Is Psychology a Science?
Science can be defined as the systematic process of studying the environment and why certain things occur or behave the way they do (Silverman, 2013). The function of science is to develop logical theories to explain why and what transpires in the real world. According to Berezow (2012), the study of science involves creating a hypothesis for a certain phenomenon, thereafter testing it and evaluating it. Scientific studies do not base their findings on direct observations.
Psychology is a discipline that examines human and mental behaviors. Mental processes are thoughts, feelings, and intentions that are not visible to the human eye (Berezow, 2012). Psychologists tend to carry out research by gathering data rather than finding solutions to problems. Silverman (2013), states that there are three branches of study in psychology; research, applied, and clinical psychology. In the field of research psychology, psychologists gather information through observing, testing, and numbering to evaluate human and animal behaviors. Applied psychologists use psychological knowledge in an attempt to find solutions to various problems. Clinical psychologists are responsible for analyzing and treating individuals with serious mental and behavioral disorders.
Berezow (2012), argues that for any discipline to be termed as a science, it must contain the following elements. Must be clearly defined, quantifiable, testable, reproducible, and predictable. Human feelings like love and peace have different meanings in various cultures of the world. The field of psychology does not explain as to whether its focus is on human beings or animals (Silverman, 2013). Psychologists cannot use a microscope or ruler to measure a person’s feelings. Psychology cannot generate reproducible results when there is no element of clarity and quantity. It is impossible to predict future thoughts and motives of an individual. Psychology does not meet the above requirements, therefore, it can’t be considered as a science.
References:
Berezow, B. A. (2012, July). Why Psychology isn't Science. Retrieved from Los Angeles Times: http://articles.latimes.com/2012/jul/13/news/la-ol-blowback-pscyhology-science-20120713
Silverman, E. R. (2013). Is Psychology a Science. Skeptic Magazine, 17(1), …
