Psychology Essay Topics

Betty P.

Get Inspired with Over 200 Psychology Essay Topics and Writing Tips

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Published on: May 2, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

psychology essay topics

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Are you struggling to come up with interesting and unique psychology essay topics? Do you find it challenging to write a compelling psychology essay that stands out from the rest?

Psychology is a fascinating subject. However, selecting a topic that is both engaging and informative can be a daunting task.

But fear not!

This blog provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of psychology essay topics. From general psychology topics to specific and interesting areas of research, we have got you covered. Additionally, we offer tips to help you write a successful essay, from choosing a topic to editing your final draft.

By the end of it, you will be able to write a standout psychology essay that fully showcases your understanding.

Let's dive in!

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Psychology Research Topics For High School Students

Here is a persuasive essay topics list to get you started:

  • The influence of social media on mental health
  • The psychology of dreams and their interpretations
  • Effects of stress on academic performance
  • Does childhood trauma impact mental health in adulthood, and if so, how?
  • How does meditation impact the brain and promote well-being?
  • Why do we make the choices we do, and how can we make better decisions?
  • How does spending time in nature impact mental health and well-being?
  • How does perception affect our interpretation of reality, and can it be changed
  • The power of music on human emotions and behavior
  • The relationship between exercise and mental health

 Psychology Paper Topics For College Students

  • The psychology of addiction and effective treatments.
  • The impact of childhood experiences on adult mental health.
  • The psychology of prejudice and how to overcome biases.
  • The role of emotions in decision-making and behavior.
  • The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function and well-being.
  • Effective leadership traits and development.
  • The psychology of procrastination: Why we do it and how to overcome it.
  • The impact of social support on mental health.
  • The effects of mindfulness on stress and anxiety.
  • The psychology of motivation: What drives our behavior and how to stay motivated.

Research Topics In Psychology For University Students

  • The effects of social media on self-esteem and body image.
  • The impact of childhood trauma on brain development and function.
  • The psychology of happiness: What makes us happy and how can we cultivate it?
  • The role of genetics in mental health disorders and treatment implications.
  • How does social media affect self-esteem and body image?
  • What is the impact of childhood trauma on brain development and function?
  • What makes us happy and how can we cultivate happiness?
  • The psychology of mindfulness: Benefits and applications for well-being.
  • The impact of cultural differences on cognitive processes and behavior.
  • What are the dynamics of attraction, attachment, and relationships in the psychology of love?

Social Psychology Essay Topics

  • How do social roles and expectations affect behavior?
  • What is the role of social identity in intergroup relations?
  • How do attitudes and persuasion shape behavior?
  • What are the psychological factors that influence conformity?
  • What is the impact of social comparison on self-esteem?
  • The influence of culture on social behavior
  • The role of empathy in social interactions
  • The impact of social exclusion on mental health
  • The effects of social comparison on body image
  • The psychology of altruism and helping behavior

Forensic Psychology Essay Topics

  • How can forensic psychology contribute to criminal profiling?
  • What is the impact of psychological factors on criminal behavior?
  • How do juries make decisions in criminal cases, and what role does psychology play?
  • What is the impact of false confessions on the criminal justice system?
  • How can forensic psychologists help prevent and treat juvenile delinquency?
  • The psychology of criminal behavior and decision-making
  • The use of psychological assessment in criminal trials
  • The role of media in shaping public perceptions of crime
  • The impact of trauma on criminal behavior
  • The psychology of witness testimony

Criminal Psychology Essay Topics

  • How do psychological factors contribute to the development of criminal behavior?
  • What is the impact of childhood experiences on criminal behavior?
  • How can criminal psychology contribute to the prevention and treatment of criminal behavior?
  • What is the relationship between mental health and criminal behavior?
  • How can criminal profiling be used to aid criminal investigations?
  • The psychology of white-collar crime
  • The use of forensic psychology in criminal investigations
  • The impact of incarceration on mental health
  • The effectiveness of rehabilitation programs for offenders
  • The psychology of recidivism

Cognitive Psychology Essay Topics

  • How do cognitive processes shape our perceptions and decisions?
  • What are the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive processes such as attention and memory?
  • How do emotions and motivation affect cognitive processing?
  • What is the relationship between language and thought?
  • What is the impact of cognitive biases on decision-making?
  • The role of cognitive development in learning and education
  • The impact of technology on cognitive processing
  • The psychology of creativity and problem-solving
  • The effects of sleep on cognitive function
  • The psychology of expertise and skill acquisition

Developmental Psychology Essay Topics

  • How do genetics and the environment interact to shape development?
  • What are the stages of cognitive and emotional development in childhood and adolescence?
  • What is the impact of parenting styles on child development?
  • How do cultural differences impact child development?
  • What are the effects of early adversity on later development?
  • The psychology of attachment and bonding
  • The impact of technology on child development
  • The effects of divorce and separation on child development
  • The psychology of adolescent identity development
  • The role of play in child development

Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

  • The impact of childhood trauma on the development of dissociative disorders
  • The role of genetics in the development of schizophrenia
  • The link between eating disorders and body image dissatisfaction
  • The impact of addiction on mental health
  • The effectiveness of psychotherapy for treating personality disorders
  • The relationship between anxiety and depression in bipolar disorder
  • The impact of trauma on the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating phobias
  • The impact of culture on the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based therapies for treating anxiety and depression

Child Psychology Essay Topics

  • The impact of attachment styles on child development
  • The role of play therapy in treating childhood trauma
  • The impact of parenting styles on adolescent mental health
  • The role of technology in children's social and emotional development
  • The impact of peer relationships on child development
  • The effectiveness of early intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder
  • The impact of divorce on child development
  • The role of schools in supporting children's mental health
  • The impact of childhood bullying on mental health in adolescence and adulthood
  • The effectiveness of family therapy in treating childhood anxiety and depression

Sports Psychology Essay Topics

  • The role of mental toughness in athletic performance
  • The impact of anxiety on sports performance
  • The relationship between goal setting and athletic success
  • The impact of visualization techniques on sports performance
  • The role of self-talk in athletic performance
  • The impact of team cohesion on athletic performance
  • The relationship between personality traits and sports performance
  • The impact of pre-performance routines on sports performance
  • The role of coaching in supporting athletes' mental health
  • The effectiveness of psychological skills training in improving athletic performance

Argumentative Psychology essay topics

  • Is intelligence innate or acquired?
  • Should psychotherapy be used as a first-line treatment for mental illness?
  • Is the use of medication in treating mental illness over-prescribed?
  • Is social media use linked to increased rates of anxiety and depression?
  • Is addiction a disease or a choice?
  • Should personality disorders be treated differently than other mental illnesses?
  • Is the use of restraints ethical in mental health treatment?
  • Is it ethical to use animals in psychological research?
  • Should parents be held responsible for their children's mental health?
  • Is there a link between childhood trauma and criminal behavior?

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Descriptive Psychology Essay Topics

  • The history and evolution of psychoanalytic theory
  • The role of culture in shaping our understanding of mental illness
  • The impact of attachment theory on contemporary psychology
  • The development of cognitive psychology as a discipline
  • The role of social psychology in understanding human behavior
  • The impact of behaviorism on modern psychology
  • The role of neuroscience in understanding mental illness
  • The development of positive psychology as a field
  • The impact of feminist psychology on contemporary practice
  • The role of evolutionary psychology in understanding human behavior

Biological Psychology Essay Topics

  • The role of genetics in addiction and substance abuse
  • The impact of hormonal changes on mood disorders
  • Neural mechanisms underlying decision making
  • The effect of sleep deprivation on brain function
  • The link between brain development and mental health disorders
  • The role of neurotransmitters in regulating emotions and behavior
  • The impact of stress on the immune system
  • The relationship between diet and brain function
  • The biological basis of schizophrenia
  • The role of epigenetics in mental health disorders

Controversial Psychology Essay Topics

  • The Ethics of using placebos in clinical trials
  • The Validity of repressed memories in Therapy
  • The controversy surrounding conversion therapy
  • The debate over the existence of multiple personality disorder
  • The controversy surrounding the use of medication to treat ADHD
  • The ethics of using animals in psychological research
  • The controversy surrounding the validity of personality tests
  • The debate over the use of cognitive enhancement drugs
  • The controversy surrounding the diagnosis of borderline personality disorder
  • The debate over the use of hypnosis in therapy

Cultural Psychology Essay Topics

  • The impact of cultural values on mental health treatment
  • Cross-cultural differences in emotion regulation
  • The role of cultural norms in shaping attitudes towards mental health disorders
  • The impact of acculturation on mental health
  • The role of cultural values in shaping parenting styles
  • Cross-cultural differences in attachment styles
  • The influence of culture on body image and eating disorders
  • The impact of cultural values on the experience of depression
  • The role of culture in shaping perceptions of happiness
  • The impact of cultural diversity on group dynamics

Good Psychology Essay Topics

  • The importance of social support for mental health
  • The benefits of mindfulness meditation for stress reduction
  • The role of exercise in improving mental health
  • The impact of gratitude on well-being
  • The role of humor in coping with stress
  • The benefits of nature exposure for mental health
  • The impact of social media on mental health and well-being
  • The benefits of expressive writing for emotional processing
  • The role of positive self-talk in building resilience
  • The impact of volunteering on mental health and well-being

Exciting Psychology Essay Topics

  • The psychology of thrill-seeking behavior
  • The impact of virtual reality on behavior and cognition
  • The relationship between music and mood
  • The psychology of conspiracy theories
  • The impact of social comparison on self-esteem
  • The psychology of persuasion and influence
  • The role of culture in shaping perceptions of beauty
  • The psychology of color and its effects on behavior
  • The impact of humor on creativity and problem-solving
  • The psychology of flow and peak performance

Psychology Essay Topics on Dreams

  • Why do we dream? The scientific and psychological explanations.
  • Can we control our dreams? The effectiveness and limitations of lucid dreaming.
  • The interpretation of dreams: Freudian theory vs. modern approaches.
  • The role of dreams in problem-solving and creativity.
  • How dreams impact our mental health and well-being.
  • The use of dream analysis in therapy: Benefits and limitations.
  • Nightmares: Causes, effects, and treatments.
  • The cultural significance of dreams and dream interpretation.
  • Sleep disorders and their impact on dreaming.
  • The ethical considerations of using dream manipulation for personal gain.

Psychology-Related Topics from Other Subjects

  • The intersection of psychology and neuroscience
  • The relationship between psychology and economics
  • The psychology of decision making in politics
  • The psychology of leadership and organizational behavior
  • The impact of technology on social psychology
  • The psychology of marketing and consumer behavior
  • The relationship between psychology and law
  • The psychology of education and learning
  • The impact of environmental factors on behavior
  • The psychology of creativity and innovation

 Psychology Paper Topics for Any Assignment

  • The influence of video games on cognitive development
  • A case study analysis of borderline personality disorder
  • The role of cognitive psychology in treating depression
  • Historical perspectives on the evolution of cognitive psychology
  • Analyzing the impact of social media on mental health
  • An exploration of the psychology behind addiction
  • A comparative analysis of Freudian and Jungian theories of personality
  • Investigating the effects of mindfulness on anxiety disorders
  • The role of positive psychology in promoting well-being
  • A case study on the effects of childhood trauma on adult mental health
  • Examining the link between physical health and mental health
  • An overview of various psychological disorders and their treatment options
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety
  • Analyzing the use of art therapy in treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of culture on mental health and well-being

How To Choose A Psychology Topic?

Choosing a psychology topic can seem daunting, but there are some helpful steps you can take to make the process easier. 

Here are some tips to consider:

Identify Your Interests

Start by considering what topics in psychology interest you the most. Are you fascinated by abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, or social psychology? 

By choosing a topic that you are interested in, you are more likely to be motivated to research and write about it.

Consider The Assignment Requirements

If you are choosing a topic for a specific assignment, make sure to read the instructions and guidelines carefully. Consider the length of the assignment, the required sources, and any other specific instructions that the professor may have provided.

Do Some Preliminary Research

Once you have identified your interests and considered the assignment requirements, start doing some preliminary research. Look for articles, books, and other resources on your topic to get a sense of what has already been written about it and to help refine your focus.

Narrow Down Your Topic

After doing some preliminary research, you may need to narrow down your topic. Try to focus on a specific aspect of the broader topic that you are interested in. This will help you to stay focused and write a more cohesive and effective paper.

By following these steps, you can choose a psychology topic that is interesting, manageable and meets the requirements of your assignment.

 Tips To Write a Compelling Psychology Essay

Writing a good psychology essay requires attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear writing. Here are some tips to help you write a great psychology essay:

  • Understand The Essay Prompt

Make sure you fully understand the prompt before you start writing. Identify the key terms and concepts and make sure you have a clear understanding of what is being asked of you.

  • Conduct Thorough Research

Conduct thorough research using reliable sources such as academic journals, books, and reputable websites. Be sure to take detailed notes and keep track of your sources.

  • Organize Your Thoughts

Organize your thoughts and ideas before you start the writing process. Create an outline or a mind map to help you structure your essay and ensure your ideas flow logically.

  • Use Clear, Concise Language

Use clear, concise language to convey your ideas. Avoid using jargon or technical terms unless necessary, and make sure your sentences are well-structured and easy to understand.

  • Support Your Arguments

Use evidence to support your arguments and claims. This could include citing research studies or other sources to back up your points.

  • Edit and Proofread

Edit and proofread your psychology research paper to eliminate errors and ensure your writing is polished and professional. Check for grammar and spelling mistakes, and make sure your formatting and referencing are consistent and accurate.

By following these tips, you can write a compelling psychology essay that effectively communicates your ideas and arguments.

In conclusion, choosing a psychology essay topic can be a daunting task. But with the right approach, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. 

Consider your interests, current events, and the audience when selecting a topic. Be sure to conduct thorough research and organize your ideas before writing. 

Additionally, keep in mind the tips for writing a compelling essay and crafting a strong thesis statement.

At CollegeEssay.org, we understand that any psychology course can be challenging, especially when you have to write an essay about it.

That's why we offer top essay writing service to help you score good grades.

Our essay writer meets all requirements and exceeds expectations. 

Visit CollegeEssay.org to learn more about our psychology essay writing service and how we can assist you in achieving academic success.

Betty P. (Literature)

Betty is a freelance writer and researcher. She has a Masters in literature and enjoys providing writing services to her clients. Betty is an avid reader and loves learning new things. She has provided writing services to clients from all academic levels and related academic fields.

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psychology 101 essay topics

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105 Psychology Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Psychology is a fascinating subject that offers a wide range of topics for research and exploration. Whether you are a student looking for essay ideas or a psychologist looking for inspiration for your next study, there are endless possibilities in the field of psychology. Here are 105 psychology essay topic ideas and examples to get you started:

  • The impact of social media on mental health
  • The psychology of addiction and substance abuse
  • The role of genetics in personality development
  • The effects of childhood trauma on adult mental health
  • The psychology of decision-making and problem-solving
  • The relationship between stress and physical health
  • The psychology of prejudice and discrimination
  • The impact of technology on cognitive development
  • The psychology of happiness and well-being
  • The role of culture in shaping personality
  • The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function
  • The psychology of love and relationships
  • The relationship between personality and career choice
  • The psychology of motivation and goal-setting
  • The impact of childhood attachment styles on adult relationships
  • The psychology of eating disorders and body image
  • The role of gender in shaping identity and behavior
  • The effects of social isolation on mental health
  • The psychology of phobias and anxiety disorders
  • The relationship between personality and academic achievement
  • The impact of mindfulness and meditation on mental health
  • The psychology of memory and forgetting
  • The role of emotions in decision-making
  • The effects of music on mood and emotion
  • The psychology of leadership and influence
  • The relationship between personality and physical health
  • The impact of exercise on mental health
  • The psychology of creativity and innovation
  • The effects of bullying on mental health
  • The role of self-esteem in psychological well-being
  • The psychology of forgiveness and reconciliation
  • The relationship between personality and communication style
  • The impact of social support on mental health
  • The psychology of procrastination and time management
  • The effects of trauma on memory and cognition
  • The role of self-control in achieving goals
  • The psychology of persuasion and advertising
  • The relationship between personality and coping strategies
  • The impact of social comparison on self-esteem
  • The psychology of decision-making under uncertainty
  • The effects of technology on attention and focus
  • The role of empathy in building relationships
  • The psychology of resilience and mental toughness
  • The relationship between personality and risk-taking behavior
  • The impact of social media on body image and self-esteem
  • The psychology of group dynamics and teamwork
  • The effects of trauma on brain development
  • The role of mindfulness in stress management
  • The psychology of addiction recovery and relapse prevention
  • The relationship between personality and leadership style
  • The impact of exercise on cognitive function
  • The psychology of motivation and goal achievement
  • The effects of sleep on memory consolidation
  • The psychology of creativity and problem-solving
  • The relationship between personality and job satisfaction
  • The psychology of persuasion and influence
  • The effects of social comparison on self-esteem

These are just a few examples of the many psychology essay topics that you can explore. Whether you are interested in cognitive psychology, social psychology, or clinical psychology, there is a wealth of research and information to delve into. So pick a topic that interests you, conduct some research, and start writing your next psychology essay!

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Explore Psychology

50+ Topics for Psychology Research Papers

Categories Psychology Education

psychology 101 essay topics

If you have ever had to write a paper for one of your psychology classes, then you probably know that choosing psychology paper topics can sometimes be tricky. Fortunately, there are plenty of great topics for psychology research papers to help you finish your assignment.

Keep reading to learn more about how to find topics for psychology research papers and find inspiration to help you get started.

Table of Contents

How to Choose Topics for Psychology Research Papers

If you are going to write a psychology paper, the first thing you need to do is pick a good topic. This is often easier said than done.

In some cases, your instructor might assign you topics for psychology research papers, or at least narrow your range of options by providing a general subject area on which to focus your paper.

But in many cases, choosing the topic of your psychology paper is entirely up to you—and that’s where things can get tricky. How do you choose a great topic? What if you pick something too specific and struggle to find sources? Or what if you go too broad and end up biting off more than you can chew?

Following a few simple steps can make the topic selection process a lot easier.

Choose a General Subject

Part of what makes picking a topic for a psychology paper so difficult is how overwhelmed you are by the information you feel. Make it easier on yourself by restricting your options to at least a general topic area.

Narrow Down to a More Specific Topic

Once you’ve chosen a general area, you can then narrow topics for psychology research papers down to something much more specific and manageable.

For example, you might start by deciding that you want to write your paper on a topic within a specific branch of psychology . From there you might further narrow your focus down to a much narrower subject area within that branch

So, imagine that you’re writing a psychology research paper in your general psychology course. Your instructor has given you free rein to select any topic you please, so you begin by deciding to write your paper on a social psychology topic.

Now that you have a general idea, you drill down further and decide to research and write your paper on how prejudice forms and ways to minimize it.

General Topics for Psychology Research Papers

Because general psychology classes cover such a wide range of topics, you have a very large selection of subject ideas to choose from. Start by choosing a general topic, and then narrow your focus down so that you can fully cover the subject.

Some ideas include:

  • An issue paper:  Tackle one of the current issues in psychology, such as parity in mental health care or involving psychologists in military interrogations.
  • Profile a famous psychologist:  Select a well-known  psychologist  and then write a profile exploring his or her life, theories, and career.
  • Explore a well-known psychology experiment:  Write a paper on a classic psychology study, such as the Milgram Obedience Experiment or the Stanford Prison Experiment.
  • Write about a topic within personality psychology:   Personality psychology focuses on the traits and dispositions that contribute to overall personality. This is one of the largest topics within psychology so there are plenty of fascinating research topics from which to choose. Some specific topics that might interest you include whether personality can change, different theories of personality development and the  Big Five theory of personality.

Specific Topics for Psychology Research Papers

You might also want to choose topics for psychology research papers that are related to a specific branch of psychology. Some options that you might consider include:

Clinical Psychology

  • How effective is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for treating specific phobias?
  • What is the relationship between childhood trauma and borderline personality disorder?
  • How do medication and psychotherapy compare in the treatment of depression?
  • How does social media affect teen mental health?

Developmental Psychology

  • How do parenting styles influence child development?
  • What are the long-term effects of early childhood education?
  • What role does play have in cognitive development?
  • What effect does having siblings have on developmental outcomes?

Cognitive Psychology

  • How does sleep deprivation influence the memory consolidation process?
  • What impact does aging have on cognitive functioning?
  • How does exercise impact working memory?
  • Does learning a second language have cognitive benefits?

Social Psychology

  • What effect does discrimination have on self-esteem?
  • How does self-presentation online differ from self-presentation in real-world settings?
  • How do leadership styles influence productivity in groups?

Okay, let’s just imagine that you’re having a bad case of writer’s block. You understand the basic approach for picking a good topic, but nothing seems to be catching your interest. You’re looking for some more inspiration to get you started.

Here are just a few great topics for psychology papers that you might want to consider:

Controversial Topics for Psychology Research Papers

The history of psychology is not always positive, and if you enjoy writing about controversial topics, psychology’s history is rich with material.

  • The use of lobotomies to treat mental illness
  • The history of mental asylums in the United States
  • The use and effects of electroconvulsive therapy
  • Conversion therapy and its damaging effects
  • Attachment therapy
  • Controversial experiments such as Milgram’s obedience experiment or Zimbardo’s Stanford Prison experiment
  • The debate over the nature of intelligence
  • The impact of the eugenics movement on psychology
  • Controversies surrounding the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)

Disorder Topics for Psychology Research Papers

Writing about the history, prevalence, and treatment of a specific mental condition can be an interesting topic for a psychology paper. Some options you might consider include:

  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Borderline personality disorder
  • Schizophrenia
  • Substance abuse and addictions
  • Developmental disorders

Other Great Topics for Psychology Research Papers

Here is a sampling of topics that you might consider:

  • How attitudes form
  • How bullying affects children
  • How people use nonverbal communication
  • Factors that can affect prenatal development
  • How media violence influences children’s behavior
  • How parenting styles influence child development
  • How does intrinsic motivation influence learning
  • How does mindset impact academic achievement
  • What factors influence IQ and is it possible to increase IQ
  • Factors that influence self-actualization
  • Is Maslow’s hierarchy of needs still relevant today
  • How does perfectionism impact mental well-being
  • Different theories of personality
  • How different leadership styles influence the success of groups
  • Profile a specific career in psychology

As you can see, your options for psychology paper topics are really only limited by your own imagination (and the specific guidelines issued by your instructor, of course). Spend some time thinking about topics that really interest you, then narrow your focus to hone in on a specific idea.

Finally, always be sure to run your chosen topic by your instructor. He or she may be able to offer suggestions that can help you during your research and make it much easier to write an outstanding psychology paper.

psychology 101 essay topics

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  • A Research Guide
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120 Psychology Essay Topics

How to choose a topic for your psychology essay:, psychology argumentative essay topics:.

