An experimental psychologist conducts research to understand psychological and behavioral issues in humans and animals. They design experiments, develop hypotheses, record materials and procedures, and publish their findings. A master’s degree in psychology is required, but a doctoral degree is needed for teaching at the university level.
An experimental psychologist specializes in research designed to lead to a better understanding of psychological and behavioral issues. The experiments that a person with this title performs are usually intended to provide information about the behavior of living beings. An experimental psychologist’s work is usually focused on learning about the psychology and behavior of humans, although he may also study animals as part of his research. Often, a person with this title will conduct research for an educational institution, research firm, or government organization. In some cases, however, this type of psychologist conducts research projects independently.
When a person works as an experimental psychologist, he uses his natural curiosity and research skills to design and conduct psychology experiments. Its aim is to better understand how the mind works and the reasons why animals and people behave the way they do. The results of their experiences can be important in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. Indeed, this type of research could also help reveal why people develop mental health conditions in the first place.
Despite the fact that an experimental psychologist generally works to increase understanding of the workings of the human mind and behavior, animals often play important roles in this type of psychology research. For example, a person with that title might conduct experiments involving monkeys to better understand motivation, not just in monkeys, but in humans as well. The research process usually involves creating experiments; developing a hypothesis, which is a prediction based on prior scientific knowledge; the careful recording of the materials and procedures used; and a detailed explanation of the results achieved with the project. When a research project results in important findings, an experimental psychologist will often publish their findings for other professionals to review and use.
Typically, a person needs at least a master’s degree in psychology to become an experimental psychologist, but an individual may need additional education to qualify for certain jobs in that field. For example, an individual who wants to work at a college or university will usually need a doctoral degree. This is particularly true for people who want to teach experimental psychology at the university level. An individual may do well to major in experimental psychology, but other types of psychology majors are also suitable. The person the person chooses should usually include instructions on research methods and research design.
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