What Is Interdisciplinary Psychology?

The study of psychology in relation to other aspects of human experience is known as interdisciplinary psychology. As the field of psychology matures, more researchers are realizing that psychological processes can cause or influence a wide range of diseases and human behaviors. Medical problems and chemical imbalances are also being discovered psychologists as potential causes or exacerbators of psychological problems. The majority of interdisciplinary psychologists want to know how mental processes affect and are affected biological processes.

Interdisciplinary psychologists usually combine psychological practices with cognitive science and biology research. Psychology is the study of emotions and behavior, as well as the factors that influence their development. Cognitive science is concerned with the development of the brain and how people learn, with a strong emphasis on brain biology. Biology examines the inner workings of the entire body, from large organ systems to the tiniest organelles found within each cell.

When these three disciplines are combined, professionals can treat patients holistically rather than focusing on just one aspect of them. Interdisciplinary psychology recognizes that no aspect of human health or experience can be considered in isolation from the others. A young man being treated for depression, for example, could be depressed as a result of a recently discovered learning disability. The psychologist’s role here is to not only figure out why the young man is depressed, but also to assist him in overcoming it. Cognitive science may be able to assist this young man in overcoming his disability and improving his mental health.

If the young man’s depression is caused an acute food allergy or another physical deficiency, biology may be required. The psychologist notices the young man’s distress and offers suggestions for how he can cope. Of course, overcoming a physical or mental disability may not completely heal the patient, but interdisciplinary psychology claims that the two are linked. If the young man does not feel normal, healthy, or at ease, he may be unable to overcome mental deficiencies, whether or not they are the result of physical issues.

To assist their patients, medical practitioners may be well-versed in interdisciplinary psychology. Those who are unable to function normally become frustrated, depressed, and occasionally listless. Through encouraging words and creative exercises, psychology aids these patients in avoiding a downward spiral. Patients who are in good mental health during their recovery are more likely to heal faster and more completely.