  • The impact of social media on mental health
  • The role of genetics in determining personality traits
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety disorders
  • The influence of childhood experiences on adult mental health
  • The ethical implications of using animals in psychological research
  • The relationship between sleep deprivation and cognitive functioning
  • The effects of violent video games on aggression in children
  • The role of nature versus nurture in shaping human behavior
  • The impact of divorce on children’s psychological well-being
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness meditation in reducing stress and anxiety
  • The influence of advertising on body image and self-esteem
  • The psychological effects of long-term solitary confinement
  • The role of attachment styles in romantic relationships
  • The impact of social isolation on mental health
  • The effectiveness of positive psychology interventions in promoting happiness and well-being

Psychology Persuasive Essay Topics:

  • The influence of parenting styles on child development
  • The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and adult mental health disorders
  • The benefits of mindfulness meditation in reducing stress and anxiety
  • The impact of video games on aggression and violent behavior
  • The influence of advertising on consumer behavior and decision-making
  • The impact of social isolation on mental health and well-being
  • The effectiveness of positive reinforcement in behavior modification
  • The role of gender stereotypes in shaping career choices and opportunities

Psychology Compare and Contrast Essay Topics:

  • Nature vs Nurture: Examining the influence of genetics and environment on personality development
  • Classical Conditioning vs Operant Conditioning: Comparing the principles and applications of these two learning theories
  • Freudian Psychoanalysis vs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Contrasting the approaches and effectiveness of these two therapeutic techniques
  • Social Psychology vs Cross-Cultural Psychology: Exploring how culture influences social behavior and cognition
  • Implicit vs Explicit Memory: Analyzing the differences and similarities between these two types of memory processes
  • Psychodynamic vs Humanistic Perspectives: Comparing the theories of Sigmund Freud and Carl Rogers on personality and therapy
  • Developmental Psychology vs Educational Psychology: Examining the similarities and differences in studying human development and learning
  • Positive Psychology vs Abnormal Psychology: Contrasting the focus on well-being and mental disorders in these two branches of psychology
  • Nature of Dreams vs Nature of Daydreaming: Comparing the functions and characteristics of these two types of mental experiences
  • Social Influence vs Individual Differences: Analyzing how conformity and personality traits affect behavior in social situations
  • Emotional Intelligence vs IQ: Contrasting the concepts and measurement of emotional intelligence and intellectual intelligence
  • Psychopathy vs Antisocial Personality Disorder: Examining the similarities and differences between these two personality disorders
  • Classical vs Modern Approaches to Psychology: Comparing the historical perspectives and current trends in the field of psychology
  • Gender Differences in Cognitive Abilities vs Gender Similarities: Analyzing the research on cognitive differences and similarities between males and females
  • Nature of Addiction vs Nature of Compulsion: Contrasting the psychological mechanisms and treatment approaches for addiction and compulsive behaviors

Psychology Informative Essay Topics:

  • The impact of childhood trauma on adult mental health
  • The effects of social media on self-esteem and body image
  • The psychology behind addiction and its treatment
  • The relationship between stress and physical health
  • The psychology of decision-making and its biases
  • The role of nature vs nurture in shaping human behavior
  • The psychology of attraction and romantic relationships
  • The impact of technology on cognitive abilities and attention span
  • The psychology of motivation and goal-setting
  • The effects of bullying on mental health and well-being
  • The psychology of memory and its reliability
  • The role of therapy and counseling in improving mental health

Psychology Cause Effect Essay Topics:

  • The effects of social media on body image dissatisfaction
  • The relationship between parental divorce and academic performance in children
  • The influence of video games on aggressive behavior in adolescents
  • The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive functioning
  • The impact of bullying on the psychological well-being of victims
  • The effects of peer pressure on substance abuse among teenagers
  • The influence of early attachment styles on adult romantic relationships
  • The effects of positive reinforcement on behavior modification
  • The relationship between childhood abuse and the development of personality disorders
  • The influence of cultural factors on the perception of beauty standards
  • The effects of parental neglect on emotional intelligence in children
  • The impact of unemployment on mental health and well-being

Psychology Narrative Essay Topics:

  • The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Mental Health
  • Overcoming Social Anxiety: My Personal Journey
  • The Role of Parenting Styles in Shaping Personality
  • Exploring the Connection Between Dreams and the Unconscious Mind
  • Coping with Grief and Loss: A Personal Reflection
  • The Influence of Birth Order on Personality Development
  • Breaking Free from Addiction: My Road to Recovery
  • The Power of Positive Thinking: How it Can Transform Lives
  • Exploring the Link Between Music and Emotional Well-being
  • The Psychology of Love: Navigating Relationships and Heartbreaks
  • The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health and Self-esteem
  • Understanding and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
  • The Psychology of Procrastination: Why We Delay and How to Overcome it
  • The Role of Nature vs Nurture in Shaping Intelligence
  • The Psychological Effects of Bullying: A Personal Account

Psychology Opinion Essay Topics:

  • The role of nature versus nurture in shaping personality traits
  • The ethical implications of using medication to treat mental illnesses
  • The influence of childhood experiences on adult relationships
  • The role of genetics in determining intelligence
  • The impact of parenting styles on child development
  • The role of dreams in understanding the unconscious mind
  • The influence of culture on perception and cognition
  • The impact of technology on attention span and cognitive abilities
  • The role of self-esteem in mental well-being
  • The effects of long-term exposure to violence on psychological health
  • The influence of gender stereotypes on career choices
  • The role of empathy in building and maintaining relationships

Psychology Evaluation Essay Topics:

  • The impact of social media on body image and self-esteem in adolescents
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques in reducing stress levels
  • The role of genetics in the development of personality traits
  • Assessing the effectiveness of positive reinforcement in shaping behavior
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of virtual reality therapy in treating phobias
  • The influence of parenting styles on child development and behavior
  • Assessing the effectiveness of group therapy in treating substance abuse disorders
  • The role of nature versus nurture in the development of intelligence
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of cognitive training programs in improving memory and cognitive abilities in older adults
  • The impact of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic illnesses
  • Assessing the effectiveness of art therapy in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety
  • The role of attachment styles in romantic relationships and their impact on relationship satisfaction
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of behavioral interventions in reducing aggressive behavior in children with conduct disorders

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61 intriguing psychology research topics to explore

Last updated

11 January 2024

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Short on time? Get an AI generated summary of this article instead

Psychology is an incredibly diverse, critical, and ever-changing area of study in the medical and health industries. Because of this, it’s a common area of study for students and healthcare professionals.

We’re walking you through picking the perfect topic for your upcoming paper or study. Keep reading for plenty of example topics to pique your interest and curiosity.

  • How to choose a psychology research topic

Exploring a psychology-based topic for your research project? You need to pick a specific area of interest to collect compelling data. 

Use these tips to help you narrow down which psychology topics to research:

Focus on a particular area of psychology

The most effective psychological research focuses on a smaller, niche concept or disorder within the scope of a study. 

Psychology is a broad and fascinating area of science, including everything from diagnosed mental health disorders to sports performance mindset assessments. 

This gives you plenty of different avenues to explore. Having a hard time choosing? Check out our list of 61 ideas further down in this article to get started.

Read the latest clinical studies

Once you’ve picked a more niche topic to explore, you need to do your due diligence and explore other research projects on the same topic. 

This practice will help you learn more about your chosen topic, ask more specific questions, and avoid covering existing projects. 

For the best results, we recommend creating a research folder of associated published papers to reference throughout your project. This makes it much easier to cite direct references and find inspiration down the line.

Find a topic you enjoy and ask questions

Once you’ve spent time researching and collecting references for your study, you finally get to explore. 

Whether this research project is for work, school, or just for fun, having a passion for your research will make the project much more enjoyable. (Trust us, there will be times when that is the only thing that keeps you going.) 

Now you’ve decided on the topic, ask more nuanced questions you might want to explore. 

If you can, pick the direction that interests you the most to make the research process much more enjoyable.

  • 61 psychology topics to research in 2024

Need some extra help starting your psychology research project on the right foot? Explore our list of 61 cutting-edge, in-demand psychology research topics to use as a starting point for your research journey.

  • Psychology research topics for university students

As a university student, it can be hard to pick a research topic that fits the scope of your classes and is still compelling and unique. 

Here are a few exciting topics we recommend exploring for your next assigned research project:

Mental health in post-secondary students

Seeking post-secondary education is a stressful and overwhelming experience for most students, making this topic a great choice to explore for your in-class research paper. 

Examples of post-secondary mental health research topics include:

Student mental health status during exam season

Mental health disorder prevalence based on study major

The impact of chronic school stress on overall quality of life

The impacts of cyberbullying

Cyberbullying can occur at all ages, starting as early as elementary school and carrying through into professional workplaces. 

Examples of cyberbullying-based research topics you can study include:

The impact of cyberbullying on self-esteem

Common reasons people engage in cyberbullying 

Cyberbullying themes and commonly used terms

Cyberbullying habits in children vs. adults

The long-term effects of cyberbullying

  • Clinical psychology research topics

If you’re looking to take a more clinical approach to your next project, here are a few topics that involve direct patient assessment for you to consider:

Chronic pain and mental health

Living with chronic pain dramatically impacts every aspect of a person’s life, including their mental and emotional health. 

Here are a few examples of in-demand pain-related psychology research topics:

The connection between diabetic neuropathy and depression

Neurological pain and its connection to mental health disorders

Efficacy of meditation and mindfulness for pain management

The long-term effects of insomnia

Insomnia is where you have difficulty falling or staying asleep. It’s a common health concern that impacts millions of people worldwide. 

This is an excellent topic because insomnia can have a variety of causes, offering many research possibilities. 

Here are a few compelling psychology research topics about insomnia you could investigate:

The prevalence of insomnia based on age, gender, and ethnicity

Insomnia and its impact on workplace productivity

The connection between insomnia and mental health disorders

Efficacy and use of melatonin supplements for insomnia

The risks and benefits of prescription insomnia medications

Lifestyle options for managing insomnia symptoms

The efficacy of mental health treatment options

Management and treatment of mental health conditions is an ever-changing area of study. If you can witness or participate in mental health therapies, this can make a great research project. 

Examples of mental health treatment-related psychology research topics include:

The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for patients with severe anxiety

The benefits and drawbacks of group vs. individual therapy sessions

Music therapy for mental health disorders

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for patients with depression 

  • Controversial psychology research paper topics

If you are looking to explore a more cutting-edge or modern psychology topic, you can delve into a variety of controversial and topical options:

The impact of social media and digital platforms

Ever since access to internet forums and video games became more commonplace, there’s been growing concern about the impact these digital platforms have on mental health. 

Examples of social media and video game-related psychology research topics include:

The effect of edited images on self-confidence

How social media platforms impact social behavior

Video games and their impact on teenage anger and violence

Digital communication and the rapid spread of misinformation

The development of digital friendships

Psychotropic medications for mental health

In recent years, the interest in using psychoactive medications to treat and manage health conditions has increased despite their inherently controversial nature. 

Examples of psychotropic medication-related research topics include:

The risks and benefits of using psilocybin mushrooms for managing anxiety

The impact of marijuana on early-onset psychosis

Childhood marijuana use and related prevalence of mental health conditions

Ketamine and its use for complex PTSD (C-PTSD) symptom management

The effect of long-term psychedelic use and mental health conditions

  • Mental health disorder research topics

As one of the most popular subsections of psychology, studying mental health disorders and how they impact quality of life is an essential and impactful area of research. 

While studies in these areas are common, there’s always room for additional exploration, including the following hot-button topics:

Anxiety and depression disorders

Anxiety and depression are well-known and heavily researched mental health disorders. 

Despite this, we still don’t know many things about these conditions, making them great candidates for psychology research projects:

Social anxiety and its connection to chronic loneliness

C-PTSD symptoms and causes

The development of phobias

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) behaviors and symptoms

Depression triggers and causes

Self-care tools and resources for depression

The prevalence of anxiety and depression in particular age groups or geographic areas

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a complex and multi-faceted area of psychology research. 

Use your research skills to learn more about this condition and its impact by choosing any of the following topics:

Early signs of bipolar disorder

The incidence of bipolar disorder in young adults

The efficacy of existing bipolar treatment options

Bipolar medication side effects

Cognitive behavioral therapy for people with bipolar 

Schizoaffective disorder

Schizoaffective disorder is often stigmatized, and less common mental health disorders are a hotbed for new and exciting research. 

Here are a few examples of interesting research topics related to this mental health disorder:

The prevalence of schizoaffective disorder by certain age groups or geographic locations

Risk factors for developing schizoaffective disorder

The prevalence and content of auditory and visual hallucinations

Alternative therapies for schizoaffective disorder

  • Societal and systematic psychology research topics

Modern society’s impact is deeply enmeshed in our mental and emotional health on a personal and community level. 

Here are a few examples of societal and systemic psychology research topics to explore in more detail:

Access to mental health services

While mental health awareness has risen over the past few decades, access to quality mental health treatment and resources is still not equitable. 

This can significantly impact the severity of a person’s mental health symptoms, which can result in worse health outcomes if left untreated. 

Explore this crucial issue and provide information about the need for improved mental health resource access by studying any of the following topics:

Rural vs. urban access to mental health resources

Access to crisis lines by location

Wait times for emergency mental health services

Inequities in mental health access based on income and location

Insurance coverage for mental health services

Systemic racism and mental health

Societal systems and the prevalence of systemic racism heavily impact every aspect of a person’s overall health.

Researching these topics draws attention to existing problems and contributes valuable insights into ways to improve access to care moving forward.

Examples of systemic racism-related psychology research topics include: 

Access to mental health resources based on race

The prevalence of BIPOC mental health therapists in a chosen area

The impact of systemic racism on mental health and self-worth

Racism training for mental health workers

The prevalence of mental health disorders in discriminated groups

LGBTQIA+ mental health concerns

Research about LGBTQIA+ people and their mental health needs is a unique area of study to explore for your next research project. It’s a commonly overlooked and underserved community.

Examples of LGBTQIA+ psychology research topics to consider include:

Mental health supports for queer teens and children

The impact of queer safe spaces on mental health

The prevalence of mental health disorders in the LGBTQIA+ community

The benefits of queer mentorship and found family

Substance misuse in LQBTQIA+ youth and adults

  • Collect data and identify trends with Dovetail

Psychology research is an exciting and competitive study area, making it the perfect choice for projects or papers.

Take the headache out of analyzing your data and instantly access the insights you need to complete your next psychology research project by teaming up with Dovetail today.

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220 Psychology Essay Topics

Writing a psychology essay has many challenges that can deter students from starting or completing the writing assignment. From finding a topic with credible sources to citing formats and in-depth analysis, psychology essays often become complicated. However, it is possible to research and write a psychology essay in an organized and coherent format that follows the correct rules for avoiding plagiarism.

If you are a psychology student or writing an essay for a psychology course, check out the following guide detailing the basics of psychology essay writing along with 220 psychology essay writing prompts to help you get started.

What Is a Psychology Essay?

Psychology is defined as “the science of mind and human behavior.” It focuses on how humans think, act, react and feel. This includes the study of emotions, intelligence, thoughts, memories, learning, and motivation.

A psychology essay is usually written in response to a specific assignment question or topic. The goal of the essay is to demonstrate your understanding of the psychological concept or topic that has been assigned and your ability to analyze and interpret data.

How Do I Write an Effective Psychology Essay?

To write an effective psychology essay, you must first research the topic. This can involve reading journal articles, textbooks, and other scholarly sources. Then, once you have a clear understanding of the topic, you can formulate your thesis statement and develop an argument.

Students should outline their psychology essay before writing any drafts. The outline will help organize thoughts, examples, and evidence logically. A psychology outline should include:

An Introduction

No matter the type of essay you write for a psychology course, it’s essential to start with a compelling introduction paragraph to entice the reader and inform them of what will be discussed in the essay.

After relevant information has been covered, a psychology essay introduction must include a detailed thesis statement that details the point of the essay.

It is important to note that the thesis should not be a vague or broad claim that cannot be supported by the rest of the essay. In fact, an excellent thesis statement will detail the nature of the problem, its causes, and how it can be solved.

Topic Sentence & Body Paragraphs

Your essay should include at least three body paragraphs that address specific arguments relating to the thesis statement. Each paragraph must include a topic sentence and supporting evidence from credible sources. The topic sentence of each paragraph should link to the thesis statement while providing context for the evidence that follows.

Each body paragraph should only include one point per section. Don’t try to stuff all of your arguments into one paragraph. Additionally, each body paragraph should end with a transition sentence that flows into the thought of the next paragraphs topic sentence.

The conclusion paragraph should briefly restate the thesis statement and include a brief summary of the three body paragraphs. The conclusion should also have an opinion or evaluation on the topic being addressed. While including your own opinion is not required, it will make you stand out as a writer. Psychology essays written on unusual issues may require a creative approach to the conclusion.

In addition, students should include an introductory page with a running head and title page followed by a works cited/reference page at the end of the essay. Finally, all pages should be numbered consecutively, beginning with the introduction page.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Writing a Psychology Essay

Because of the detailed and informational nature of a psychology essay, it is essential to follow these important do’s and don’ts to ensure that your writing is compelling, accurate, and informative:

  • Start with a compelling introduction.
  • Use evidence from credible sources to develop an argument.
  • Write in the third person and include quotes.

Don’t

  • Omit, add or paraphrase information without providing citations for any ideas that aren’t your original thoughts.
  • Use an informal writing style that includes idioms or slang.
  • Use passive voice constructions (e.g., it should be ‘is’ not ‘was’).
  • Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that doesn’t connect to the thesis statement.
  • Follow a pattern of organization that is not logical or clear.

Psychology essays are an important part of most undergraduate psychology courses. By following the do’s and don’ts listed above, students can produce high-quality essays that effectively communicate their arguments and position on the topic being addressed.

If you have been assigned a psychology essay but aren’t sure what to write about, consider using any of these 220 psychology essay writing prompts. Each one is designed to help you explore an interesting topic in psychology and generate a well-written paper.

Psychology Essay Topics About Human Cognition

  • What is cognitive dissonance, and how does it affect human behavior?
  • Is the self a social construct or something innate to human nature?
  • How does experience influence perceptual development in infants and children?
  • How do culture, emotion, and cognition influence one another?
  • How do culture and environment influence thought processes in children?
  • What are the most common cognitive biases observed in human behavior?
  • What is the theory of mind, and how does it influence social interaction?
  • How does aggressive behavior develop in children and adolescents?
  • Does visual or spatial intelligence differ between genders?
  • How does the brain process information and store memories?
  • What is the effect of sleep deprivation on cognitive function?
  • What are the most common learning disabilities, and how do they impact cognitive development?
  • What are the best ways to enhance cognitive function?
  • What causes the decrease in cognitive function as we get older?
  • Does a reduction in cognitive function affect emotional stability?
  • When should a person seek professional help for a cognitive disorder?
  • What is the role of dopamine in cognitive function?
  • How do genetics and environment interact to influence cognitive ability?
  • Are the effects of diseases that limit cognitive function better reduced with traditional or alternative therapies?

Psychology Essays About Famous Experiments

  • How do Milgram’s obedience experiments challenge our understanding of human nature?
  • What can the Stanford Prison Experiment tell us about the power of authority?
  • What is the Hawthorne effect, and how does it impact research results?
  • How did the Watson and Rayner Little Albert experiment help to shape psychology as a scientific discipline?
  • What are the ethical implications of Milgram’s obedience experiments?
  • What are the ethical implications of the Stanford Prison Experiment?
  • What are some of the criticisms that have been leveled against the Watson and Rayner Little Albert experiment?
  • Are there any benefits to conducting research on children?
  • What are the most common ethical issues associated with psychological research?
  • Which groundbreaking psychology experiments from the past would be considered unethical in modern times?
  • Discuss the revelations of the Stanford Prison Experiment and how they might have been prevented.
  • What are the ethical considerations of conducting psychological experiments?
  • Should the benefits of understanding human behavior outweigh the ethical implications of a particular experiment?
  • Which famous psychology experiment has been shown to be false in modern times?
  • Which famous psychology experiment is no longer valid thanks to increased technology use?

Psychology Essay Topics About Psychology Careers

  • What are the most common career paths for psychology graduates?
  • How do you decide which psychology career is right for you?
  • What are the duties and responsibilities of a psychologist?
  • What are some of the challenges faced by psychologists in their careers?
  • What are the benefits of being a psychologist?
  • How do you become a licensed psychologist?
  • What are some of the areas of specialization for psychologists?
  • Should the average salary for a psychologist in the United States increase or decrease?
  • What are the job prospects for psychologists in the future?
  • What are the educational requirements for becoming a psychologist?

Psychology Essay Topics About Child Development

  • What is the impact of television on child development?
  • What are the best ways to discipline a child?
  • How do children learn to trust or mistrust others?
  • What causes bedwetting in children?
  • How does a child’s temperament develop?
  • How does language development occur in children?
  • What is the best way to solve problems parents have with their children?
  • How do children develop empathy for others?
  • What is the “terrible twos,” and why does it happen?
  • Does reading books to children impact their development?
  • What are some developmental milestones healthy children should reach by certain ages?
  • What is the impact of divorce on child development?
  • How does a child’s social environment affect their development?
  • What are some common issues that children experience during puberty?
  • What are the benefits of nature exposure for children?
  • How do siblings influence each other’s development?
  • Discuss different parenting styles and their effects on child development.
  • How do different parenting styles impact a child’s social skills development?
  • What are some ways to discipline a child without being too harsh or permissive?
  • Which psychological disorder is most likely to be passed down from a parent to a child?
  • Is sexual abuse as a child easier to overcome than sexual abuse as an adult?
  • Does abuse become a cycle if it is not addressed immediately?
  • How does child development research help to prevent child abuse?
  • What are the long-term effects of child abuse?
  • What are some warning signs that a child may be being abused?
  • How can parents get help for their child if they think they may be abusing them?
  • What is the best way to help a child who has been abused?
  • What are some of the warning signs of suicidal behavior in children?

Psychology Essay Topics About Disorders

  • What is the difference between a psychological disorder and a mental illness?
  • What are the symptoms of a psychological disorder?
  • What are the most common causes of psychological disorders?
  • How do psychologists diagnose psychological disorders?
  • What are the most effective treatments for psychological disorders?
  • Are there any benefits to taking medication for a psychological disorder?
  • How do psychologists treat patients with psychological disorders?
  • What are some of the most common psychological disorders that require hospitalization?
  • Which famous psychologist is well-known for his work on psychological disorders?
  • What is the difference between a personality disorder and a mental illness?
  • What are the most common treatments for personality disorders?
  • How can someone know if they have a personality disorder?
  • Is there a cure for psychological disorders?
  • Can psychological disorders be prevented from developing in the first place?
  • Are psychological disorders genetic?
  • What is the difference between a phobia and an anxiety disorder?
  • What are the most common treatments for phobias?
  • Can people overcome their phobias?
  • What is the difference between OCD and anxiety disorders?
  • What causes dissociative identity disorder?
  • What are the signs and symptoms of dissociative identity disorder?
  • How do psychologists recognize if someone has a borderline personality disorder?
  • What is the difference between psychotic and neurotic disorders?
  • What causes schizophrenia?
  • What kind of treatments does a psychologist recommend for schizophrenia patients?

