that they are physicians. Consequently, psychologists are mental health professionals who treat conditions with psychotherapy, but are typically unlicensed to prescribe medication in most jurisdictions.
Along these lines, both the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) publish manuals designed to help diagnose mental illnesses and other psychological disorders for practitioners. Perhaps one of the better known such diseases is depression (depressive symptoms can manifest in a number of disturbances, including Major Depressive Disorder – MDD, Seasonal Affective Disorder – SAD, Dysthymic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder and Schizoaffective Disorder). But what causes depression? Academic and institutional research on the issue in abundant.
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| Social psychologists study interpersonal interactions and the social world. Image: Megan Jorgensen (Elena) |
Nevertheless, on the unscientific side, many people feel depressed or sad occasionally; it is the recurrence, persistence, intensity and duration of the symptomatology which may lead to a professional diagnosis. Clearly, if one suffers from disfunction, there are a variety of sources of help, including family doctors and general practitioners, psychiatrists, hospitals, clinics, group support centres and other therapeutic establishments.
Notwithstanding, several simple steps seem to contribute to good mood in general, in most individuals. To illustrate, a healthy lifestyle, eating a balanced diet and exercising, in addition to, a fulfilling vocational, as well as, a social and personal life, contribute to an end result of happiness. Also a healthy lifestyle, good nutrition and exercise are likely to contribute to both health and well-being. To illustrate, physical activity releases endorphins (the body’s natural feel good chemicals) and there appears to be a consensus in the academic literature on regular exercising health benefits. Further, a spirit free from either eating disorders (EDs) or other health concerns associated with obesity, seem to be good predictors of sustained contentment. Conversely, other factors, such as quitting smoking or extensive stress (due to even positive changes!) may negatively impact one’s disposition and mood.
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| Social competence is defined as the ability to get what one wants in relationships, while still maintaining positive relationships with others. Image: Megan Jorgensen (Elena) |
Additionally, people often turn to friendly and trusted others in times of trouble, but depression is different in that respect. For example, while having a reliable circle of close friends and a large network of acquaintances facilitates coveys social and emotional support from peers, persons with depression withdraw as a coping mechanism, which paradoxically, could then further exacerbate symptoms.
As an extroverted but disappointed loner once suggested – after unsuccessfully using the “How to pick up girls in bars?” tips from an attraction pick up artist – loneliness can be quite depressive. Although, social psychologists argue that loneliness and solitude are two different concepts, with only loneliness implying dissatisfaction with the state of being alone. Finally, this sums up the arguments hereby presented, showcasing some of the topics portrayed in psychology papers.
