Developmental Psychologist

What do Scientists and Doctors really know about humans? The list of answers grows each year as Developmental Psychologists and other professionals continue to study human behavior, thoughts, beliefs, actions, abilities, morals, and intellect. In fact, Developmental Psychologists not only research the topic, but also diagnose developmental issues in patients and teach others about the subject.

As a Developmental Psychologist, you have three main areas of focus: research, teaching, and therapy. The research portion of the job allows you to hit the lab with live subjects. You ask questions, hand out surveys, observe behavior, research data, and record everything. When you make a conclusion, you then get it published for the rest of the scientific community to consider.

The Teacher part of being a Developmental Psychologist might see you in a college classroom, or maybe even balancing being a Developmental Psychology Professor with being a researcher. Whatever the grade level, you teach students the theories, research, and facts about human development, from birth to death.

If you choose to use your understanding of human development for therapy, you could specialize in one age group, such as geriatrics, teens, or children. Or, you could assess the mental, emotional, and physical state of patients through a government-sponsored program, private practice, or hospital. Regardless of where you diagnose and treat patients, you help them, their families, and society better understand how we change, grow, and develop as we age.