Psychology Essay Topics About Branches of Psychology

  • What are some of the different theories within psychology?
  • What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
  • Which branch of psychology studies personality?
  • Is it possible to determine someone’s personality type just by looking at them?
  • How do psychologists conduct tests to measure personality traits?
  • Which branch of psychology studies how people are affected by their social surroundings?
  • What is the difference between positive psychology and clinical psychology?
  • Which branch of psychology studies intelligence?
  • How do psychologists test for different types of intelligence?
  • Are there any tests that measure creativity?
  • Which branch of psychology is most effective at treating mental disorders?
  • How do psychologists use different therapies to treat mental disorders?
  • What is the difference between a psychologist and a social worker?
  • What are the different specialties within psychology?
  • Is there such a thing as abnormal psychology?
  • How do psychologists study the human brain?
  • What is the difference between a research psychologist and a clinical psychologist?
  • What are the most common research methods used by psychologists?
  • How do psychological studies receive ethics approval before they begin?
  • What is the difference between an experimental design and a correlational design?
  • What is the difference between descriptive statistics and inferential statistics?

Psychology Essay Topics About History of Psychology

  • What are some of the significant events in the history of psychology?
  • Who are the most influential psychologists in history?
  • What are the most important experiments that have taken place in psychology?
  • How has psychology evolved from pseudoscience to a science?
  • What have been some most tragic events in the history of psychology?
  • How did the Scientific Revolution contribute to the development of modern psychology?
  • Why is Wilhelm Wundt considered one of the most influential psychologists ever to have lived?
  • What is Skinner’s theory of learning and behavior called, and why was it controversial?
  • What are some examples of cognitive biases?
  • What is the difference between a cognitive bias and an optical illusion?
  • When did psychology begin to flourish as a scientific discipline, and why do many historians credit the U.S. government with its success?
  • What are some of the most important contributions women have made to psychology over the years?
  • Who was the first person to study the behavior of animals in a laboratory setting?
  • What is the difference between Gestalt psychology and structuralism?
  • What are some of the key figures in the history of psychoanalysis?
  • How did Sigmund Freud’s theories about the unconscious mind influence psychology?
  • What is the difference between psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic theory?
  • How did Anna Freud change the way that psychologists think about child development?
  • What are some areas of psychology that psychoanalysis has influenced?
  • Who is Carl Jung, and what was his main contribution to psychology?
  • What is the “father of modern-day psychology” credited with doing?

Psychology Essay Topics About Drug Addiction

  • What is drug addiction, and what are the different stages that a person goes through in order to become addicted to drugs?
  • What are the physical and psychological effects of drug addiction?
  • How does drug addiction affect the brain?
  • What are some of the most common treatment methods for drug addiction?
  • What is relapse prevention, and how does it differ from drug replacement therapies?
  • What is the difference between a physical and psychological addiction?
  • Why do some people become addicted to drugs while others don’t?
  • What are some factors that can contribute to becoming addicted to drugs?
  • What is the difference between drug abuse and drug addiction?
  • How does withdrawal from drugs affect the body and mind?
  • What are the long-term effects of drug addiction?
  • How do family dynamics play into a person’s vulnerability to drug addiction?
  • What is the difference between treating addiction and managing a chronic illness?
  • How effective are drug addiction treatments?
  • Can drug addiction be cured, or is it a lifelong struggle?
  • What is the difference between 12-step programs and treatment centers?

Psychology Essay Topics About PTSD

  • What are the symptoms of PTSD?
  • How is post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosed in adults and children?
  • Why do only some people get PTSD after experiencing a traumatic event?
  • How common is PTSD among soldiers who have returned home from war?
  • What are some of the possible causes of PTSD?
  • Why do many people with PTSD avoid talking about or thinking about their traumatic experiences?
  • How does treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder differ in children and adults?
  • How effective are different forms of treatment for patients with PTSD, including group therapy and medication?
  • What are some of the long-term effects of PTSD?
  • Can PTSD be cured?
  • What is the difference between PTSD and everyday stress?
  • What are some common myths about post-traumatic stress disorder?
  • How can friends and family help someone who is struggling with PTSD?
  • What are some examples of PTSD in classical literature, such as The Iliad or The Odyssey?

Psychology Essay Topics About Social Issues?

  • How does the current political climate impact how people think and behave?
  • What effects to violence in video games have on behavior?
  • What are some of the findings from research on the biological factors that make a person more likely to become violent?
  • How has technology impacted current crime and criminal justice trends, including cyberbullying and sexting?
  • In what ways have social media changed interpersonal relationships?
  • What is the difference between positive and negative reinforcement?
  • How does the Social Learning Theory explain criminal behavior?
  • What is the difference between an individual and a collective conscience?
  • What is the difference between prejudice and discrimination?
  • Why do people conform to social norms even if they disagree with them?
  • Are there any benefits to living in a society structured around social norms?
  • How does the bystander effect explain why people don’t always help someone in need?
  • What are some of the different types of aggression?
  • How does Sigmund Freud’s theory of the Id, Ego, and Superego explain how people make decisions?
  • What is the difference between primary and secondary deviance?
  • How does the Labeling Theory explain why people engage in criminal behavior?
  • How does the dramaturgical perspective help us to understand social interactions?

Psychology Essay Topics About Sexuality

  • What is the difference between sexual orientation and gender identity?
  • How does one determine their own sexual orientation or identity?
  • Why do some people engage in homosexual behavior even though they don’t identify as gay, lesbian, or bisexual?
  • What are some of the different types of sexual orientation?
  • What is the difference between asexuality and celibacy?
  • What are some common myths about sexuality?
  • How does the development of sexual orientation differ in boys and girls?
  • What is the difference between love and lust?
  • Why do people engage in sexual activity even if they don’t want to?
  • What is the difference between sexual arousal and desire?
  • What are some of the different factors contributing to sexual violence against women, including date rape and domestic abuse?
  • Why do people engage in sex even if it poses a risk for them, such as contracting a sexually transmitted infection?
  • Can people change their sexual orientation or identity?
  • What are some of the benefits of being open about one’s sexuality?
  • How does the Kinsey Scale work?
  • What is transgenderism?
  • How does the Sexual Response Cycle describe the physiological stages of sexual arousal?
  • What are some of the reasons for engaging in sexual activity?
  • What neurotransmitters are responsible for sexual urges and arousal?
  • What is the difference between sexual paraphilias and fetish?
  • What is the psychology behind pedophilia?
  • What is the difference between a monogamous and polygamous relationship?
  • How does the development of sexual identity differ in boys and girls?

Psychology Essay Topics About Memory

  • What is the difference between short-term and long-term memory?
  • How does information enter into short-term memory?
  • How does information leave short-term memory?
  • What is the difference between recall and recognition?
  • What are the different types of forgetting?
  • What strategies can be used to improve memory?
  • What is the difference between proactive and retroactive interference?
  • What parts of the brain are associated with different types of memory?
  • Why do we experience false memories?
  • How does sleep affect memory retention?
  • How does alcohol consumption affect one’s ability to encode memories?

With these 220 psychology essay topics, students at any level of education will be able to research, outline, and craft a well-thought-out essay that will earn them a good grade.

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629 Psychology Essay Topics & Examples

Struggle with essay writing on mental health, disorders, or overall well-being? Our team has prepared this list of psychology essay topics for high school and college students.

📃 Aspects to Cover in a Psychology Essay

🏆 best psychology essay examples & topics, 👍 good psychological essay topics, 🎓 simple & easy psychology essay topics, 📌 writing prompts about psychology, 🥇 most interesting psychological essay topics, ✍️ exciting psychology topics to write about, ❓ psychology essay questions.

At the core of every excellent psychology essay are the writer’s comprehensive knowledge and ability to structure it into bite-sized clusters of information.

While it is evident that your topic is your guiding line, you should not limit yourself to focusing only on the information you are including. Instead, you should try to cover all aspects of essay writing in your paper, from facts and their sources to writing strategies.

Psychology Essay Topics

From self-analysis and obedience to nonverbal communication and various mental disorders, most subjects may seem interrelated and reflective of each other.

Your search for an issue that is yours should begin with analyzing psychology essay prompts, such as:

  • What branch of psychology interests you most?
  • Which theorists have contributed to this branch?
  • Which issues and mechanisms have they outlined?
  • Is there adequate supplementary research on these problems?
  • What is the opinion of contemporary academia on these subjects?
  • Do you want to build upon existing arguments or attempt to critique?

After this, you can analyze what resonates with you, for example, a particular theory or a specific personality, and you can begin writing a thesis statement for your paper.

Pre-writing

Doing your research beforehand helps you get an understanding of how to develop your central theme. Your bibliography and your used titles demonstrate not only your credibility but also the approach you have regarding your subject.

A well-versed reader may even draw a correct conclusion regarding which theorists have influenced your work, even if you did not explicitly state them in your paper, judging by your used sources.

Therefore, be selective in choosing what books and journals to use for your essay and include only those that help advance your pre-written thesis statement.

Referencing information from books and journals is an essential aspect of writing an essay, as this demonstrates the soundness of your ideas per the academic viewpoint on your subject.

Psychology Essay Structure

Your essay may only be as good as the outline you create for it. When you divide your work into thematic blocks, you can begin to see which topics are lacking in development and may need extra attention.

Furthermore, when you split your work up, it becomes easier to write and create interconnected paragraphs. Who takes on the role of the appraiser, the used mechanism, and the personal and social implications of it are all examples of dissecting social evaluation into smaller problems.

Addressing each of these blocks in separate paragraphs helps maintain a coherent yet exciting narrative.

  • Your introduction should give your audience a brief overview of the issue that you will develop throughout the next pages;
  • Your conclusion should summarize your findings, effectively outlining the outcome of your work per your thesis statement;
  • The body paragraphs between your introduction and conclusion, as per you outline, should each address a single theme, creating a unique, interflowing narrative.

If you are not sure how to do this, then read an available psychology essay example to gain a better understanding of how to develop your theme.

Sample papers are an excellent way to jump-start your writing, as you can see for yourself, which approaches to essay wiring work and do not, respectively implementing or removing them from your essay.

Need more help before you can get started? Use IvyPanda for all your essay-writing needs!

  • Six Major Psychological Theories: Strengths and Weaknesses Behavioral psychology is considered a descendant of the animal psychology, which argues that the environment has a lot of influence in the changes that take place in human beings.
  • Psychological Disorders in “American Psycho” Movie The main character, who will be the basis of this paper’s analysis, is Patrick Bateman, who is a young and successful individual.
  • Psychological Profile of John Wayne Gacy Gacy was born into a family of a homemaker mother and a father veteran of the First World War and a car repair person. In the course of charging, trialing, and convicting he never admitted […]
  • The Silence of the Lambs Psychological Analysis In the movie The Silence of the Lambs, Hannibal Lecter portrays several traits and behavioral patterns that show he is suffering from a psychological condition.
  • Psychological Science: Counseling Essay (Theory of Counseling) Another important aspect is the counseling process; this depends on the individual counselor and client and the urgency of the issue in question.
  • Comparing Freud, Adler and Jung Psychology Freud did develop the original theories of the conscious and unconscious and subconscious; the ego, id and superego; the libidinal and aggressive drives; the Oedipus and Electra complexes; the defense mechanisms of the mind being, […]
  • The Tell-Tale Heart Psychological Analysis & Critique The outstanding character in the tale, who is also the narrator, attracts a lot of attention from the readers. The narrator forms the basis of the tale.
  • The Perception Process Stages – Psychology Perception refers to the process of organizing, identifying, and interpreting sensory information in an effort to understand and make sense of the environment.
  • Biological Psychology: Development and Theories Therefore, biological psychology is used to examine the behavior of the humans and animals in order to facilitate in the treatment of the brain.
  • Psychological Testing: Ethical and Legal Issues Two of the cases that have had a major impact on the institution of psychological testing are ‘Larry P.v Riles and Crawford v.
  • Psychology and Christianity: “Abnormality” From a Biblical Perspective The Bible as God’s word is right in all religious teachings within the context of Christian setup. How can the Bible’s guidance inform an individual’s notion of abnormality?
  • Aileen Wuornos: Biological, Psychological, and Social Control Theories The name of Aileen Wuornos and the story of her life have been popular topics of discussion in mass media and professional literature.
  • Common Criticisms of Psychology It is the application of knowledge in the study of human activity such as the day to day lives and mental illness. Psychology is the study of human mind and behavior.
  • The Psychology of Serial Killers These are just a fraction of questions that require answers in order to have a complete understanding of the psychology of serial killers.
  • Psychological Impact on Education Therefore, this research examines the impacts of psychology on education, professionals, and relationship success in the education setting. The educational psychology in accordance to the academic description may mean the study of teaching, learning, and […]
  • Language in Cognitive Psychology Adult people can preserve 50,000 words of their first language and thousands of words of the second language in the form of lexicons.
  • Psychology of Adolescence Development The strategy allows the examination of the significance of adolescence as a standard stage of development. However, she admits that she experienced a period of anxiety and distress upon the death of her mother when […]
  • Forensic Psychology: Zodiac Killer Case Analysis By looking at the subject matter of the Zodiac Killer, the present paper aims to identify important characteristics related to serial killers and how the domain of forensic psychology could be applied to solve cases […]
  • Girl, Interrupted (1999): Exploring Four Mental Disorders Apart from the dramatic and the entertaining aspect of this movie, it contains a psychological aspect and this is the major purpose of this paper; exploring the psychological disorders in the movie, giving their causes […]
  • Mind-Body Debate: Monism and Dualism in Psychology As a result, it is almost impossible to find the answer that can address the views of all philosophers and psychologists who are interested in determining the nature of the mind and body interaction.
  • Rain Man and Psychological Concepts The concepts of autism, conformity, and trust are described in the movie; and the peculiarity of this story is that one concept is closely connected to another concept, and the consequences of one concept influence […]
  • Comparison of Codes of Ethics: The American Counseling Association and the American Psychological Association Both the Psychologist and the counselor abide to the same codes of conduct with regard to terminating their services to a client.
  • Memory Chart Stages in Psychology For instance, the brain uses the procedural memory to encode procedural skills and tasks that an individual is involved in. The stages of memory are very complex and often pass unrecognized.
  • Physiological and Psychological Needs Differences Both physiological and psychological needs are necessary for the proper development of an individual. However, it is impossible for an individual to survive without satisfying their physiological needs.
  • Contribution Ancient Great Thinkers to the Growth and Development of Psychology Then, the relationship between the mind and the body perplexed ancient philosophers and this led to the development of psychology as an independent field of knowledge that considers both philosophy of the mind and physiology […]
  • Psychological Theories of Sophocles’ Oedipus the King One of the greatest tragedies of Sophocles, Oedipus the King touches upon a deep psychological theme of the parents-son relations which lately was called the Oedipus complex and the theme of faith as a main […]
  • Psychological Concept of Learning This article explores the concept of learning by focusing on learning, the role of behavior in relation to learning, types of learning, and the relationship between learning and cognition.
  • Criminal Psychology Although the above discussed theories indicate that anyone can be a criminal since the development of the behaviour is determined greatly by the environmental factors,Eysenck’s theory of crime indicate that there are heredity factors that […]
  • Consumer Behaviour and Psychological Motives In this case, it is assumed that the satisfaction of the consumer is dependent on the performance of the product or the perceptions of the consumer in relation to the product, and the motivations that […]
  • The Significance of Lifespan Development in the Practice of Counseling Psychology The physical aspect of lifespan development is one of the important ones: it is related to the growth and development of the body and changes in the body and the brain.
  • Psychological and Sociological Theories in Life People tend to behave in a way that is beneficial for the development of the system. This theoretical paradigm explains people’s choice to obtain the higher education as this enables them to contribute to the […]
  • The Movie “Blue Velvet”: Psychological Criticism The gist of this paper, therefore, is to offer psychological criticism of the Movie as regards its screenplay, plot, direction, and general presentation, and this is done by applying the Freudian Theory of Psychological Analysis […]
  • Children’s Psychological Apperception Test The test was designed to determine children’s personality qualities and psychological issues together with the social or intimate problems that bother them on the stages of their lives and developments when the test is conducted.
  • Psychological vs. Physical Continuity Theory In the analysis of psychological continuity theory, there is a variety of views on the roles of the soul and body in a person’s development.
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder – Psychology This paper mainly addresses some of the characteristics of OCD, what contribute it, the kind of people who are likely to attract the disease, types of treatment of the disorder, and how it affects a […]
  • Personalistic and Naturalistic Approach in the History of Psychology Therefore, changes and progress occur due to the goals and charisma of individuals who changed the course of history. In contrast, naturalistic theory implies that social, intellectual, and cultural development depends on the Zeitgeist, the […]
  • Definition of Positive Psychology in Psychology Positive psychology is the systematic analysis of the strengths and qualities that permit individuals to thrive. From the above analysis, it is advisable that scholars should engage in extensive research to establish the truth as […]
  • Mary Whiton Calkins and Her Impact on Modern Psychology In order to expand her knowledge of psychology, Mary had to take a year’s studies in psychology prior to her teaching in the same field.
  • Psychologist William Sheldon: Theories and Methods Sheldon did not belong to the so-called pseudo-scientists, as he put the ancient points of view of the affiliation between the type of body and temperament on sheltered basics. The last type of body and […]
  • Humanistic and Sociocultural Psychological Approaches From a sociocultural perspective in psychology, the lack of external influence and the specificity of ethnicity can cause the child’s behavior. In the sociocultural approach, the psychologist has to work with him as a teacher, […]
  • Physiological Psychology Definition The nervous system affects behavior through the brain; it is the signals that are sent via its tendons to the brain that will affect the behavior of an individual.
  • Technology in Psychological Assessment The speed in conducting tests with the help of technology and the improved data analysis based on the effective use of statistical procedures make the technology play the important role in the sphere of emotional […]
  • The Role of Hypotheses in Psychological Research A hypothesis is a specified concept about a certain concept which can be tested about the anticipation of the outcome in the study.
  • Psychology: Change Blindness Experiment The independent variable was the type of change, and the dependent variable was the response to detecting the changes. Broadly, it was established that change blindness varied with the type of change introduced because incongruent […]
  • “Inside Out”: Riley’s Psychological Analysis This genre of cinematography is mainly aimed at the children’s audience, which means that the task of the screenwriters is to create such material that would be able to tell the severe emotional problems of […]
  • The Mind-Body Problem in the History of Psychology The crux of the problem is evident from its name: what is the relationship between the mind and the body? A prominent medieval philosopher Thomas Aquinas ties the issue of the body and the soul […]
  • The Phases of a Crime and Their Importance in Psychological Profiling Attempt and accomplishment, the third and fourth phases of a crime respectively, differ in the sense that an attempt is a failed crime.
  • Community Psychology: Social Change and Justice The story highlighted in the article is related to the community psychology concept of social change in several ways. The community psychology concept that is relevant to the article is the concept of social justice.
  • Astrology as Pseudo-Psychology Astrology is likely to be the most popular form of pseudo-psychology, and it is based on a belief that the arrangement of stars and planets at the time of a person’s birth determines personality traits […]
  • Socio-Cultural Approach to Psychology This is influenced by a transmission of resources from the care givers to the dependencies. The kind of attention and language the child gets is from the surrounding.
  • Positive Psychology in “The Pursuit of Happyness” Film Gardner demonstrates perseverance, hope, and social intelligence and illustrates the importance of effectance motivation and the power of social networks, even though the protagonist’s relationship with his wife could be improved.
  • Industrial and Organizational Psychology Theory Industrial/organizational psychology is a field that applies psychology principles to the workplace.It can be used to solve issues that occur in the organizational context.
  • Effective Psychological Counselling Dissemination of new information to the client should be the main focus of any counseling session. Reviews are essential and should be done at agreed dates so as to ensure that the trend of the […]
  • Norms in Psychological Testing Research Paper One of the inherent problems associated with norms and their interpretation in psychological tests is that as time goes on the characteristics by which a particular population/group is defined tends to change and as such […]
  • Attention Regarding Cognitive Psychology That a person only pays attention to the stimulus they are interested in and ignore the rest of the stimuli. The study of attention in cognitive psychology is not a new phenomenon.
  • The History Development of Psychology: The Understanding of Human Behavior The aim of the paper is to identify the reasons that have shaped and led to the development of the history of psychology.
  • Psychological Analysis The importance of free will is one of the key points the humanistic approach studies. These are the fundamentals of the human approach Amy’s behavior is analyzed according to.
  • Definition of Five Perspectives in Psychology While each of these perspectives offers a unique vision of human psychology, all of them can be classified according to such principles as the effect of nature, observance, determinism, consciousness, and individual differences.
  • Psychological Assessment Tools for Christian Professionals This enables the specialist gathering the data to have a bigger picture of the assessee and thus employ the most effective methods in therapy or other help.
  • Indian Sex Workers and Psychological Effects of Job The article “Serving The Goddess”: The dangerous life of a sacred sex worker” is a brief account of the life of two devadasis, particularly their experiences as sex workers.
  • Mahler’s and Winnicott’s Contributions to Psychology Their theories are merely concentrated on the methods of disturbed children treatment through the involvement of psychoanalysis; the theorists are focused on the aspect of mother-infant interrelation and stages of infant’s development through the mother’s […]
  • Modern Cognitive Psychology Renaissance philosophers of the seventeenth century attempted to use graphical representations to demonstrate the structure and operations of the human brain.
  • Psychology Forces in Wilber’s “Spectrum of Consciousness” Translative spirituality facilitates the creation of meaning and the understanding of the notion or the perception of the separate self. According to Vrinte, the most significant level of the spectrum represents the level of the […]
  • Research Methods in Psychology: Pros & Cons The A-B-A-B design is recommended for this study as it helps the researcher to assess the condition of the students before and after the study.
  • Introduction to Psychological Testing Achievement and Aptitude Tests Is commonly practiced in educational as well as employment set ups, since they tend to measure the scope of understanding of a given knowledge.
  • The Psychology of Verbal and Nonverbal Communication On the other hand, one is to keep in mind that the main purpose of the kind of communication is to aid in the formulation of thoughts or ideas, which are expressed through speech.
  • Critical Thinking Role in the Clinical Psychology These activities and conducts may lead a psychologist to identify the mental activities in the brain of the individual. Clinical psychologists specialization is founded on the framework the individual takes in training to become a […]
  • Culturally Informed Psychological Assessment They do not posit a single culture, requiring the assessor to discern these cultures and their influence on a person’s psychological behavior.
  • Expectations From Psychological-Sociological Course In addition, I expect to get an insight into how the system of motivation works and how to implement it in the interaction with the students and keep them interested in the subject.
  • Health Psychology: Going Through a Breast Cancer Diagnosis He is unaware that she has been diagnosed with depression and that she is going for breast screening Stress from work is also a contributing factor to her condition.
  • Biological Psychology In the process, there has been a special role of biological psychology that as emerged as a result of these new discipline.
  • The Theories of Social Psychology Furthermore, a person can bask in the accomplishment of group members and feel very good about it due to their similarity.
  • Ethical Issues Associated With Psychological Testing The second case along the line of psychological testing includes the case of Brown V. Reason The above case was used to examine the validity of psychological testing.
  • Forensic Psychology: Television v. Reality The qualification of a psychologist in the forensic field to qualify as an expert witness is dependent on the reputation as well as the experience that a psychologist has in this field.
  • Economic Crisis and Its Social and Psychological Constraint The failure of large businesses, decrease in consumers’ wealth and demand, and a considerable decline of economic activities also led to the social, cultural, and moral crisis due to the rise of unemployment.
  • “The Black Balloon” From a Psychological Perspective It goes without saying that the health of each individual, in particular, depends not only on them but also on the attitude of the surroundings and the action of the governments in corresponding existing situations.
  • Bipolar Disorder Psychological Assessment She is from a nuclear family, both her parents are alive, and she also has two brothers and three sisters. She is the second child in the family.
  • Psychological Tests, Their Types and Users The projective test on the other hand is ambiguous and the respondent has to answer unstructured questions. The use of psychological tests in research is divided into three.
  • The Philosophy of Psychology He further shows the distinct nature of the philosophy of psychology since its domain of investigation overlaps by that “domain of inquiry which the philosophers have taken to be their own preserve.
  • Psychology in Everyday life While some individuals may think of psychology as a course that is only important to students, therapists or everyone else that is interested in the field of psychology, knowledge in psychology is actually helpful to […]
  • Serial Murders Explained by Psychological Theory A serial killer may recognize the law as a deterrent to his or her activities, but not internalize the significance of the ban due to incomplete moral development.
  • Cognitive Psychology: Scientists Contributions Wundt’s published the groundbreaking book “Principles of Physiological Psychology” in 1879 and he was the first person to refer to psychology as a unique field of study.
  • Psychology Issues: Group Survival in Extreme Situations A valuable personality trait is honesty because, in a situation where extreme conditions are present, the truth is needed to determine the present level of well being of the group and future actions. This led […]
  • Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling The author adds that the counselor needs spiritual maturity in a bid to get the client to the same level of maturity.
  • Psychology And Society In conflict resolution, the one heading the exercise has to have an understanding of the psychology of the conflicting parties. This is why a psychology scholar cannot afford to ignore the works of his/her predecessors.
  • Roles of Ethics in Psychological Research Risk analysis on the intended research activity is necessary to weigh the total benefits and risks of the proposed study to the subjects in terms of privacy and nurturing the reputation psychology as a profession.
  • Definition and Theories of Environmental Psychology The human mind is divided into small sections that can be studied to identify the role played by the brain in the interaction between human beings and the environment.
  • Multicultural Psychology as a Subspecialty of Psychology Over the past 30 years, the study of culture minority issues in the field of psychology has grown to what can now be seen as a significant and dynamic subspecialty in the context of American […]
  • “On Psychological Oppression” by Sandra Bartky Psychological oppression is to have a harsh dominion exercised over your self-esteem and make the victims their own oppressors.
  • Structuralism, Functionalism and Cognitive Theory in Psychology This was done by Ferdinand de Saussure, the French psychologists firmly believed that the theory of Structuralism was not restricted to linguistics alone and later this theory was also applied to various other subjects. Structuralism […]
  • Biology and Psychology in Behavior Explanation Nonetheless, the primary goal of this essay is to provide examples of the biological functioning of the body and explain their importance in psychology while understanding the motives for the particular behavior.
  • Psychological Perspectives and Schools of Thought Among the contemporary perspectives, the neuroscience point of view sees people as organisms with their physiological processes and connects the brain and the nervous system to the behavioral responses.
  • Mother-Child Relationship – Psychology In the study, the two researchers established that children explain the nature of the relationship existing between them and their mothers, but girls tend to express concern as opposed to boys.
  • Definitions of Intelligence in Psychology In this case, there are various items that can be used to test the emotional and physical aspects of an individual.
  • Educational Psychology in Learning and Teaching Thus, this course has significantly helped me as a teacher in studying and applying modern research methodologies and suppositions, practices and plans which emphasize on the use of both quantitative and qualitative methods in improving […]
  • The Core Characteristics of Social Psychology Further, scientific methods form the integral part of social psychology in that they aid the development of theories and their validation in order to provide the scientific understanding of human behavior.
  • Psychology, Anthropology, Sociology: Teen Suicide For young people, suicide continues to be a major problem as thousands of teenagers in the U.S.commit suicide each year. The risk of teen suicide is also seen to increase when they have access to […]
  • Conformity as a Social Psychology Concept In that regard, it can be described as the scientific study of people’s feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in the company of others or the context of society.
  • Psychology: Factors of Success in Life and Career One of the most researched elements about success is the factors that drive people to pursue it. Success is often associated with a positive mental attitude, which triggers the desire to be successful in whatever […]
  • Psychology in Gilman’s “The Yellow Wallpaper” The reading of Gilman story’s few initial lines suggests that the reason why the narrator and her husband John decided to spend the summer in a secluded mansion is that this was supposed to help […]
  • Inevitable Prejudice in Social Psychology Adorno supposes that the authoritarian personality is hostile to those of an inferior rank and servile to those of a higher rank.
  • Psychology and Its Theoretical Diversity While speaking about theoretical diversity and its impact on major concepts of psychology, one is to keep in mind that theoretical psychology is mostly associated with theoretical and philosophical aspects of science. Subdisciplines of psychology […]
  • Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Psychological View As a fact, based on the way the author strategically presents various characters, psychological critics have suggested that some characters in the A Midsummer Night’s Dream can be seen as representations of the ego, the […]
  • Dual Relationships in Psychological Counselling In this scenario, the dual relationship is seen when the psychotherapist acts as a protector of life and involves the police.
  • Psychology: The Little Albert Experiment The study began when the participant was in the middle of their first development stage, and as it ended, the child had the unconscious recognition of fear that generalized to multiple objects.
  • Environmental Psychology: The Impact of Interior Spaces on Childhood Development Nevertheless, with regards to children and their physical and cognitive development, environmental psychology addresses how experiences and exposures to various socio-environmental components affect children’s brain structure and their ability to control their emotions and behaviors.
  • Forensic Psychology: Validating Eyewitness Testimony Indeed, research on eyewitness testimony as admitted in a court of law focuses on the acquisition or the incident of observation, the time that elapses after observation, and the presentation of testimonies.
  • Margaret Floy Washburn: Life and Contributions to Psychology The two main contributions of Washburn to the field of psychology were his studies on the animal mind and development of the motor theory.
  • Adler’s Individual Psychology The paper highlights the most frequent criticisms of Adler’s theory and concludes by reasserting the significance of Adler’s Individual Psychology. This paper will engage in an in-depth review of Alfred Adler and his contributions to […]
  • Developmental Theories in Psychology Moreover, it shows the similarities and differences among these theories and how they account for normal and abnormal child and adolescent psychological and physical development in children and adolescents with specific reference to physical, cognitive, […]
  • Abraham Maslow, the Father of Humanistic Psychology From the above pyramid, Maslow contributed immensely to the field of psychology because he impacted people’s perception of psychology by introducing the concept of humanistic psychology.
  • “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by C. Dweck Carol Dweck, the author of Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, believes that it can. The growth mindset is something that can be acquired, and it can improve one’s quality of life.
  • Developmental Psychology: Designing Educational Toys Nwokah argues that the educational value of a toy depends on the stage of development of the kid and that toys should be designed in such a way that they align with the child’s developmental […]
  • Self-Efficacy Beliefs and Expectancies – Psychology Self-efficacy determines the beliefs and expectancies of an individual in the control of situations and circumstances. High levels of self-efficacy are responsible for perseverance and pertinacity because individuals hold the belief that they possess the […]
  • The Psychology of Happiness The psychology of happiness is closely related to philosophy, as the science of happiness is based on three major theories, namely “the emotional state theory, the life satisfaction theory, and hedonism”. As far as happiness […]
  • Implications of Theological and Psychological Reflections on Human Behavior The Bible talks about the works of the human flesh which are evident in the commission of sins and also warns about the dire consequences of not inheriting the kingdom of God.
  • Psychology: Health Behavior Change & Reflection I was conscious and mindful of effects caused by anorexia and I wanted to improve my health. I found information about the challenges and risks involved with my health behavior and ways of overcoming them.
  • Development of Structuralism as a Systemic Movement in Psychology However, in his attempts to expand the ideology, Titchener deviated from some of his mentor’s teachings and misrepresented some parts of it.
  • The Psychology of Addictive Behavior This is because of the debilitating effect the activity has on society and the individual. This report will concentrate on the factors of addictions that cause serious harm to society.
  • Psychological Disposition in Sylvia Plath’s Poems The secondary argument supporting the claim of the psychological temperament in Plath’s works is based on the interpretation of her state of mind when she forcefully vilified her father as a Nazi sympathizer.
  • Psychological First Aid for Disaster Victims In this paper, I will discuss some facts that I learned about PFA, consider a major disaster and response to it, and give some recommendations to those who might need to offer psychological aid to […]
  • Good Parents Traits and Raising Children – Psychology Some of the traits of a good parent include being a good listener, readiness to guide, self-discipline, setting time aside to spend with the children, and meeting the physical needs of children. In addition, good […]
  • Theory of Multiple Intelligences – Psychology Binet and Simon later revised their work in 1916 to incorporate the concept of mental age and concluded that intelligence varies depending on mental age.
  • Introduction to Clinical Psychology This means that clinical psychology plays a vital role in promoting the development of mental and behavioral health of patients with mental disabilities.
  • Analysis of the History of Biological Psychology and Its Relationship With Other Psychology Branches Biological psychology is a branch of psychology that applies the principles of biology to the study of behavior that is, the study of psychology in terms of bodily mechanisms.
  • Human Psychology as a One of the Main Objects of Public and Professional Interest The fact that “psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes” sets the stage for understanding the meaning and significance of other concepts, including the relationship between biology and psychology in Chapter 2 […]
  • Psychology in Movies: Stephen Chbosky’s Wonder Therefore, this film is a perfect example of how psychology can be integrated into a movie to raise the audience’s awareness and morale.
  • Love and Memory From a Psychological Point of View The commonly known love types include affection, passionate love, friendship, infatuation, puppy love, sexual love, platonic love, romantic love and many other terms that could be coined out to basically describe love.
  • Women in Psychology: Karen Horney Many traditionalists were incensed and the principle to instruct boys and girls on the same level, with the same method, with the hope of reaching the same goal, is generally viewed as a psychological and […]
  • Attitudes and Behavior in Social Psychology In the light of the social psychology theory, attitudes and behaviors are reciprocally related. Thus, attitudes, under the condition that they are already formed, guide the behavior of a person in a certain direction.
  • Atychiphobia, or the Fear of Failure in Psychology Putting it simply, the fear of failure is the incapability to suppress the anxious and irrational feeling of fear that, as a result, affects one’s life.
  • Posttraumatic Stress Disorders: Psychological Assessment PTSD was adopted by experts in the third revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders to replace terms like “shell shock, nervous shock, and combat fatigue” that described the response to traumatic […]
  • Infants’ Psychology and Development A baby is not aware that they are a separate person; this awareness is a result of a separation-individuation process which begins when the infant finds out that they cannot always be with their mother, […]
  • Cognitive Psychology Definition and Concept These methods have been used by psychologists to determine the functionality of the human brain and account for some of the mental processes behind human behavior. It is through studying behavior that psychologists have been […]
  • Childhood Friendship and Psychology Based on their research, they have founded a theory, according to which it is assumed that the children consider close relationship, appraisals, and sharing common interests as something very important to them and on the […]
  • Social Psychology in Clinics In this regard, there are many theories that have been advanced to further explain the concept, practical and the validity of the social psychology in clinics.
  • Human Psychology in “The Diving Pool” by Yoko Ogawa In the novel Black Rain, the author narrates the manner in which the life of Yasuko that was altered forever as a result of the Hiroshima bombing.
  • Examples of Special Populations in Psychology In professional psychology, particular population defines both children and adults with the following special needs; education, where the majority of the individuals are unable to comprehend and derive full benefits from the curriculum. The special […]
  • Social Psychology and Personality: Lessons Learnt Conformity can help one understand why it is expected in society not to be different and align one’s interests with those of the public.
  • Roles and Functions of School Psychologists In addition, school psychologists play a critical role in promoting the personal and social strengths of the students in the institutions they work to enable them to attain a healthier mindset and well-being.
  • Culture, Emotions, and Psychology Relationships The most profound understanding of the relation of culture to psychology and emotional response starts from defining a culture, which is varied across nations and studies.
  • Historical Impact of Psychology on Human Resource Management Every business is obligated to have a set of several standards and procedures that personnel must adhere to maintain a high level of productivity in the workplace. In the discipline of HRM, psychology is the […]
  • Relationship Between Psychology and Christian Faith Truly, I have realized that sincerity is found in Jesus discipleship and the study of persona, but the varying aspects guiding the honesty are the belief in Christ and analytical thinking.
  • Psychological Aspects of Weightlifting A report on research conducted in 1982, indicates that “Apparently, the more weight training reported by the subjects, the more self-confident and satisfied they tended to be.
  • The Relationship Between Religion and Abnormal Psychology But whose judgment will we use to separate the two contrasting elements of the psychology of normal and abnormal behaviors? Some religious beliefs permit the use of alcohol and it’s considered normal, yet others find […]
  • Abnormal Psychology: Nature of Fear There is a group of disorders which share obvious symptoms and features of fear and anxiety and these are known as anxiety disorders.
  • Positive Psychology: The Science of Happiness Positive psychology is a science of positive features of the life of a human being, including happiness, welfare, and prosperity. According to him, happiness is freedom from pain in the body and a disturbance in […]
  • Anna Freud: Background, Theoretical Perspective and Contributions to the Field of Psychology Anna Freud stressed the importance of education as a co-process in child analysis and put great emphasis on the crucial role that the educator played in motivating the child to actively participate in the educative […]
  • Albert Bandura: An Eminent Psychologist At the school, Bandura notes that most of the learning was left to the initiative of the students as there was lack of teachers as well as resources.
  • Research Methodologies in Industrial Psychology Also, the matrix clearly illustrates that the choice of a particular methodology is shaped by the type of the research to be undertaken.
  • Gestalt Theory as a Psychological Perspective The strengths of Gestalt in counseling include its provision of flexible and phenomenological diagnoses that are focused on the identification of patterns and themes that are specific and unique to an individual client.
  • Psychological Testing: Measuring Personality The selection of the test instruments depends on the variable that is intended to be measured and the projected test scores.
  • Psychological Traps in the Human Decision Making They include the anchoring trap, the status-quo trap, the sunk cost trap, the confirming evidence trap, the framing trap, the overconfidence trap, the prudence trap, and the recall-ability trap.
  • Freud’s Anxiety Neurosis – Psychology The objective of this study is to expose Freud’s anxiety neurosis and to provide a comprehensive approach as to the causes, treatments, and symptoms of the anxiety neurosis.
  • Health Psychology: Eating and Stress’ Relations The aim of the study is to investigate the connection between eating and stress. The results demonstrate the purpose of this study, which is to determine the link between eating and stress.
  • Psychology of Fathers and Daughters Relationships The focus of their study was to establish whether the quality of relationships between fathers and daughters are related in any way with the activities of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, the salivary cortisol, and the autonomic […]
  • Adolescence and Adulthood Developmental Stages – Psychology The onset of adolescence marks the refinement of most individuals’ thinking abilities because at this stage the majority of individuals would have attained control in their thinking process.
  • “Psychology, 10th Edition” by David G. Myers Different theories were developed to explain the relationship between cognition and emotions, one of the most interesting being that of Zajonc, LeDoux, and Lazarus. I am sure that this is one of the best ways […]
  • Definition of Developmental Psychology Developmental psychology is a branch of science which researches and analyses the main peculiarities and stages of the development of a human being.
  • Vision as a Psychology Practitioner-Scholar The set of objectives and goals that will allow me to become a competent specialist include the development of the thorough and in-depth understanding of the psychological theories throughout the years of education, the constant […]
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How to Write a Psychology Essay

Saul McLeod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul McLeod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

Learn about our Editorial Process

Olivia Guy-Evans, MSc

Associate Editor for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MSc Psychology of Education

Olivia Guy-Evans is a writer and associate editor for Simply Psychology. She has previously worked in healthcare and educational sectors.

On This Page:

Before you write your essay, it’s important to analyse the task and understand exactly what the essay question is asking. Your lecturer may give you some advice – pay attention to this as it will help you plan your answer.

Next conduct preliminary reading based on your lecture notes. At this stage, it’s not crucial to have a robust understanding of key theories or studies, but you should at least have a general “gist” of the literature.

After reading, plan a response to the task. This plan could be in the form of a mind map, a summary table, or by writing a core statement (which encompasses the entire argument of your essay in just a few sentences).

After writing your plan, conduct supplementary reading, refine your plan, and make it more detailed.

It is tempting to skip these preliminary steps and write the first draft while reading at the same time. However, reading and planning will make the essay writing process easier, quicker, and ensure a higher quality essay is produced.

Components of a Good Essay

Now, let us look at what constitutes a good essay in psychology. There are a number of important features.
  • Global Structure – structure the material to allow for a logical sequence of ideas. Each paragraph / statement should follow sensibly from its predecessor. The essay should “flow”. The introduction, main body and conclusion should all be linked.
  • Each paragraph should comprise a main theme, which is illustrated and developed through a number of points (supported by evidence).
  • Knowledge and Understanding – recognize, recall, and show understanding of a range of scientific material that accurately reflects the main theoretical perspectives.
  • Critical Evaluation – arguments should be supported by appropriate evidence and/or theory from the literature. Evidence of independent thinking, insight, and evaluation of the evidence.
  • Quality of Written Communication – writing clearly and succinctly with appropriate use of paragraphs, spelling, and grammar. All sources are referenced accurately and in line with APA guidelines.

In the main body of the essay, every paragraph should demonstrate both knowledge and critical evaluation.

There should also be an appropriate balance between these two essay components. Try to aim for about a 60/40 split if possible.

Most students make the mistake of writing too much knowledge and not enough evaluation (which is the difficult bit).

It is best to structure your essay according to key themes. Themes are illustrated and developed through a number of points (supported by evidence).

Choose relevant points only, ones that most reveal the theme or help to make a convincing and interesting argument.

essay structure example

Knowledge and Understanding

Remember that an essay is simply a discussion / argument on paper. Don’t make the mistake of writing all the information you know regarding a particular topic.

You need to be concise, and clearly articulate your argument. A sentence should contain no unnecessary words, a paragraph no unnecessary sentences.

Each paragraph should have a purpose / theme, and make a number of points – which need to be support by high quality evidence. Be clear why each point is is relevant to the argument. It would be useful at the beginning of each paragraph if you explicitly outlined the theme being discussed (.e.g. cognitive development, social development etc.).

Try not to overuse quotations in your essays. It is more appropriate to use original content to demonstrate your understanding.

Psychology is a science so you must support your ideas with evidence (not your own personal opinion). If you are discussing a theory or research study make sure you cite the source of the information.

Note this is not the author of a textbook you have read – but the original source / author(s) of the theory or research study.

For example:

Bowlby (1951) claimed that mothering is almost useless if delayed until after two and a half to three years and, for most children, if delayed till after 12 months, i.e. there is a critical period.
Maslow (1943) stated that people are motivated to achieve certain needs. When one need is fulfilled a person seeks to fullfil the next one, and so on.

As a general rule, make sure there is at least one citation (i.e. name of psychologist and date of publication) in each paragraph.

Remember to answer the essay question. Underline the keywords in the essay title. Don’t make the mistake of simply writing everything you know of a particular topic, be selective. Each paragraph in your essay should contribute to answering the essay question.

Critical Evaluation

In simple terms, this means outlining the strengths and limitations of a theory or research study.

There are many ways you can critically evaluate:

Methodological evaluation of research

Is the study valid / reliable ? Is the sample biased, or can we generalize the findings to other populations? What are the strengths and limitations of the method used and data obtained?

Be careful to ensure that any methodological criticisms are justified and not trite.

Rather than hunting for weaknesses in every study; only highlight limitations that make you doubt the conclusions that the authors have drawn – e.g., where an alternative explanation might be equally likely because something hasn’t been adequately controlled.

Compare or contrast different theories

Outline how the theories are similar and how they differ. This could be two (or more) theories of personality / memory / child development etc. Also try to communicate the value of the theory / study.

Debates or perspectives

Refer to debates such as nature or nurture, reductionism vs. holism, or the perspectives in psychology . For example, would they agree or disagree with a theory or the findings of the study?

What are the ethical issues of the research?

Does a study involve ethical issues such as deception, privacy, psychological or physical harm?

Gender bias

If research is biased towards men or women it does not provide a clear view of the behavior that has been studied. A dominantly male perspective is known as an androcentric bias.

Cultural bias

Is the theory / study ethnocentric? Psychology is predominantly a white, Euro-American enterprise. In some texts, over 90% of studies have US participants, who are predominantly white and middle class.

Does the theory or study being discussed judge other cultures by Western standards?

Animal Research

This raises the issue of whether it’s morally and/or scientifically right to use animals. The main criterion is that benefits must outweigh costs. But benefits are almost always to humans and costs to animals.

Animal research also raises the issue of extrapolation. Can we generalize from studies on animals to humans as their anatomy & physiology is different from humans?

The PEC System

It is very important to elaborate on your evaluation. Don’t just write a shopping list of brief (one or two sentence) evaluation points.

Instead, make sure you expand on your points, remember, quality of evaluation is most important than quantity.

When you are writing an evaluation paragraph, use the PEC system.

  • Make your P oint.
  • E xplain how and why the point is relevant.
  • Discuss the C onsequences / implications of the theory or study. Are they positive or negative?

For Example

  • Point: It is argued that psychoanalytic therapy is only of benefit to an articulate, intelligent, affluent minority.
  • Explain: Because psychoanalytic therapy involves talking and gaining insight, and is costly and time-consuming, it is argued that it is only of benefit to an articulate, intelligent, affluent minority. Evidence suggests psychoanalytic therapy works best if the client is motivated and has a positive attitude.
  • Consequences: A depressed client’s apathy, flat emotional state, and lack of motivation limit the appropriateness of psychoanalytic therapy for depression.

Furthermore, the levels of dependency of depressed clients mean that transference is more likely to develop.

Using Research Studies in your Essays

Research studies can either be knowledge or evaluation.
  • If you refer to the procedures and findings of a study, this shows knowledge and understanding.
  • If you comment on what the studies shows, and what it supports and challenges about the theory in question, this shows evaluation.

Writing an Introduction

It is often best to write your introduction when you have finished the main body of the essay, so that you have a good understanding of the topic area.

If there is a word count for your essay try to devote 10% of this to your introduction.

Ideally, the introduction should;

Identify the subject of the essay and define the key terms. Highlight the major issues which “lie behind” the question. Let the reader know how you will focus your essay by identifying the main themes to be discussed. “Signpost” the essay’s key argument, (and, if possible, how this argument is structured).

Introductions are very important as first impressions count and they can create a h alo effect in the mind of the lecturer grading your essay. If you start off well then you are more likely to be forgiven for the odd mistake later one.

Writing a Conclusion

So many students either forget to write a conclusion or fail to give it the attention it deserves.

If there is a word count for your essay try to devote 10% of this to your conclusion.

Ideally the conclusion should summarize the key themes / arguments of your essay. State the take home message – don’t sit on the fence, instead weigh up the evidence presented in the essay and make a decision which side of the argument has more support.

Also, you might like to suggest what future research may need to be conducted and why (read the discussion section of journal articles for this).

Don”t include new information / arguments (only information discussed in the main body of the essay).

If you are unsure of what to write read the essay question and answer it in one paragraph.

Points that unite or embrace several themes can be used to great effect as part of your conclusion.

The Importance of Flow

Obviously, what you write is important, but how you communicate your ideas / arguments has a significant influence on your overall grade. Most students may have similar information / content in their essays, but the better students communicate this information concisely and articulately.

When you have finished the first draft of your essay you must check if it “flows”. This is an important feature of quality of communication (along with spelling and grammar).

This means that the paragraphs follow a logical order (like the chapters in a novel). Have a global structure with themes arranged in a way that allows for a logical sequence of ideas. You might want to rearrange (cut and paste) paragraphs to a different position in your essay if they don”t appear to fit in with the essay structure.

To improve the flow of your essay make sure the last sentence of one paragraph links to first sentence of the next paragraph. This will help the essay flow and make it easier to read.

Finally, only repeat citations when it is unclear which study / theory you are discussing. Repeating citations unnecessarily disrupts the flow of an essay.

Referencing

The reference section is the list of all the sources cited in the essay (in alphabetical order). It is not a bibliography (a list of the books you used).

In simple terms every time you cite/refer to a name (and date) of a psychologist you need to reference the original source of the information.

If you have been using textbooks this is easy as the references are usually at the back of the book and you can just copy them down. If you have been using websites, then you may have a problem as they might not provide a reference section for you to copy.

References need to be set out APA style :

Author, A. A. (year). Title of work . Location: Publisher.

Journal Articles

Author, A. A., Author, B. B., & Author, C. C. (year). Article title. Journal Title, volume number (issue number), page numbers

A simple way to write your reference section is use Google scholar . Just type the name and date of the psychologist in the search box and click on the “cite” link.

scholar

Next, copy and paste the APA reference into the reference section of your essay.

apa reference

Once again, remember that references need to be in alphabetical order according to surname.

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PSYCH101: Introduction to Psychology

Course introduction.

  • Time: 46 hours
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Course Syllabus

First, read the course syllabus. Then, enroll in the course by clicking "Enroll me". Click Unit 1 to read its introduction and learning outcomes. You will then see the learning materials and instructions on how to use them.

psychology 101 essay topics

Unit 1: Scientific Foundations of Psychology

"Psychology has a long past, but a short history." This statement by Hermann Ebbinghaus (1850–1909), a pioneer of psychological research, captures the history of psychology as a discipline. Although it is a relatively new, formal academic subject, psychology seeks to answer questions that have been around since the beginning of humanity.

In this unit, we review the history of psychology as a discipline. We explore its ancient philosophical, prescientific roots and recent reincarnation as a scientific field of study.

Completing this unit should take you approximately 4 hours.

Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior

What makes you "you"? This question gets to the heart of one of the longest-running debates in psychology: the nurture versus nature dispute, which asks whether humans are a product of their environment or of their biological makeup. While it is unlikely that we will ever conclusively answer this question, research has provided us with some important insights that will help you understand the arguments on both sides of the debate.

Early psychologists considered the brain a black box that controlled certain processes, although they did not know how to identify these processes or how the brain controlled them. This is no longer the case; now, scientists insist that the psychological mind and physiological body are fully integrated with one another. Today, knowledge of the biological origins of our psychological states is integral to the study of psychology.

In this unit, we explore biopsychology, which includes the role of genes, the structure and functions of neurons, the parts of the nervous system, and the endocrine system. Finally, we examine the role and function of sleep and the use of substances that may alter our states of consciousness.

Completing this unit should take you approximately 7 hours.

Unit 3: Sensation and Perception

Our five senses – smell, taste, sight, hearing, and touch – provide us with information about the world. We must convert this information into a form that is usable by the brain, so it can interpret what those sensations mean. The process of collecting information through the sense organs is known as sensation, and the process of making sense of that information is known as perception.

We usually think of sensation as a physiological process, whereas perception is psychological. Since sensation relies on the elements of information that are out in the world, we consider it a bottom-up process. Since perception relies on past experience and knowledge to aid in understanding, we call it a top-down process.

In this unit, we highlight vision and hearing because humans tend to rely most heavily on these senses. Most of the research on sensation and perception has focused on these two senses, so these are the senses we understand the most fully. We will wrap up with the remaining senses, plus a sense that may not seem like a sense – the sense of balance.

Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.

Unit 4: Learning

Psychologists are concerned with how people learn from experience and create memories. During the first half of the 20th century, behaviorists focused on how animals and humans made associations between stimuli and between their own behavior and its consequences. In this unit, we draw from behaviorism to learn the basic principles of learning.

Completing this unit should take you approximately 10 hours.

Unit 5: Cognitive Psychology

Psychologists are concerned with how people create memories. During the second half of the 20th century, psychologists established the field of cognitive psychology, which explored topics such as decision-making and problem-solving; language acquisition and use; intelligence and creative thinking; memory formation, storage, and retrieval; In this unit, we draw from cognitive psychology and neuropsychology to learn the basic principles of cognitive psychology.

Unit 6: Developmental Psychology

The physical, mental, and emotional changes an individual undergoes throughout the course of their lifetime raise a number of questions about who we are and how we develop as human beings. One question is whether our traits are stable or changeable throughout our lifetime; another is whether development is a continuous, gradual process or a set of discrete stages.

Although these questions remain unresolved, we impart some ways you can think critically about these issues in this unit. We also provide an overview of human development, from infancy to old age.

Completing this unit should take you approximately 3 hours.

Unit 7: Motivation, Emotion, and Personality

In this unit, we focus on personality psychology, which studies how our personalities develop and how our experiences and circumstances shape who we are. We will examine some theories that explain why we behave and think in consistent ways and discover how psychologists assess personality traits.

Completing this unit should take you approximately 5 hours.

Unit 8: Clinical Psychology

Today, we commonly think of psychology as a way to treat mental disorders. However, psychopathology , the field of study Sigmund Freud made famous, is the branch of psychology that addresses these disorders. Clinical psychologists have since refined the field, developing more sophisticated methods for diagnosis and treatment so clients can maintain a normal lifestyle.

Millions of people live with various types of mental illness and mental health problems, such as social anxiety , obsessive-compulsive disorder , drug addiction , and personality disorders . Treatment options include medication and psychotherapy.

In this unit, we explore different perspectives on psychological disorders and learn to identify characteristic symptoms for each. Think about all the factors that may contribute to and alleviate the major mental disorders discussed. What is the interplay between biology, social support systems, and other environmental factors in how human beings cope?

Unit 9: Social Psychology

Human beings are social animals. As psychologists, we acknowledge this fact by studying how our social environment impacts our emotional and mental functioning. This discipline is called social psychology – the focus of this unit. We will discuss the social behavior of individuals, groups, and entire societies, as well as how our relationships with these entities influence us as individuals.

Unit 10: Industrial and Organizational Psychology

In this unit, we investigate industrial and organizational psychology , also known as I/O psychology . This subfield is concerned with studying behavior in an organizational setting (such as in the workplace) and using principles of psychology to understand work behaviors. This is a rather new subfield within psychology, but it is growing quickly due to its interesting line of inquiry.

Psychologists divide the subfield of I/O psychology into industrial and   organizational psychology – the terms are not interchangeable. Industrial psychology focuses on job analysis, such as describing and measuring a task or a job. As such, people specializing in industrial psychology are often tasked with writing job requirements, interviewing and hiring employees, training new employees, evaluating performance, and assuring that an organization abides by equality laws.

Organizational psychologists, on the other hand, are mostly concerned with the social aspects of work life. This includes determining how we ensure job satisfaction, examining the effectiveness of different leadership or management styles, exploring work-family balance options, and conducting diversity training.

Unit 11: Health and Stress Psychology

In this unit, we focus on health and stress in the workplace and in our everyday lives more broadly. First, we define stressors, and then we connect stress and illness. As you work through this unit, think about the stressors in your life and the coping mechanisms you use to handle them. How does the information presented here shed insight into how you handle stress? Is stress always negative?

Study Guide

This study guide will help you get ready for the final exam. It discusses the key topics in each unit, walk through the learning outcomes, and list important vocabulary terms. It is not meant to replace the course materials!

psychology 101 essay topics

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Please take a few minutes to give us feedback about this course. We appreciate your feedback, whether you completed the whole course or even just a few resources. Your feedback will help us make our courses better, and we use your feedback each time we make updates to our courses.

If you come across any urgent problems, email [email protected].

psychology 101 essay topics

Certificate Final Exam

Take this exam if you want to earn a free Course Completion Certificate.

To receive a free Course Completion Certificate, you will need to earn a grade of 70% or higher on this final exam. Your grade for the exam will be calculated as soon as you complete it. If you do not pass the exam on your first try, you can take it again as many times as you want, with a 7-day waiting period between each attempt.

Once you pass this final exam, you will be awarded a free Course Completion Certificate .

psychology 101 essay topics

Saylor Direct Credit

Take this exam if you want to earn college credit for this course . This course is eligible for college credit through Saylor Academy's Saylor Direct Credit Program .

The Saylor Direct Credit Final Exam requires a proctoring fee of $5 . To pass this course and earn a Credly Badge and official transcript , you will need to earn a grade of 70% or higher on the Saylor Direct Credit Final Exam. Your grade for this exam will be calculated as soon as you complete it. If you do not pass the exam on your first try, you can take it again a maximum of 3 times , with a 14-day waiting period between each attempt.

We are partnering with SmarterProctoring to help make the proctoring fee more affordable. We will be recording you, your screen, and the audio in your room during the exam. This is an automated proctoring service, but no decisions are automated; recordings are only viewed by our staff with the purpose of making sure it is you taking the exam and verifying any questions about exam integrity. We understand that there are challenges with learning at home - we won't invalidate your exam just because your child ran into the room!

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Saylor Direct Credit Exam

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Essential exam information:

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  • You have up to 3 attempts, but you must wait 14 days between consecutive attempts of this exam.
  • The passing grade is 70% or higher.
  • This exam consists of 52 multiple-choice questions.

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  • Take a deep breath; you got this!

Psychology Research Paper Topics

Academic Writing Service

In addition to the extensive topic list, this page includes valuable guidance on how to choose the right research paper topic, offering practical tips to help you make an informed decision. Moreover, you will find expert advice on how to write a compelling psychology research paper, ensuring that your work meets academic standards and contributes meaningfully to the field. For those seeking additional support, iResearchNet provides custom writing services, offering personalized assistance from expert degree-holding writers to help you succeed in your academic journey.

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Get 10% off with 24start discount code, 300 psychology research paper topics.

Selecting the right research topic is a crucial step in writing a successful psychology research paper. A well-chosen topic not only aligns with your academic and career goals but also sustains your interest and curiosity throughout the research process. This list is carefully curated to cover a broad spectrum of psychology’s subfields, ensuring that every student can find a topic that resonates with their specific interests. Divided into 20 distinct categories, each containing 15 topics, this list offers a diverse range of subjects, from foundational theories to contemporary issues in psychology, providing a solid starting point for your research journey.

  • The Role of Neurotransmitters in Schizophrenia
  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety Disorders
  • The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Mental Health
  • Diagnosing and Treating Bipolar Disorder
  • The Efficacy of Psychodynamic Therapy for Depression
  • The Relationship Between OCD and Perfectionism
  • Gender Differences in the Presentation of Eating Disorders
  • The Role of Genetics in Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Understanding Dissociative Identity Disorder
  • The Effectiveness of Medication vs. Therapy in Treating PTSD
  • Social Stigma and Mental Illness: A Barrier to Treatment
  • The Impact of Substance Abuse on Mental Health
  • Ethical Issues in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Personality Disorders
  • The Role of Sleep Disorders in Mental Health
  • Early Intervention in Childhood Behavioral Disorders
  • The Process of Memory Encoding and Retrieval
  • The Role of Working Memory in Problem Solving
  • The Effects of Aging on Cognitive Function
  • Cognitive Biases in Decision Making
  • Language Acquisition in Early Childhood
  • The Influence of Attention on Perception
  • The Impact of Multitasking on Cognitive Performance
  • The Role of Executive Function in Learning
  • Cognitive Processing in Dyslexia
  • The Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Performance
  • The Role of Emotions in Memory Formation
  • The Impact of Bilingualism on Cognitive Development
  • Cognitive Theories of Intelligence
  • The Neural Basis of Language Processing
  • The Effect of Cognitive Load on Learning and Memory
  • Stages of Cognitive Development in Children
  • The Role of Parenting Styles in Child Development
  • Adolescent Identity Formation and Its Challenges
  • The Impact of Early Childhood Education on Development
  • The Effects of Divorce on Child Development
  • Understanding Attachment Theory in Development
  • The Influence of Peer Relationships on Adolescence
  • The Role of Play in Cognitive Development
  • The Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Child Development
  • Language Development in Bilingual Children
  • Aging and Cognitive Decline: Causes and Interventions
  • The Role of Genetics vs. Environment in Development
  • The Impact of Technology on Child Development
  • The Development of Moral Reasoning in Children
  • Understanding Gender Identity Development in Children
  • The Role of Social Influence on Behavior
  • The Psychology of Groupthink and Decision Making
  • The Impact of Social Media on Self-Esteem
  • Understanding Prejudice and Discrimination
  • The Role of Stereotypes in Shaping Perceptions
  • The Influence of Group Dynamics on Behavior
  • The Psychology of Persuasion and Attitude Change
  • The Role of Social Support in Mental Health
  • Understanding Aggression and Its Causes
  • The Impact of Cultural Norms on Social Behavior
  • The Role of Leadership in Group Behavior
  • The Effects of Social Isolation on Mental Health
  • The Psychology of Altruism and Prosocial Behavior
  • The Influence of Social Identity on Behavior
  • Understanding the Bystander Effect in Emergency Situations
  • The Efficacy of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Depression
  • Understanding the Therapeutic Alliance in Psychotherapy
  • The Role of Clinical Assessment in Diagnosis
  • The Use of Mindfulness-Based Therapies in Clinical Practice
  • The Impact of Trauma-Focused Therapy on PTSD
  • The Role of Medication in the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders
  • Understanding the Process of Grief Counseling
  • The Use of Play Therapy with Children
  • The Role of Family Therapy in Treating Eating Disorders
  • The Ethics of Clinical Practice in Psychology
  • The Effectiveness of Group Therapy for Substance Abuse
  • The Role of Psychotherapy in Treating Personality Disorders
  • The Impact of Cultural Competence in Clinical Practice
  • The Use of Biofeedback in Treating Anxiety and Stress
  • The Role of Clinical Supervision in Therapist Development
  • The Neural Basis of Memory and Learning
  • The Role of Neuroplasticity in Brain Recovery
  • The Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury on Cognitive Function
  • Understanding the Neurobiology of Depression
  • The Role of Neuroimaging in Diagnosing Neurological Disorders
  • The Effects of Neurodegenerative Diseases on Cognitive Function
  • The Neural Basis of Language Disorders
  • The Role of Genetics in Neurological Disorders
  • The Impact of Stroke on Cognitive and Motor Function
  • Understanding the Neural Mechanisms of Pain Perception
  • The Role of the Prefrontal Cortex in Decision Making
  • The Effects of Chronic Stress on Brain Function
  • The Role of Neurotransmitters in Mental Health
  • Understanding the Neural Basis of Addiction
  • The Impact of Sleep Disorders on Brain Function
  • The Role of Psychological Profiling in Criminal Investigations
  • Understanding the Insanity Defense in Criminal Trials
  • The Impact of Childhood Abuse on Criminal Behavior
  • The Role of Forensic Psychology in Jury Selection
  • The Use of Risk Assessment in Predicting Criminal Behavior
  • The Psychology of False Confessions
  • Understanding the Role of Expert Witnesses in Court
  • The Impact of Substance Abuse on Criminal Behavior
  • The Role of Eyewitness Testimony in Criminal Cases
  • Understanding the Psychology of Serial Killers
  • The Use of Psychological Testing in Forensic Evaluations
  • The Role of Mental Illness in Criminal Behavior
  • The Impact of Correctional Psychology on Inmate Rehabilitation
  • Understanding the Ethics of Forensic Psychology Practice
  • The Role of Psychology in Child Custody Disputes
  • The Role of Stress in Physical Health
  • Understanding the Psychology of Chronic Illness
  • The Impact of Health Behaviors on Well-being
  • The Role of Psychological Interventions in Pain Management
  • The Impact of Smoking Cessation Programs on Health Outcomes
  • Understanding the Psychology of Eating Disorders
  • The Role of Exercise in Mental Health
  • The Impact of Psychological Factors on Heart Disease
  • The Role of Mind-Body Interventions in Health Care
  • Understanding the Psychological Impact of Cancer Diagnosis
  • The Role of Social Support in Health Outcomes
  • The Impact of Sleep on Physical and Mental Health
  • The Psychology of Obesity and Weight Management
  • Understanding the Role of Health Psychology in Public Health
  • The Impact of Psychological Stress on Immune Function
  • The Role of Motivation in Academic Achievement
  • Understanding Learning Styles and Their Impact on Education
  • The Impact of Teacher Expectations on Student Performance
  • The Role of Educational Assessments in Learning
  • Understanding the Impact of Classroom Environment on Learning
  • The Role of Parental Involvement in Education
  • The Impact of Technology on Learning and Teaching
  • The Role of Special Education in Academic Achievement
  • Understanding the Effects of Bullying on Academic Performance
  • The Role of Cognitive Development in Education
  • The Impact of Homework on Student Learning
  • Understanding the Role of Self-Efficacy in Education
  • The Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Academic Achievement
  • The Role of Peer Relationships in Learning
  • Understanding the Impact of Emotional Intelligence on Academic Success
  • The Role of Motivation in Workplace Productivity
  • Understanding the Impact of Leadership Styles on Employee Performance
  • The Role of Organizational Culture in Employee Satisfaction
  • The Impact of Job Stress on Employee Well-being
  • Understanding the Role of Employee Engagement in Organizational Success
  • The Impact of Work-Life Balance on Job Satisfaction
  • The Role of Training and Development in Employee Performance
  • Understanding the Effects of Workplace Diversity on Team Dynamics
  • The Role of Performance Appraisal in Employee Development
  • The Impact of Organizational Change on Employee Behavior
  • Understanding the Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
  • The Impact of Workplace Harassment on Employee Well-being
  • The Role of Motivation Theories in Employee Performance
  • Understanding the Effects of Job Satisfaction on Employee Turnover
  • The Role of Industrial-Organizational Psychology in Human Resource Management
  • The Role of Genetics in Personality Development
  • Understanding the Big Five Personality Traits
  • The Impact of Personality on Behavior and Relationships
  • The Role of Personality in Mental Health
  • Understanding the Influence of Culture on Personality
  • The Impact of Personality on Career Choice and Success
  • The Role of Personality Assessments in Psychological Testing
  • Understanding the Development of Personality Disorders
  • The Impact of Parenting on Personality Development
  • The Role of Personality in Academic Achievement
  • Understanding the Relationship Between Personality and Intelligence
  • The Impact of Personality on Leadership Styles
  • The Role of Personality in Romantic Relationships
  • Understanding the Effects of Personality on Stress and Coping
  • The Impact of Social Media on Personality Expression
  • The Role of Psychological Testing in Clinical Diagnosis
  • Understanding the Reliability and Validity of Psychological Tests
  • The Impact of Cultural Bias in Psychological Testing
  • The Role of Item Response Theory in Test Development
  • Understanding the Use of Factor Analysis in Psychological Research
  • The Impact of Test Anxiety on Performance
  • The Role of Standardization in Psychological Testing
  • Understanding the Ethics of Psychological Testing
  • The Impact of Computerized Testing on Assessment Practices
  • The Role of Test Scores in Educational Placement Decisions
  • Understanding the Development of Intelligence Tests
  • The Impact of Personality Assessments on Employment Decisions
  • The Role of Psychometric Testing in Forensic Evaluations
  • Understanding the Use of Projective Tests in Clinical Practice
  • The Impact of Test Interpretation on Clinical Decision Making
  • The Role of Neurotransmitters in Mood Regulation
  • Understanding the Biological Basis of Addiction
  • The Impact of Hormones on Behavior
  • The Role of Genetics in Mental Health Disorders
  • Understanding the Neural Basis of Emotion
  • The Impact of Brain Injury on Behavior and Cognition
  • The Role of the Endocrine System in Behavior
  • Understanding the Biological Basis of Aggression
  • The Impact of Neurotransmitters on Sleep and Wakefulness
  • The Role of the Immune System in Mental Health
  • Understanding the Biological Basis of Anxiety Disorders
  • The Impact of Stress on the Brain and Behavior
  • The Role of Brain Imaging in Psychological Research
  • Understanding the Biological Basis of Learning and Memory
  • The Impact of Genetics on Intelligence
  • The Role of Experimental Design in Psychological Research
  • Understanding the Ethics of Experimental Research
  • The Impact of Randomization on Research Outcomes
  • The Role of Control Groups in Experimental Psychology
  • Understanding the Use of Placebos in Psychological Research
  • The Impact of Experimenter Bias on Research Results
  • The Role of Double-Blind Studies in Psychology
  • Understanding the Use of Animal Models in Psychological Research
  • The Impact of Experimental Psychology on Clinical Practice
  • The Role of Laboratory Experiments in Cognitive Research
  • Understanding the Use of Longitudinal Studies in Psychology
  • The Impact of Field Experiments on Social Psychology
  • The Role of Ethical Review Boards in Experimental Research
  • Understanding the Use of Case Studies in Experimental Psychology
  • The Impact of Replication on the Validity of Psychological Research
  • The Role of the Therapeutic Relationship in Counseling
  • Understanding the Use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Counseling
  • The Impact of Counseling on Mental Health Outcomes
  • The Role of Multicultural Competence in Counseling Practice
  • Understanding the Use of Group Counseling in Treatment
  • The Impact of Trauma-Informed Counseling on Clients
  • The Role of Career Counseling in Personal Development
  • Understanding the Use of Family Counseling in Treating Dysfunction
  • The Impact of Online Counseling on Accessibility of Care
  • The Role of Play Therapy in Child Counseling
  • Understanding the Use of Motivational Interviewing in Counseling
  • The Impact of Crisis Counseling on Immediate Psychological Support
  • The Role of Counseling in Substance Abuse Treatment
  • Understanding the Use of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy in Counseling
  • The Impact of Ethical Considerations on Counseling Practice
  • The Role of Culture in Shaping Psychological Processes
  • Understanding the Impact of Cultural Norms on Behavior
  • The Role of Acculturation in Identity Formation
  • The Impact of Cultural Differences on Communication Styles
  • Understanding the Role of Cultural Values in Decision Making
  • The Role of Religion in Cultural Psychology
  • Understanding the Impact of Globalization on Cultural Identity
  • The Role of Ethnocentrism in Cultural Perception
  • The Impact of Cultural Diversity on Social Behavior
  • Understanding the Role of Cultural Competence in Clinical Practice
  • The Impact of Migration on Psychological Well-being
  • The Role of Cultural Beliefs in Health Behaviors
  • Understanding the Impact of Cultural Stereotypes on Behavior
  • The Role of Language in Cultural Identity
  • The Impact of Cultural Context on Cognitive Processes
  • The Role of Environment on Human Behavior
  • Understanding the Psychological Impact of Climate Change
  • The Impact of Urbanization on Mental Health
  • The Role of Green Spaces in Psychological Well-being
  • Understanding the Use of Environmental Design in Promoting Well-being
  • The Impact of Environmental Stressors on Behavior
  • The Role of Environmental Psychology in Disaster Response
  • Understanding the Impact of Noise Pollution on Cognitive Function
  • The Role of Architecture in Influencing Behavior
  • The Impact of Natural Disasters on Mental Health
  • Understanding the Psychological Effects of Overcrowding
  • The Role of Environmental Awareness in Behavior Change
  • The Impact of Climate Change on Community Mental Health
  • Understanding the Role of Environmental Psychology in Sustainable Behavior
  • The Impact of Environmental Design on Learning and Performance
  • The Role of Motivation in Athletic Performance
  • Understanding the Impact of Anxiety on Sports Performance
  • The Role of Goal Setting in Sports Achievement
  • The Impact of Team Dynamics on Sports Success
  • Understanding the Use of Mental Imagery in Sports Performance
  • The Role of Coaching Style on Athlete Motivation
  • The Impact of Stress on Athletic Performance
  • Understanding the Role of Sports Psychology in Injury Rehabilitation
  • The Impact of Self-Confidence on Sports Performance
  • The Role of Psychological Skills Training in Sports
  • Understanding the Use of Biofeedback in Sports Psychology
  • The Impact of Personality on Athletic Success
  • The Role of Sports Psychology in Youth Sports Development
  • Understanding the Impact of Performance Anxiety on Athletes
  • The Role of Team Cohesion in Sports Success
  • The Role of Gratitude in Enhancing Well-being
  • Understanding the Impact of Positive Emotions on Health
  • The Role of Strength-Based Interventions in Therapy
  • The Impact of Mindfulness on Psychological Well-being
  • Understanding the Use of Positive Psychology in Education
  • The Role of Optimism in Coping with Adversity
  • The Impact of Social Connections on Happiness
  • Understanding the Role of Resilience in Mental Health
  • The Impact of Positive Psychology on Workplace Satisfaction
  • The Role of Flow in Enhancing Performance
  • Understanding the Use of Positive Interventions in Therapy
  • The Impact of Altruism on Psychological Well-being
  • The Role of Positive Psychology in Aging Well
  • Understanding the Impact of Character Strengths on Happiness
  • The Role of Positive Psychology in Building Strong Relationships
  • The Role of Antidepressants in Treating Depression
  • Understanding the Impact of Antipsychotics on Mental Health
  • The Role of Psychostimulants in Treating ADHD
  • The Impact of Benzodiazepines on Anxiety Disorders
  • Understanding the Use of Mood Stabilizers in Bipolar Disorder
  • The Role of SSRIs in Treating Anxiety Disorders
  • The Impact of Substance Abuse on Brain Function
  • Understanding the Use of Medication in Treating Schizophrenia
  • The Role of Pharmacotherapy in Addiction Treatment
  • The Impact of Drug Interactions on Mental Health
  • Understanding the Use of Psychotropic Medications in Children
  • The Role of Pharmacogenetics in Psychopharmacology
  • The Impact of Long-Term Medication Use on Cognitive Function
  • Understanding the Ethics of Psychopharmacological Treatment
  • The Role of Medication in Treating Sleep Disorders

This extensive list of psychology research paper topics reflects the diversity and richness of the field. From exploring fundamental theories to delving into modern-day challenges, these topics cover a wide range of interests and academic pursuits. As you browse through the categories, consider the topics that resonate most with your personal and professional goals. Choosing a topic that genuinely excites you will not only make the research process more enjoyable but also allow you to contribute meaningfully to the ever-evolving discipline of psychology.

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Psychology and the Range of Research Paper Topics It Offers

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior, encompassing a wide range of phenomena, from the biological underpinnings of cognition to the complex social interactions that shape our experiences. As a scientific discipline, psychology plays a crucial role in understanding human behavior, providing insights that help improve mental health, enhance education, and inform public policy. The field is incredibly diverse, offering numerous branches that explore different aspects of human thought and behavior. From cognitive psychology, which delves into how we process information, to social psychology, which examines how we interact with others, the range of research areas within psychology is vast and continually expanding.

Historical Context

Psychology as a scientific discipline has a rich and varied history. It emerged in the late 19th century, with the establishment of the first psychology laboratory by Wilhelm Wundt in 1879, marking the formal beginning of psychology as a distinct field of study. Early psychologists like Wundt and William James focused on understanding consciousness and the basic elements of human experience. Over time, the field expanded to include various approaches and perspectives, such as behaviorism, which emphasized observable behavior, and psychoanalysis, pioneered by Sigmund Freud, which explored the unconscious mind. As psychology evolved, it began to incorporate more scientific methods and diversified into numerous subfields, each focusing on different aspects of human behavior and mental processes.

Core Areas of Psychology

Psychology today is a multifaceted discipline, with several core areas that each contribute to our understanding of the human mind and behavior.

  • Cognitive Psychology focuses on mental processes such as perception, memory, and problem-solving. It seeks to understand how people acquire, process, and store information, offering insights that are applicable in fields ranging from education to artificial intelligence.
  • Developmental Psychology examines how people grow and change throughout their lives, from infancy to old age. This branch explores physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development, providing valuable information for improving educational practices and understanding the aging process.
  • Social Psychology explores how individuals are influenced by their social environment. It investigates topics such as group behavior, social perception, and interpersonal relationships, which are critical for understanding societal issues like prejudice, conformity, and leadership.
  • Clinical Psychology is focused on diagnosing and treating mental illness. It combines science and practice to address psychological disorders, offering therapies and interventions that improve mental health outcomes for individuals and communities.
  • Biological Psychology (or biopsychology) investigates the biological underpinnings of behavior, examining how the brain and nervous system influence our thoughts, feelings, and actions. This area is particularly important in understanding the physiological basis of mental health disorders and developing pharmacological treatments.

These core areas of psychology form the foundation of the discipline and are highly relevant in contemporary research. Each offers unique insights into different facets of human behavior, making them essential for advancing our understanding of the mind.

Emerging Trends in Psychology Research

While the core areas of psychology provide a solid foundation, the field is also evolving to include emerging trends and interdisciplinary research areas that address modern challenges.

  • Neuropsychology is one such area, focusing on the relationship between the brain and behavior. By studying brain injuries, neurological disorders, and brain imaging techniques, neuropsychologists gain insights into how brain function affects cognitive processes and behavior, leading to more effective treatments for conditions like traumatic brain injury and dementia.
  • Psychopharmacology explores the effects of drugs on the mind and behavior. This area is critical for developing medications that treat mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. Research in psychopharmacology not only enhances our understanding of how different substances affect the brain but also contributes to the development of new therapeutic approaches.
  • Positive Psychology is another emerging field that shifts the focus from mental illness to mental wellness. It explores what makes life worth living, investigating topics like happiness, resilience, and personal strengths. Positive psychology has gained traction in recent years, influencing areas such as education, workplace productivity, and mental health care by promoting well-being and flourishing.

Interdisciplinary research is also becoming increasingly important in psychology. By integrating knowledge from fields such as neuroscience, sociology, and anthropology, psychologists can address complex issues that require a holistic approach. For example, understanding the impact of digital technology on mental health involves combining insights from cognitive psychology, social psychology, and communication studies. This interdisciplinary approach not only broadens the scope of psychological research but also enhances its applicability in solving real-world problems.

Importance of Research in Psychology

Research is the cornerstone of psychology, driving the advancement of knowledge and the development of evidence-based practices. Through research, psychologists can test theories, explore new ideas, and apply their findings to improve various aspects of human life. In clinical settings, research is essential for developing effective therapies and interventions, ensuring that treatments are based on scientific evidence rather than anecdotal reports. In educational psychology, research informs teaching strategies and educational policies, helping to create learning environments that foster student success.

Moreover, research in psychology contributes to public health by identifying factors that influence mental well-being and developing programs to prevent mental illness. For example, studies on the impact of stress on health have led to interventions that reduce stress and improve overall well-being, benefiting both individuals and society as a whole.

Psychology research also plays a critical role in addressing societal challenges. By studying topics such as prejudice, discrimination, and social inequality, psychologists can inform policies and programs that promote social justice and equality. This highlights the broader impact of psychological research, extending beyond the individual to benefit communities and societies.

The field of psychology offers a vast array of research paper topics, reflecting its diversity and depth as a scientific discipline. From traditional areas like cognitive and developmental psychology to emerging fields such as neuropsychology and positive psychology, the range of research opportunities is immense. For students, selecting a research topic in psychology is not just about fulfilling an academic requirement; it is an opportunity to explore their interests, contribute to the field, and potentially make a difference in the lives of others. Whether you are passionate about understanding the brain, improving mental health care, or exploring the complexities of human behavior, psychology offers a research area that aligns with your goals. As you embark on your research journey, choose a topic that excites you and challenges you to think critically, paving the way for a rewarding academic and professional career in psychology.

How to Choose Psychology Research Paper Topics

Choosing the right research paper topic in psychology is a critical step in ensuring the success of your academic work. A well-selected topic not only keeps you engaged throughout the research process but also contributes meaningfully to the field of psychology. The topic you choose should be both interesting to you and academically relevant, allowing you to explore an area that sparks your curiosity while meeting the requirements of your course. With the vast array of possibilities in psychology, it’s essential to approach this decision thoughtfully and strategically.

Tips for Choosing a Psychology Research Paper Topic

  • Identify Your Interests: Begin by considering what aspects of psychology intrigue you the most. Whether it’s cognitive processes, developmental stages, or social dynamics, focusing on a topic that genuinely interests you will make the research process more enjoyable and fulfilling. Your passion for the subject will also be reflected in the quality of your work.
  • Consider the Scope: It’s important to select a topic with an appropriate scope—neither too broad nor too narrow. A broad topic may be overwhelming and difficult to cover comprehensively, while a narrow topic might not provide enough material for a thorough analysis. Aim for a balance that allows you to explore the topic in depth within the constraints of your paper.
  • Check Available Resources: Before finalizing your topic, ensure that there is enough research material available. A topic with limited resources can lead to frustration as you struggle to find enough credible sources. Check academic journals, books, and online databases to confirm that your topic is well-supported by existing research.
  • Review Recent Literature: Stay current by reviewing the latest studies and publications in your area of interest. This will not only help you identify a timely and relevant topic but also give you insights into emerging trends and gaps in the research that you could address in your paper.
  • Consult Your Professor: Your professor is an invaluable resource when choosing a research topic. They can provide feedback on your ideas, suggest potential areas of focus, and help you refine your topic to ensure it meets the academic standards of your course. Don’t hesitate to seek their guidance early in the process.
  • Evaluate Relevance: Choose a topic that contributes to the field of psychology. Whether it’s advancing theoretical knowledge, offering new insights, or addressing a practical issue, your research should add value to the discipline. Consider how your topic fits within the broader context of psychological research and its implications for practice or policy.
  • Consider the Audience: Think about who will be reading your paper. Select a topic that will engage your audience, whether they are fellow students, professors, or professionals in the field. A topic that resonates with your readers will make your paper more impactful and memorable.
  • Reflect on Future Career Goals: If you have specific career aspirations within psychology, choose a topic that aligns with these goals. For example, if you’re interested in clinical psychology, consider topics related to mental health disorders or therapeutic interventions. This approach not only enhances your knowledge in your desired field but also strengthens your resume or CV for future job or graduate school applications.
  • Explore Unanswered Questions: One of the most exciting aspects of research is the opportunity to explore unanswered questions or gaps in existing literature. Look for areas where there is a lack of consensus or where further investigation is needed. By addressing these gaps, you can contribute original findings to the field.
  • Stay Flexible: Research is an evolving process, and you may discover new information that prompts you to adjust your topic. Stay open to refining or slightly altering your focus as you gather more data and insights. Flexibility allows you to respond to new developments and ensures that your paper remains relevant and well-informed.

Selecting a psychology research paper topic requires careful consideration and thoughtful planning. By taking the time to choose a topic that aligns with your interests, academic goals, and available resources, you set the stage for a successful and rewarding research experience. Remember, the right topic will not only keep you motivated throughout the process but also enable you to produce a paper that contributes meaningfully to the field of psychology. Take the time to explore your options, seek guidance when needed, and choose a topic that you are passionate about—this will ultimately lead to a more engaging and impactful research paper.

How to Write a Psychology Research Paper

Psychology Research Paper Topics

Tips for Writing a Psychology Research Paper

  • Start with a Strong Thesis: Your thesis statement is the foundation of your research paper. It should clearly define your research question or hypothesis, providing a focused direction for your study. A well-defined thesis helps guide your research and ensures that your paper has a clear and specific purpose. Take the time to craft a thesis that is both precise and debatable, setting the stage for a compelling argument.
  • Create an Outline: Before you begin writing, create an outline to organize the structure of your paper. An outline serves as a roadmap, helping you arrange your ideas logically and ensuring that you cover all necessary points. Include sections for the introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. This framework will help you stay on track and maintain a coherent flow throughout your paper.
  • Conduct Thorough Research: A strong psychology research paper is built on a foundation of thorough and credible research. Use a variety of sources, including academic journals, books, and reputable online databases, to gather information that supports your thesis. Ensure that your sources are up-to-date and relevant to your topic. Take detailed notes and organize your references to make the writing process smoother.
  • Write Clearly and Concisely: Clarity and conciseness are key in academic writing. Avoid using jargon or overly complex language that might confuse your readers. Instead, aim to express your ideas in a straightforward and accessible manner. Each paragraph should convey a single idea or argument, and transitions between paragraphs should be smooth and logical. This approach helps ensure that your paper is easy to read and understand.
  • Cite Your Sources Properly: Proper citation is crucial in academic writing to avoid plagiarism and give credit to the original authors. Familiarize yourself with the required citation style for your paper, whether it’s APA, MLA, Chicago, or another format, and consistently apply it throughout your work. Accurate citations not only enhance the credibility of your paper but also allow readers to locate the sources you used.
  • Maintain a Logical Flow: Your research paper should have a clear and logical structure, with each section building on the previous one. Start with a strong introduction that presents your thesis and outlines the structure of your paper. The body of your paper should provide a detailed exploration of your research question, supported by evidence and analysis. Conclude with a summary of your findings and their implications for the field of psychology. Maintaining a logical flow ensures that your paper is cohesive and persuasive.
  • Review and Revise: Writing is a process that often involves multiple drafts. After completing your first draft, take the time to review and revise your work. Look for areas where your arguments can be strengthened, where transitions can be made smoother, or where clarity can be improved. Don’t hesitate to rewrite sections to enhance the overall quality of your paper. Revising is an essential step in producing a polished and well-argued research paper.
  • Seek Feedback: Before submitting your paper, seek feedback from peers, mentors, or professors. A fresh pair of eyes can help identify areas for improvement that you might have missed. Constructive criticism can be invaluable in refining your arguments, improving the clarity of your writing, and ensuring that your paper meets academic standards.
  • Proofread: Proofreading is the final step in the writing process and is essential for catching grammatical errors, typos, and formatting issues. Carefully review your paper to ensure that it is free from mistakes that could detract from its professionalism and readability. Consider reading your paper aloud or using a proofreading tool to catch errors that might be missed during a standard read-through.
  • Stay Ethical: Maintaining academic integrity is crucial when writing a research paper. Always ensure that you properly attribute ideas and information to their original sources, and avoid any form of plagiarism. Additionally, if your research involves human or animal subjects, adhere to ethical guidelines and obtain the necessary approvals. Ethical writing practices not only uphold the standards of the academic community but also ensure that your research is respected and credible.

Writing a successful psychology research paper involves careful planning, thorough research, and diligent revision. By following these key steps and tips, you can approach the writing process with confidence and produce a paper that contributes meaningfully to the field of psychology. Remember, the effort you invest in selecting a strong thesis, conducting in-depth research, and polishing your final draft will pay off in the quality of your work. As you navigate this process, stay focused, seek support when needed, and maintain a commitment to academic integrity. With these principles in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to produce a research paper that is both academically rigorous and personally rewarding.

iResearchNet’s Writing Services

At iResearchNet, we understand that writing a psychology research paper can be a daunting task, especially when juggling multiple assignments and responsibilities. That’s why we offer custom research paper writing services tailored to meet the unique needs of psychology students. Whether you’re struggling to find the right topic, need help with in-depth research, or require assistance with formatting and structure, our team of expert writers is here to support you. By ordering a custom paper from iResearchNet, you can save time, reduce stress, and ensure that your research is of the highest academic quality.

  • Expert Degree-Holding Writers: Our team consists of writers who hold advanced degrees in psychology, ensuring that your paper is crafted by someone with deep knowledge and expertise in the field. This guarantees that your research is both accurate and insightful, reflecting the latest developments in psychology.
  • Custom Written Works: Each paper we produce is tailored to meet the specific requirements of your assignment. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions; instead, we take the time to understand your needs and create a paper that is uniquely yours.
  • In-Depth Research: Our writers conduct thorough research on your chosen topic, using credible and up-to-date sources. This ensures that your paper is well-supported by evidence and provides a comprehensive exploration of the subject matter.
  • Custom Formatting: We format your paper according to the required citation style, whether it’s APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard. Proper formatting is crucial for academic success, and we ensure that every detail is correctly applied.
  • Top Quality: We are committed to delivering papers of the highest academic standards. Our rigorous quality control process includes multiple rounds of editing and proofreading to ensure that your paper is free of errors and meets all academic requirements.
  • Customized Solutions: We recognize that every project is different, which is why we offer personalized solutions that cater to your specific needs. Whether you need help with a particular section of your paper or a full-scale research project, we can provide the support you need.
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Choosing iResearchNet for your psychology research paper needs offers a host of benefits, from expert writing and in-depth research to personalized service and timely delivery. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction ensures that you receive a paper that meets the highest academic standards, tailored specifically to your requirements. If you’re looking for reliable and professional assistance with your next psychology research paper, consider iResearchNet as your partner in academic success. Let us help you achieve your goals and take the stress out of the research paper writing process.

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psychology 101 essay topics

200+ Psychology Essay Topics for College Students

Published by Denis on March 1, 2021 March 1, 2021

Psychology Essay Topics

Psychology is an important science that explores human actions and behavior; what motivates a person to act in the way he/she does? What are the factors that influence a person’s outlook in life, and interactions with other people? Numerous behavioral scientists have delved into psychology, but there is still so much that presents research and discussion opportunities. There are evergreen areas for essay topics psychology to be explored and documented.

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Understanding the human brain is the primary goal of psychology. But, many scholars usually find it challenging to comprehend the mind entirely. As the body’s most mysterious organ, the brain requires in-depth studies. Scientists often put several sub-disciplines in psychology that help them understand human action and behavior. In this post, we have compiled a detailed list of the top 100+ psychology essay topics for college students and scholars.

Writing an Essay on Psychology

Studying a subject involves research and documentation on a term, idea, phrase, or concept. An essay on a psychology topic puts this in written form, where the author explains the literal or definite meanings of the findings.

Psychology is largely an abstract science as opposed to say Organic chemistry. This is why it is always important to remain objective while writing definitive essays on psychology. This is only possible with excellent research and careful analysis. Still, once in a while, you might need a fast turnaround for your essay. When it comes to that, consider hiring a  Psychology essay writing service  that takes into account professionalism, quality, and deadlines.

Psychology Research Essay Topics for You

Psychology research topics can be divided in tandem with the discipline. Some of the significant disciplines of psychology include; cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, clinical psychology, educational psychology, and analytical psychology. In this guide, we shall help you find specific essay topics for every branch of psychology:

Also once you have chosen a suitable topic for your essay, ensure that you comprehend how you should be able to write an excellent Psychology Paper.

Analytical Psychology Essay Topics

This theory of human personality and the human brain views individuals’ behaviors as the full collection of their conscious and unconscious mind. Analytical psychology allows for archetypes that determine individual personalities. Here are some interesting analytical psychology topics you can research or write about:

  • How money affects behavior in marriage and gender in different stereotypes.
  • How can social media change the morality of a society?
  • Describe the psychological concepts of Yang and Yin.
  • Why is it easy for women to confirm naturally than men?
  • In what ways can employers help the employees to reduce stress?
  • Explain how different scientists explain homosexuality in their era.
  • Explain the psychological challenges that single parents have when raising a child.
  • Define the concept of self, as described by William James.
  • What are personality and its structures, according to Sigmund Freud?
  • Describe the psychology of dreams as well as their origin and development.
  • Why is it that more men in the community are mad or commit suicide than women?
  • Outline the psychological advantages of a parent breastfeeding their kids.
  • Explain the multiple intelligences child development Theory as given by Howard Gardner.
  • Describe the concept of money in gender and marriages.
  • Explain how you can maintain and not lose your personality at your workplace.
  • Define psychological health.
  • What are the main characteristics of a person who psychologically healthy?
  • Which psychological processes come to play when a person wants to participate in an intentional buying exercise?
  • Why do the majority of people need long-term relationships with other people?
  • In which ways does bullying among adolescents become normal that abnormal for adults?
  • How can you make your kid unique?
  • In what ways can you make sure that your kid grows in a morally upright way?

Research Essay Topics for Developmental Psychology

In brief, developmental psychology ventures are trying to find out how people behave in different stages and ages of their lives. In the past, developmental psychology was limited to children, but; later, it started to cover adolescence and adults. It brings out the concept of surviving growing developing and aging. Here are some developmental psychology essay topics for you:

  • Why do toddlers and get in fights?
  • What is the role of games in the mental competence of an adolescent?
  • Explain how moral judgment and reflective judgment develop in the mind of an individual.
  • How can you prevent child suicides?
  • What is the best way to solve a family conflict?
  • Describe the psychological status of someone who has been abused at the family level.
  • Explain aggression and how it manifests in children.
  • In which ways are boys raised by single parents different from other kids?
  • Why do “mummy’s boys” tend to show aggressive behavior, and what does this manifest in their personal development?
  • How does self-confidence develop in middle childhood from the age of 7 to 11?
  • Explain the change in roles between men and women in society today.
  • Define personal and social-emotional development, especially in old-age.
  • Illustrate the influence that mass media has had on the formation of a kid’s personality.
  • What are the psychological characteristics of adolescents who live with divorced parents?
  • How do gender roles positively or negatively influence our relationships in a family set up?
  • Explain masculinity and paternity as the primary personal determinants in parenthood.
  • Give the history of dyslexia and its causes. Also, review different methods of diagnosis and treatment of dyslexia.

Cognitive Psychology Essay Topics

Cognitive psychology is a branch of science that deals with the human brain. The study tries to understand how the mind can process and execute different actions. For example, cognitive psychology deals with language use and acquisition, memory, creativity, perception, and critical thinking. Here are some of the best topics you can write about in your cognitive essay paper:

  • Explain how human beings make choices and illustrate the decision-making process.
  • Which of the psychological mechanisms involved, especially in a deja vu effect?
  • How does attention influence the effective development and execution of cognitive processes?
  • Discuss the dual-process theory of thinking.
  • How does power loads moving in different directions influence short-term memory?
  • Define cryptomnesia.
  • Explain confabulation and paramnesia.
  • Explain how you can offer socio-psychological training using art- therapeutic techniques.
  • How does music affect cognitive development in primary school children?
  • How do social expectations for gifted children influence the kids’ self-esteem?
  • Describe the cognitive psychology of loneliness.
  • Discuss the Buddhism approach to cognitive psychology.
  • How does the media influence adolescent behaviors?
  • Describe emotional responsiveness.
  • Explain the therapeutic and diagnostic importance of medical empathy in psychology and psychiatry.
  • Explain how to cope with rage and anger.
  • Explain how to encourage creativity among kids. Explain how you can help kids with a bad memory.

Read more: The best motivational speech topics .

Clinical Psychology Essay Topics

Clinical psychology encompasses the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of psychological distress and mental disorders in individuals. These topics look to examine the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors that lead to mental health issues. Some excellent examples could include:

  • What roles does clinical psychology play as far as mental health treatment is concerned?
  • What are some of the ethical considerations when handling clinical psychology?
  • An examination of the evolution and history of clinical psychology practice
  • Relevance of cultural competence
  • A clinical psychology perspective on treating anxiety disorders
  • Understanding trauma and how it impacts your psychological well-being
  • The efficiency of cognitive-behavioral therapy in depression treatment
  • Benefits and challenges of using psychotropic medications
  • What are the pros and cons of diagnostic and assessment tools as used in clinical psychology?
  • Understanding the theory and application of psychodynamic approaches
  • Examining and promoting healthy relationships through family therapy
  • Applying mindfulness-based techniques in clinical psychology practice
  • Psychological factors that lead to addiction and substance abuse and the treatment approaches
  • Clinical psychology roles’ in addressing stigma
  • Evaluating criminal responsibility and competency in forensic settings

Psychology Argumentative Topics

Psychology argumentative essays invite thought-provoking discussions and critical analysis with the topics covering diverse areas in human cognition, behavior, and mental processes. As the argumentative essay presents and defends a given issue, psychology will help examine and evaluate the contrasting theories and ethical considerations. Below are examples of such essay topics:

  • An examination of environmental and genetic influences in shaping human behavior
  • Does social media usage cause psychological distress?
  • Candid examination on the validity of the Freud’s psychoanalytic theory
  • What are the ethical effects of using cognitive enhancing drugs?
  • Should placebos be used in research and therapy by psychological experts?
  • How does parenting styles influence the child’s development? Permissive vs Authoritarian parenting
  • Could video game violence be the reason for aggressive behavior in adolescents and children?
  • Can we rely on personality tests to measure personality traits?
  • Psychological profiling as a tool for criminal investigations
  • What are the effects of childhood trauma?
  • Relevance of emotional intelligence in professional and personal success
  • Effects of gender stereotypes on the career choices
  • Does the media influence eating disorders in adolescents?
  • What is the relationship between cognitive performance and sleep deprivation?
  • Ethical considerations in virtual reality as exposure therapy

Educational Psychology Essay Topics

Educational psychology topics will focus on understanding how people develop in educational settings. Captivating psychology topics focus on student motivation, instructional methods, and the educational environment in general. Educators and researchers can gain insights by looking at these subjects and know how to optimize learning strategies for students. Here are great examples to check out:

  • How technology affects student learning outcomes
  • How the teacher-student relationship affects their academic motivation and performance
  • How does metacognition help in enhancing effective learning strategies?
  • Does motivation foster student success and achievement?
  • Classroom design and how it affects student learning and engagement
  • Effects of emotional and social learning programs on student’s academic performance
  • Effective strategies used to address diverse learning needs
  • Impact of feedback and praise on student self-esteem and motivation
  • Promoting social and cognitive development in early childhood education
  • How does self-regulated learning help in promoting academic success?
  • How does culturally responsive teaching affect their cultural competence and achievement?
  • Impact of multimedia learning on understanding and information retention
  • Effects of classroom management techniques on student engagement and achievement
  • How to promote inclusive education for the students living with disabilities
  • Strategies for promoting perseverance and resilience in students

Cultural Psychology Essay Topics

These essay topics focus on how culture influences human cognition, behavior, and mental process. They look at how different cultural factors shape collective and individual values, beliefs, and behaviors. Cultural psychology also showcases the relationship between the human mind and culture and show the complexities of human behavior in different cultural contexts. Below are example topics:

  • Cultural differences in emotion expression and regulation
  • Cultural variations according to different perceptions and how it affects understanding reality
  • What are the cultural influences on child development and parenting styles?
  • Impact of cultural factors on beauty ideals and body image
  • Influence of culture on educational practices and learning styles
  • What role does culture play in shaping gender expectations and roles?
  • Role of cultural stereotypes in intergroup biases and relations
  • What are the effects of globalization on cultural adaptation and cultural identity?
  • Examining cultural influences on decision-making and risk perception
  • Research on cultural differences in conflict resolution and negotiation styles
  • How cultural factors shape the attitudes of the aging and elderly
  • How does culture organizational behavior and leadership styles
  • Effects of cultural values on marketing strategies and consumer behavior
  • What are the cultural differences in attitudes towards power dynamics?

Social Psychology Essay Topics

Social psychology topics focus on human behavior in social contexts. They look to investigate how individuals’ feelings, thoughts, and actions are influenced by group dynamics and societal factors. Exploring these topics will let you understand the intricacies of social influence, human interactions and prejudice among others. Here are few topics to research on:

  • What roles does conformity play in molding individual behavior?
  • Impact of social media on body image and self-esteem
  • Understanding social identity and how it impacts intergroup dynamics
  • What are the psychological mechanisms in obedience to the authorities?
  • Role of social support in handling adversity and stress
  • Examining the consequences of stereotypes
  • What psychological factors lead to the development of discrimination and prejudice?
  • Understanding the bystander effect
  • Examining the psychology of persuasion
  • Impact of cultural norms on social cognition and behavior
  • Understanding the psychology of romantic relationships and attraction
  • What are the psychological dynamics of violence and aggression?
  • Understanding psychological processes in group decision-making
  • What behaviors and traits make a remarkable leader?
  • Impact of social learning and socialization on an individual’s personality

Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

Some people have unusual behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. Odd mental conditions that seem challenging to understand for other people are classified as  mental disorders. Abnormal psychology looks at strange behaviors and actions shown by different individuals. Here are some of the best unusual psychology research essay topics for you:

  • Which are the four main D’s in abnormal psychology, and how valuable are they to practitioners?
  • Define psychological abnormality.
  • Who started abnormal psychology studies, and what was his /her approach?
  • Give examples of unusual psychology cases?
  • List down the importance of understanding abnormal psychology.
  • Which are the types of abnormal psychology?
  • Give a history of abnormal psychology.
  • What is the scope of abnormal psychology?
  • How would you offer psychological protection to children whose mothers suffer personality disorders?
  • Which approaches would you take in treating panic disorder?
  • Which are the challenges of group therapy in complex treatment of patients, especially in hospitals that handle severe mentor conditions?
  • Conduct pathogenesis of panic disorder and describe personality features.
  • Which are the best systems to use when offering psychotherapy for families with personality disorders?
  • How do nocturnal panic attacks relate to depressive disorders?
  • Give a theoretical analysis of the Emotional Stroop Effect.
  • Describe the personality structure of a patient with eating disorders and obesity.
  • Describe the treatment of depressive psychological disorders.
  • What is the connection between menopause and depressive disorders among women?
  • To what extent do hereditary factors influence depressive disorders in kids and adolescents?
  • Describe a psychological model as well as diagnosis and treatment of social anxiety.
  • Give a full description of cognitive processes, especially in organic brain lesions.
  • Describe schizophrenic disorders.
  • Give examples of ways in which the essential components of cognition are violated in schizophrenic cases.
  • Which is the best way to diagnose and treat children with attention problems?
  • How can you protect drug addicts psychologically?
  • How do drug abuse influence personality traits and relationships in individuals?
  • Describe circular depression among people with a concomitant personality disorder.
  • How to diagnose personality disorders among adolescents.

Cause and Effect Psychological Paper Topics

  • How do dreams cause anxiety?
  • Do advertisements have any effect on eating disorders?
  • How does social media influence empathy?
  • Do long-term relationships affect social behavior?
  • What are the psychological factors that influence a mass shooting?
  • Give the effects both negative and positive of stereotyping gender.
  • How does family violence impact on a child’s mentality?
  • How do learning abilities affect a child’s self-esteem?
  • What causes infidelity in marriage?
  • How does a parent and kid relationship influence the romantic relationship of the child’s future?
  • What are the impacts of parental alcoholism um on a kid’s mentality?
  • Who are the adverse effects of Barbie dolls on the self-esteem of girls?
  • Do computer games with violence contribute to adolescent aggression?
  • How do mood disorders come about, and what are the psychological and biological causes?
  • How do external factors influence child development?
  • Explain how stress causes psychological disorders.
  • Describe the child development of kids from overprotective parents.
  • Explain communication barriers between different genders.
  • How do emotions influence performance in sports?
  • Explain the therapeutic effect of music on our moods.
  • Is parental negligence to blame for child obesity?
  • How does bullying influence the mentality of children?
  • What effects does chocolate have on your mood?
  • Will singing cheer you up and why?
  • Does watching a sad movie make you cry? Give a psychological analysis of this phenomenon.
  • What are the therapeutic effects of painting?
  • In what ways does a professional psychologist get their personal life affected by their job?

Other Worthwhile Psychology Essay Topics

Psychology is a broad subject, and there is much more you can explore. Here are more uncategorized topics that you can explore.

  • A History of Psychology
  • The Role of Psychologists in the Corporate Setting
  • The Different Kinds of Operations, Methods, and Techniques Used for Psychological Warfare and its Effectiveness
  • A Look at the Career Field of Psychology and How to Become a Psychologist
  • The Psychology of Consciousness
  • How Psychology Relates to Accounting and Finance in the Fields of Memory, Personality, and Neuroscience
  • A Focus on a Career in the Field of Psychology
  • The Psychology of an Addict
  • The History and Applications of Positive Psychology
  • A Question on Whether Social Psychology Is More Psychological or Social
  • A Report on the Specialties in the Field of Psychology and Its Characteristics as a Career Option
  • The History and Evolution of Clinical Psychology as a Field of Practice
  • An Interest in Psychology and My Translation Works of Different Psychology Blogs and Documents
  • Understanding Psychology and Theories Associated With It
  • A Discussion of the Importance of Psychology in Our Everyday Lives
  • An Analysis of the Evolution of Forensic Psychology
  • An Analysis of the Four Main Methods of Test and Surveys in Psychology
  • An Analysis of the Child Psychology and Psychological Disorders
  • An Analysis of the Sport Psychology
  • The Concepts of the Brain, Sensation, Perception, and the Nature Versus Nurture Debate in My Psychological Course
  • An Overview of Major Contributors to the Development of Psychology as a Science
  • Psychology as a Real Science and the Common Misconceptions About Psychology
  • An Analysis of Psychological Health vs. Mental Illness
  • The Characteristics, Causes, and Prevalence of Panic Disorder, an Anxiety Disorder
  • An Overview of the Career of Psychology
  • The Views of Franz Brentano on the Philosophical Concept of Consciousness
  • An Analysis of Psychology
  • An Evaluation of the Success of Psychology and Its Extent
  • An Overview of the Reasons to Study Psychology
  • The Objectives of the Master’s in Counseling Program
  • The Growth and Role of Forensic Psychology
  • Understanding Human Behavior Through Psychology
  • The Career of a Clinical Psychologist
  • The Causes and Treatment of Bipolar Disorder
  • The Harmful Effect of Violent Lyrical Content in Music on Teenage Behaviors
  • The Ignorance About Child Abuse and Measures to Solve This
  • A Discussion of the Meaning of Aphorism and Its Uses
  • An Analysis of the Topic of the Children’s Perception
  • A Discussion on the Stressful Impact of Exams on Students
  • A Summary of the Reinforcement Theory
  • The Causes, Symptoms, and Spread of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
  • A Comparison of Two Interviews on the Subject of True Happiness
  • The Effects of Separating Twins in the Society
  • The Zodiac Circle Inside You
  • A Review of Major Happenings in the World from My Childhood to Adulthood
  • Psychological and Physical Effects of Drug Use in Today’s Adolescents
  • Comparison of Men and Women’s Sensitivity to Emotions
  • The Origins of Strange Habits
  • The Concepts of Psychology and the Fundamental Thinking Skills
  • A Career Analysis: Psychologist
  • The Perks of Choosing and Graduating as a Psychology Major
  • The Psychology of Color
  • An Overview of Psychology
  • Understanding Different Psychology Modules
  • Career Goals in Accomplishing Psychology Major
  • A Look at the Field of Psychology and Its Application as a Human Science
  • The Ten Early Perspectives in Psychology
  • Understanding Sport Psychology
  • The Evolution of the Field of Psychology Throughout History
  • An Analysis of the Best and Simplest Summary of Psychological Principles
  • The Different Functions of Counseling and Educational Psychology
  • The Career of a Clinical Child Psychologist
  •  Define depression and explain why society should take it seriously.
  • Define social Darwinism In terms of racism.
  • What is the unconscious inference?
  • Define a borderline personality.
  • What is the primary purpose of defense mechanisms?
  • Explain memory errors and name three types of memory errors
  • What is self-esteem?
  • Define traumatic grief and explain whether its effects are irreversible.
  • What are the Macbeth effect and its causes?

How to Choose a Topic for a Psychology Essay

There are several approaches you can use when writing essay topics psychology;

  • Pick an unexplored topic – If you have the time and resources, picking an unexplored topic will test your knowledge and establish you as an authority in the subject of interest.
  • Revisit a controversial topic – There is no shortage of controversial topics in psychology. This approach will help you better the body of knowledge in psychology.
  • Narrow down – As a life science, psychology is a broad enough subject to offer niche topics that present excellent research opportunities. Narrowing down will go a long way in helping you focus on a specific subject. However, you should be careful not to narrow down too much such that you will not get sources of information to explore your topic.
  • Choose a topic that interests you – One of the biggest mistakes that students make is picking topics that don’t interest them. If it is a subject that you like, you are going to enjoy working on it, and you will be motivated to do thorough research.
  • Consider the amount of information you will need for the essay – Most time, the professors tell you how many references they will need for a given assignment. Remember that different psychology subjects have varying content. The most explored ones could have more information compared to the areas that have not been tackled much. Keeping this in mind while choosing your topic will go a long way in preventing you from getting stranded in the middle of your write up.

Writing a psychology essay may look daunting. But solid research and careful analysis of what you want to write on does half of the work. Sometimes, you might write a well-informed essay but struggle to come up with a topic. Do not worry; you are like many out there. This creative  essay title generator  might be what you need. The challenges you face in writing the essay are worth the satisfaction of knowing that you have made a mark in this crucial life science.

Psychology is an exciting subject, and if you choose the right topic and do ample research, it is easy to nail that paper. To impress the reader further, do your work professionally by ensuring there are no grammatical errors, and your content is original: a  plagiarism checker  can help you with this.

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20+ Interesting Psychology Essay Topics and Ideas

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by  Antony W

June 9, 2024

Psychology Essay Topics

Has your teacher asked you to write a psychology essay on a topic of your choice? It means they’ve given you the freedom to choose a topic of your interest from among the many possible psychology essay topics.

However, the best topics don’t often come to mind during brainstorming, which is why we think presenting you with a list of psychology argumentative essay topics can go a long way to make a difference.

Your essay has to be argumentative in kind. It means you have to take a stance on an issue, and use evidence and objective reason to defend your position.

As you write, you’ll have to account for opposing point of views to demonstrate your prowess on the topic and prove to your teacher that you indeed conducted your research.

In the following section, we’ll look at some of the best psychology essay topics that you can start working on right away.

Psychology Essay Topics

Developmental psychology topic.

This area focuses on the study of how people change as they grow and mature. Some of the most interesting topics that you can explore include: 

  • The causes of a student's exclusion from the school team and their effect on the student's behavior
  • The learning motivation, learning achievement, and well-being of elementary school students
  • The condition for a preschooler's development is play.
  • The effect of biological maturation on teenagers' cognitive and personality qualities
  • The effect of communication difficulties on the child's mental development
  • Gender variations in teenagers' selection of personality-affirming strategies

Forensic Psychology Essay Topics

Forensic psychology is an important aspect in law that helps investigators to make the correct judicial decisions in difficult life situations. Some of the best essay topics to explore in this area are as follows: 

  • Characteristics of the personality and conduct of distinct types of serial sex murders from a psychological perspective
  • Examining the immaturity of juvenile delinquents within the context of normal and pathological human development
  • The psychological ramifications of sexual assault and abuse against females
  • The use of psychological diagnostics to anticipate the professional achievement of the directors of the internal affairs agencies
  • Psychological features of incarcerated women with personality disorders that affect their ability to adjust to prison environments

Also Read: Best Rhetoric Analysis Essay Topic

Sport Psychology Topics

Research into sports psychology makes it possible to develop appropriate training programs for athletes. Here are some topic ideas from which you can pick one for your essay assignment: 

  • The primary focuses of psychological treatment with an excellent athlete.
  • The crisis of reorientation: the difficulty of "loneliness" in a new vocation for an athlete
  • Modern diagnostic ideas and techniques for motivation in sports psychology
  • A crisis scenario is beneficial to an athlete's professional and personal growth.
  • Analysis of a professional athlete's performance in a particular sport

IB Psychology Extended Essay Topics

The IB program is a well-structured education framework that teaches high school students to think creatively and widely.

It requires students to choose from a broad list of subjects usually divided into six subject groups.

One of the subject options in the IB program is Psychology.

If you choose this topic, you will have to write a 4,000-word extended essay and present it for external moderation.

Some of the topics you can explore in IB Psychology are as follows:  

  • Why is the gender issue becoming increasingly urgent?
  • Why do adolescents typically suffer from apathy?
  • What therapies exist for personality disorders?
  • What circumstances and factors can contribute to the development of depression?
  • Why should everyone have his or her own viewpoint?
  • How does religion effect the development of personality?
  • What languages should a modern student learn for future success?
  • What is the distinction between the notions of fervor and love?
  • How can you assist youngsters whose parents have divorced?
  • What link exists between witchcraft and Satanism?

Social Psychology Topics

Social psychology focuses on the study of human behavior in the society.

It looks at human interaction in groups, people’s perception, communication, and the influence of human interactions. Some interesting topics to explore in this area include: 

  • What psychological elements contribute to the popularity of social networks?
  • Socio-psychological dimensions of Internet communication.
  • A person's social intelligence as a component in effective communication
  • Behavior and personality traits are in conflict.
  • Do focus groups make the best social psychology research approach?
  • What is the relationship between social intelligence and personality adaption?

Clinical Psychology Topics

Clinical psychology is the branch of psychology that investigates the link between mental processes and illness.

Clinical psychology encompasses mental health diagnosis as well as the organization and execution of scientific research. Here are some interesting topics you could explore in your essay: 

  • The psychological and clinical elements of eating disorders
  • Emotional sphere characteristics and defensive coping strategies in diverse mental and behavioral illnesses and other conditions
  • Patients with chronic skin illnesses have an internal image of their condition
  • A clinical and psychological examination of the development of dependent behavior in females
  • Schoolchildren with allergic rhinitis' perceptions of the condition

Argumentative Psychology Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics in psychology require taking a stance and demonstrating to your audience that your position on an issue is the correct one, especially if they don’t agree with you initially. 

  • Is It Ethical to Provide Cognitive Enhancing Medication to Children?
  • Is Gender Discrimination in Religion Adversely Affecting Society?
  • Should parents monitor and restrict their children's online activities?
  • Is it true that going to the grocery store while you're hungry increases spending?
  • Should the government make cannabis legal? How Will This Affect Persons?
  • Should teachers be required to be aware of a student's academic history?
  • Would a tax increase on unhealthy foods reduce spending?
  • Which Is More Effective: Electronic Learning Devices or Textbooks?
  • Do you concur that paternity leave harms the economy but benefits children?
  • When spanking their children, do parents go to extremes?

Psychology Essay Writing Help

Writing a psychology essay can take a lot of time because it requires planning, research, and writing.

If you don’t have the time to search for a topic, conduct the research, and write the assignment, you can take advantage of our  custom essay writing service and let our team help you get the essay done on time.

Otherwise, keep exploring the following topic ideas to find a topic you can comfortably write your essay on in your free time.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

Organizational Psychology Degrees

5 Topics Covered in an Introduction To Psychology Course

Subjects studied in psychology 101.

Subjects Studied in Psychology 101

Every introduction to psychology course essentially covers the same topics. It is a survey of all things psychology, from its development as an area of study to applications in education to:

  • the study of human nature

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If you’re set to enroll in an intro to psych course, the topics below are all but guaranteed to be on the course syllabus.

The History of Psychology

The History of Psychology

Among the psychological topics covered in an introductory psychology course is how psychology developed as a discipline out of philosophy and natural sciences. You’ll learn about the early:

  • practitioners

This will include a look at such people as William James, author of the foundational The Principles of Psychology , which is one of the most important psychology texts ever written.

You’ll also learn about Sigmund Freud, whose theory of psychoanalysis is one of the most important to the practice of psychology. Ivan Pavlov, whose behavioral experiments opened the door to the scientific study of behavior will be studied as well.

Typically, humanistic psychology, including the work of Abraham Maslow and his hierarchy of needs, as well as cognitive psychology will also be discussed as part of the field’s history.

Other psychology topics might include the development of personality and intelligence tests, like the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Quotient. You’ll likely learn how genetics influence personality and how psychologists assess personality traits.  You’ll learn about different treatments for mental illness, too. These include some like lobotomies and electroconvulsive therapy that are highly controversial. More accepted treatments (i.e., lithium for bipolar disorder) for mental illness will also be reviewed. 

Scientific Methods in Psychology

Once psychology began to move out of the realm of philosophy and into that of scientific research, the use of the scientific method became important in psychology research.

Introductory psychology students will probably learn the basics of designing a psychological research project. This could include basic instructions on how a researcher might formulate and test a hypothesis. This part of the course would also look at creating experimental and control groups. The former receives an experimental treatment. The latter does not.

When devising experiments, the participants in the study are randomly assigned to the experimental and control conditions. This is done to minimize potential bias and ensure that the two groups are as similar as possible, save for the experimental condition being applied only to the experimental group.

Another significant portion of this line of study is statistics. Designing and implementing an experiment is just the first part. You must also collect and analyze data and interpret those results. Statistical procedures allow you to do this.

Psychological statistics is covered only in broad terms in an introductory psychology course. However, you will likely still learn about a wide range of statistical procedures like:

  • measures of central tendency
  • Chi squares

The Human Brain

The Human Brain is a course taken when studying psychology

As an article in Psychology Today explains, neuroscience may eventually eclipse psychology altogether or it may simply become another subfield. But it will generally always be one of the interesting psychology topics covered in an introductory course.

Again, the depth with which you will study the human brain will be fairly limited in scope in Psych 101 . You will likely learn about brain structures, like the different lobes, and what psychologists understand those brain structures to be associated with.

For example, the frontal lobe is responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

  • motor control
  • emotional regulation
  • personality characteristics

Psychologists understand this to be true due in large part to an injury sustained by a man named Phineas Gage.

Gage was a railroad worker who was severely injured when an explosion sent a metal rod through his head under his left cheekbone, behind his left eye, through his frontal lobe, and out the top of his head. Amazingly, he survived. In fact, he was able to walk and talk immediately after the accident.

But in the months after the accident, Gage’s personality reportedly changed. He went from being soft-spoken and mild-mannered to being unpredictable with a lack of self-control. His case was the first time that scientists were able to pinpoint personality as being controlled by the frontal lobe.

Sensation and Perception

Perspectives in Learning, Perception, and Cognition

Related to the study of the brain is the study of sensation and perception.

What we perceive in the world around us is based on our senses:

Furthermore, we have systems in the body that:

  • control balance
  • interpret pain
  • sense temperature
  • control body position and movement

The interplay between our senses and perception is extremely complex. We are constantly taking in sensory information. Our brain is constantly processing that information. Beyond that, our brain then has to determine what to do with the information it receives.

For example, if pain receptors in your hand tell your brain that your hand is experiencing heat, your brain will send a signal to the appropriate muscles to move your hand away from the heat source. Of course, all this is done in a matter of milliseconds – and without you having to think about making any of it happen.

Usually, an exploration of sensation and perception will also include brief discussions of:

  • Subliminal messaging
  • Types of information processing

Course materials will enable you to develop a stronger understanding of physical systems in the human body – and how they influence human behavior.

Memory and Learning

psychology 101 essay topics

Your intro to psychology course will also include a unit on memory and learning.

Like sensation and perception, these processes have physiological underpinnings yet can greatly influence one’s psychology. Early studies of memory and learning – from iconic figures in psychology like B.F. Skinner and Ivan Pavlov – helped form what would become known as behaviorism.

You’ll discover two theories of learning that grew out of behaviorism. First is classical conditioning, which posits that behavior is the result of environmental stimuli. Pavlov, for example, discovered that a dog would begin to salivate before it were presented with food. In fact, salivation began when the people who fed them arrived in the room.

Pavlov hypothesized that he could elicit the same response with another stimulus. So, he began ringing a bell when the dogs were presented with their food. Eventually, he only rang the bell.  The dogs did not get any food, yet they still salivated.

Skinner, on the other hand, devised a learning theory called operant conditioning. Rather than explaining learning as a result of environmental stimuli, Skinner believed that rewards and punishments could be used to cause certain behaviors to occur.

For example, when you tell a joke to your friends and they laugh, their laughter is positive reinforcement. This reinforcement will make it more likely that you’ll tell a joke again in the future. Behaviors can be made more likely by removing something unpleasant, too. This is called a negative reinforcer. If your professor tells you that anyone with an A in the class at the end of the semester can skip the final, your behavior of getting a good grade is reinforced by the removal of something unpleasant – the final test.

Operant conditioning also involves punishers. A positive punishment, like being yelled at by your parents, is added to a situation to make a behavior less likely. A negative punishment makes a behavior less likely to occur because something desirable has been removed, like a parent taking away their child’s cell phone for breaking curfew.

These few examples only scratch the surface of memory and learning. These are complex and interesting topics that you’ll explore in introduction to psychology .

Psychological Theories and Perspective

psychology 101 essay topics

Over the years, various psychological theories and perspectives have emerged to explain human behavior. These theories are as different as they are many.

  • Behaviorism is a learning theory that posits that behavior is acquired as the result of conditioning. Behaviorism was extremely popular in the early 20th century, and is still used by many psychologists today as a therapeutic approach to learning new behaviors.
  • Humanism focuses on the essential goodness of people. Its goal is to help people fulfill their potential. It is forward-thinking and does not focus on eliminating dysfunction as many other psychological theories do.
  • The Psychoanalytic approach emphasizes the importance of one’s unconscious and its influence over behavior. One’s past experiences have great control over how you behave today. Psychoanalysis helps people discover what’s in their unconscious mind, thus allowing them to address those  experiences and change their behavior for the better.
  • decision-making

Cognitive psychologists look specifically at how we acquire information, process it, store it, and use it.

  • Biological theories posit that behavior is the result of physical and biological processes. Biological psychologists examine the role of genetics, for example, in human behavior. They also explore how damage to certain parts of the brain results in changes in behavior.
  • The evolutionary perspective focuses on how evolution and physiological processes can account for certain behaviors. For example, this perspective might examine a specific human behavior, like mate selection, through the lens of its evolutionary purpose to the survival of the species.

These are just a few of the theories and perspectives you will learn about in an introductory psychology course. There are many other perspectives – both old and new – that offer vastly different explanations for human behavior.

Psychology Subfields

There are many different concentrations in the broader field of psychology. Some, like experimental psychology and clinical psychology, are much older than others. Newer disciplines are emerging, and additional specialties are being developed. More recent subfields include:

  • trauma psychology
  • international psychology
  • pediatric psychology

There is not time to delve deeply into any of these concentrations in an introductory course. But it will usually briefly examine some of the most common disciplines within this field.

For example, introductory courses typically offer an overview of:

  • Educational psychology
  • Psychotherapy
  • Forensic psychology
  • Developmental psychology
  • Physiological psychology
  • Gestalt psychology
  • Counseling psychology
  • Social psychology
  • Industrial and organizational psychology
  • Health psychology
  • Neuropsychology

Additionally, you will learn about:

  • psychopharmacology
  • quantitative and qualitative research methods
  • substance abuse

Psychological Disorders

Another topic covered in an introductory psychology course is psychological disorders. This might include a discussion of:

  • what is considered abnormal psychology
  • how disorders are diagnosed
  • how they are treated
  • how that diagnosis and treatment have changed over time

The disorders covered may include:

  • personality disorders
  • anxiety disorders
  • mood disorders

For example, you’ll learn about borderline:

  • personality disorder
  • antisocial personality disorder
  • obsessive compulsive disorder

You’ll also get an introduction to:

  • generalized anxiety disorder
  • social anxiety disorder

Mood disorders like major depression and cyclothymia will be discussed.

There will also be a look at schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. These disorders are characterized by a person’s break from reality. They typically suffer from hallucinations, delusions, or both. In some cases, as with dissociative identity disorder, a person will have multiple distinct personalities.

The purpose of an introductory psychology course is to prepare psychology students for a full course of study in the topic and to give other students a good grounding in the basics of the field. The topics covered in an introductory psychology class give a sense of the history, scope, and methods used in the field.The knowledge you gain will help you further your education in psychology or in another topic.

Sean Jackson

B.A. Social Studies Education | University of Wyoming

M.S. Counseling | University of Wyoming

B.S. Information Technology | University of Massachusetts

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Psychology Research Paper Topics for Quick and Effective Writing

Psychology Research Paper Topic Ideas

Mark Bradford

Choosing a topic for your psychology research paper can feel like stepping into a maze of possibilities. There's so much ground to cover – human behavior, thoughts, emotions – and it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That's why we've put together this article that rounds up interesting psychology research paper topics to help you get started. Whether you're into understanding why we do what we do, rummaging into the workings of the mind, or exploring how psychology applies in everyday life, there's something here to spark your interest and set you on the right path. Pay for research paper in case you still have struggles with your assignment.

How to Select a Psychology Research Paper Topic?

Choosing a psychology research paper topic can be both exciting and daunting. Here are some steps from our   paper writing services to help you choose the right topic:

Good psychology research paper topic characteristics

  • Consider your interests within psychology and subfields like clinical, cognitive, social, or developmental psychology.
  • Review course materials for concepts or studies that intrigue you.
  • Consult with your instructor for guidance and suggestions.
  • Brainstorm potential topics and write them down.
  • Narrow your options to manageable and relevant topics.
  • Assess the feasibility of conducting research within time and resource constraints.
  • Consider topics related to current events or emerging trends in psychology.
  • Explore interdisciplinary connections with other fields like neuroscience or sociology.
  • Look for topics that spark curiosity and enthusiasm for deeper exploration.
  • Reflect on personal experiences or observations for potential research ideas.
  • Conduct preliminary research to ensure literature availability.
  • Evaluate the significance and contribution of each topic.
  • Refine your chosen topic to a specific research question.
  • Seek feedback from peers, instructors, or mentors.
  • Stay flexible as your topic may evolve during research.

By following these steps, you can find a psychology paper topic that will set the stage for a successful research project.

psychology 101 essay topics

Social Psychology Research Paper Topics

These research paper topics blend science and societal perspectives, often touching on themes that overlap with philosophy. Despite this philosophical connection, they remain intriguing and pertinent to psychology, offering ample opportunity for thoughtful exploration and analysis.

  • The influence of social media on self-esteem and body image perception.
  • Effects of group dynamics on decision making in teenagers.
  • Conformity behavior in online gaming communities.
  • The impact of stereotypes on academic performance.
  • Altruism and helping behavior in emergency situations.
  • Social influence on consumer behavior: A study of product endorsements.
  • Gender differences in leadership styles and perceptions.
  • Social identity and its role in intergroup conflict.
  • The relationship between social support and mental health outcomes.
  • Factors affecting obedience to authority figures: A contemporary analysis.

Clinical Psychology Research Paper Topics

This branch of science delves into the intricacies of human behavior, shedding light on how individuals interact and respond in their daily lives. Topics within this realm often explore behavioral therapy and cognitive development aspects, offering fertile ground for research and discussion. Here are some common paper topics that frequently demand exploration and analysis.

  • The efficacy of mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques in managing anxiety disorders.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating depression in adolescents: A systematic review.
  • The role of family therapy in addressing communication patterns in dysfunctional families.
  • Effectiveness of virtual reality exposure therapy in treating phobias.
  • Mind-body interventions for chronic pain management: A comparative analysis.
  • The impact of early childhood trauma on adult attachment styles.
  • Neurobiological correlates of PTSD and implications for treatment approaches.
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of group therapy for social anxiety disorder.
  • Psychosocial interventions for enhancing resilience in trauma survivors.
  • Integrative approaches to treating eating disorders: A review of evidence-based practices.

Experimental Psychology Research Paper Topics

When discussing psychology, it's common to associate it with concepts like multiple personalities, but this aspect of the field focuses on a different dimension. Here, the emphasis is on experiments conducted worldwide that illuminate the workings of the brain, the nature of disorders, and more.

  • The effect of color on cognitive performance: A comparative study.
  • Investigating the relationship between music tempo and mood regulation.
  • The impact of social media use on attention span and multitasking abilities.
  • Examining the bystander effect in emergencies using virtual reality simulations.
  • Gender differences in spatial navigation abilities: An experimental approach.
  • The role of sleep quality in memory consolidation and retrieval.
  • Assessing the effectiveness of positive reinforcement in behavior modification.
  • Investigating the influence of environmental factors on decision-making processes.
  • The effects of meditation and mindfulness practices on stress reduction.
  • Exploring the phenomenon of false memories through experimental manipulation.

Developmental Psychology Research Paper Topics

While developmental psychology research topics can be challenging, they also offer immense rewards. Topics in this realm often revolve around personality formation in children, exploring issues and factors that may influence development. Given the focus on children, it's crucial to consider the data utilized in research carefully.

  • The influence of parenting styles on emotional intelligence development in children.
  • Examining the impact of early childhood education programs on cognitive development.
  • The role of attachment theory in understanding adolescent peer relationships.
  • Investigating the dangers of teen vaping on social skills development in adolescents.
  • Exploring the relationship between birth order and personality traits.
  • Gender identity development in adolescence: A contemporary perspective.
  • The impact of divorce on child development: A longitudinal study.
  • Cross-cultural comparisons of moral development in children.
  • Understanding the effects of bullying on psychosocial development in adolescents.
  • Examining the role of play in promoting cognitive and social development in preschoolers.

Criminal Psychology Research Paper Topics

While some may associate this area with forensic psychology, it primarily studies the motivations behind criminal behavior and any potential mental health implications. Research in this field often explores why individuals commit crimes and examines the role of mental health disorders or other factors that may contribute to criminal behavior.

  • Psychological profiling of serial offenders: Case studies and implications for law enforcement.
  • The role of personality disorders in criminal behavior: A forensic psychology perspective.
  • Investigating the relationship between childhood trauma and violent criminal behavior.
  • The psychology of criminal interrogation techniques: Ethical considerations and effectiveness.
  • Exploring the impact of media violence on aggressive behavior and criminality.
  • Psychopathic traits and their association with recidivism rates in offenders.
  • The influence of social environment on juvenile delinquency: A socio-psychological analysis.
  • Understanding the psychology of hate crimes: Motivations and implications for prevention.
  • Cognitive biases in eyewitness testimony and their implications for criminal justice.
  • The effectiveness of rehabilitation programs in reducing criminal recidivism.

Cultural Psychology Research Paper Topics

In this context, you'll explore how culture influences the formation of our minds and its impact throughout our lives. It's essential to maintain a well-organized essay, avoiding both overly broad and overly narrow scopes to keep readers engaged and focused. Psychological factors are vital for understanding the intricate interplay between culture and the mind, highlighting the significance of clear and coherent analysis.

  • Cultural differences in emotion expression and perception.
  • The impact of cultural values on parenting styles and child development.
  • Cultural variations in the perception of mental health and attitudes towards seeking help.
  • Cultural influences on decision-making processes.
  • The role of culture in shaping attitudes towards aging and elderly care.
  • Cross-cultural differences in attitudes towards authority and obedience.
  • Cultural variations in negotiation styles and conflict resolution strategies.
  • Exploring cultural differences in the perception of beauty standards and body image.
  • The influence of cultural context on the experience and treatment of trauma.
  • Cultural factors and attitudes towards work, career aspirations, and job satisfaction.

Health Psychology Research Paper Topics

Topics might range from exploring specific disorders to strategies for maintaining mental well-being and addressing various psychological challenges. These titles offer both intrigue and practical benefits for readers, encompassing a wide spectrum of psychological elements within science.

  • The impact of stress on immune function and susceptibility to illness.
  • Investigating the role of social support in coping with chronic illness.
  • Strategies for promoting exercise and healthy eating.
  • Exploring the link between mental health disorders and physical health outcomes.
  • The influence of personality traits on health-related behaviors and outcomes.
  • Psychosocial factors in the onset and management of chronic pain conditions.
  • Understanding the placebo effect: Mechanisms and implications for healthcare.
  • Examining the psychological effects of living with a chronic illness or disability.
  • The role of mindfulness-based interventions in improving overall health and well-being.
  • Psychological aspects of patient-provider communication and its impact on treatment adherence.

Sports Psychology Research Paper Topics

Let’s investigate the psychology of athletes and how they navigate the challenges of their world. The psychological factors here are profound and expansive, influencing performance, resilience, and well-being. These ideas offer engaging avenues for exploration, particularly for sports enthusiasts, providing prime examples of papers within sports psychology.

  • The psychology of peak performance: Strategies used by elite athletes.
  • Exploring the relationship between personality traits and athletic success.
  • The impact of imagery and visualization techniques on athletic performance.
  • Examining the role of motivation in sports participation and achievement.
  • Psychological factors affecting injury risk and recovery in athletes.
  • Investigating the effects of competition anxiety on performance outcomes.
  • The psychology of team dynamics: Communication, cohesion, and leadership.
  • Understanding burnout in athletes: Risk factors, prevention, and intervention strategies.
  • The influence of coach-athlete relationships on athlete motivation and performance.
  • Psychological aspects of sports rehabilitation and return to play.

Educational Psychology Research Paper Topics

The psychological elements in education center around education and its impact on the mind. This encompasses the effects of education during formative years and its influence later in life. Research paper topics in this area study how education shapes cognition, behavior, and overall mental well-being, offering valuable insights into lifelong learning and development.

  • The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic achievement and student well-being.
  • Exploring the effectiveness of different learning styles and teaching strategies in the classroom.
  • Investigating the role of self-regulated learning in academic success.
  • The influence of technology on student engagement and learning outcomes.
  • Understanding the psychology of motivation in educational settings.
  • Examining the effects of standardized testing on student motivation and self-esteem.
  • Exploring the relationship between classroom environment and student behavior.
  • The role of parental involvement in children's academic achievement.
  • Investigating the impact of cultural diversity on teaching and learning practices.
  • Exploring the psychology of academic procrastination: Causes, consequences, and interventions.

Social Media Psychology Research Paper Topics

Here, the focus lies on exploring the impact of social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram on our mental health. Research papers in this area delve into how these platforms influence our well-being, examining the benefits and drawbacks. To address this topic effectively, thorough research is essential, incorporating a wealth of details to analyze the psychological effects of social media use comprehensively.

  • The impact of social media use on mental health and well-being.
  • The role of social media in shaping identity formation and self-esteem.
  • The effects of social media comparison on body image dissatisfaction.
  • The psychology of social media addiction: Risk factors, consequences, and interventions.
  • Understanding cyberbullying dynamics on social media platforms: Risk factors and protective factors.
  • The relationship between social media use and interpersonal relationships.
  • The influence of influencer marketing on consumer behavior and purchasing decisions.
  • Investigating the role of social media in spreading misinformation and fake news.
  • Exploring the effects of social media on political attitudes and behaviors.
  • Psychology of online activism and social movements on social media platforms.

Abnormal Psychology Research Paper Topics

The main aim is to explore and study different psychological disorders, clearly conveying their nature and effects to a wider audience. This includes examining disorders like eating disorders and severe psychosis, using precise and current data to support arguments and improving comprehension.

  • Causes and treatments of specific phobias.
  • Understanding schizophrenia: Symptoms and therapies.
  • Childhood trauma and dissociative disorders.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy for OCD.
  • Genetics and mood disorders.
  • Substance use disorders and co-occurring mood disorders.
  • Psychosocial factors in eating disorders.
  • Trauma and PTSD.
  • Personality disorders: Types and interventions.
  • Mindfulness for depression and anxiety.

Cognitive Psychology Research Paper Topics

The topics often revolve around identifying problems and proposing solutions. Maintaining focus while writing and paying meticulous attention to details is crucial to ensure clarity and accuracy.

  • Memory consolidation during sleep.
  • The role of attention in perception and memory.
  • Exploring the cognitive mechanisms underlying decision-making processes.
  • The effects of aging on cognitive function and memory.
  • Cognitive biases in judgment and decision-making.
  • The impact of technology on cognitive processes.
  • Neural correlates of language processing.
  • Exploring the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety disorders.
  • The psychology of problem-solving.
  • Development of executive functions in children.

psychology 101 essay topics

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How to Write an Introduction for a Psychology Paper

  • Writing Tips

If you are writing a psychology paper, it is essential to kick things off with a strong introduction. The introduction to a psychology research paper helps your readers understand why the topic is important and what they need to know before they delve deeper.

Your goal in this section is to introduce the topic to the reader, provide an overview of previous research on the topic, and identify your own hypothesis .

At a Glance

Writing a great introduction can be a great foundation for the rest of your psychology paper. To create a strong intro:

  • Research your topic
  • Outline your paper
  • Introduce your topic
  • Summarize the previous research
  • Present your hypothesis or main argument

Before You Write an Introduction

There are some important steps you need to take before you even begin writing your introduction. To know what to write, you need to collect important background information and create a detailed plan.

Research Your Topic

Search a journal database, PsychInfo or ERIC, to find articles on your subject. Once you have located an article, look at the reference section to locate other studies cited in the article. As you take notes from these articles, be sure to write down where you found the information.

A simple note detailing the author's name, journal, and date of publication can help you keep track of sources and avoid plagiarism.

Create a Detailed Outline

This is often one of the most boring and onerous steps, so students tend to skip outlining and go straight to writing. Creating an outline might seem tedious, but it can be an enormous time-saver down the road and will make the writing process much easier.

Start by looking over the notes you made during the research process and consider how you want to present all of your ideas and research.

Introduce the Topic

Once you are ready to write your introduction, your first task is to provide a brief description of the research question. What is the experiment or study attempting to demonstrate? What phenomena are you studying? Provide a brief history of your topic and explain how it relates to your current research.

As you are introducing your topic, consider what makes it important. Why should it matter to your reader? The goal of your introduction is not only to let your reader know what your paper is about, but also to justify why it is important for them to learn more.

If your paper tackles a controversial subject and is focused on resolving the issue, it is important to summarize both sides of the controversy in a fair and impartial way. Consider how your paper fits in with the relevant research on the topic.

The introduction of a research paper is designed to grab interest. It should present a compelling look at the research that already exists and explain to readers what questions your own paper will address.

Summarize Previous Research

The second task of your introduction is to provide a well-rounded summary of previous research that is relevant to your topic. So, before you begin to write this summary, it is important to research your topic thoroughly.

Finding appropriate sources amid thousands of journal articles can be a daunting task, but there are several steps you can take to simplify your research. If you have completed the initial steps of researching and keeping detailed notes, writing your introduction will be much easier.

It is essential to give the reader a good overview of the historical context of the issue you are writing about, but do not feel like you must provide an exhaustive review of the subject. Focus on hitting the main points, and try to include the most relevant studies.

You might describe previous research findings and then explain how the current study differs or expands upon earlier research.

Provide Your Hypothesis

Once you have summarized the previous research, explain areas where the research is lacking or potentially flawed. What is missing from previous studies on your topic? What research questions have yet to be answered? Your hypothesis should lead to these questions.

At the end of your introduction, offer your hypothesis and describe what you expected to find in your experiment or study.

The introduction should be relatively brief. You want to give your readers an overview of a topic, explain why you are addressing it, and provide your arguments.

Tips for Writing Your Psychology Paper Intro

  • Use 3x5 inch note cards to write down notes and sources.
  • Look in professional psychology journals for examples of introductions.
  • Remember to cite your sources.
  • Maintain a working bibliography with all of the sources you might use in your final paper. This will make it much easier to prepare your reference section later on.
  • Use a copy of the APA style manual to ensure that your introduction and references are in proper APA format .

What This Means For You

Before you delve into the main body of your paper, you need to give your readers some background and present your main argument in the introduction of you paper. You can do this by first explaining what your topic is about, summarizing past research, and then providing your thesis.

Armağan A. How to write an introduction section of a scientific article ?  Turk J Urol . 2013;39(Suppl 1):8-9. doi:10.5152/tud.2013.046

Fried T, Foltz C, Lendner M, Vaccaro AR. How to write an effective introduction .  Clin Spine Surg . 2019;32(3):111-112. doi:10.1097/BSD.0000000000000714

Jawaid SA, Jawaid M. How to write introduction and discussion .  Saudi J Anaesth . 2019;13(Suppl 1):S18-S19. doi:10.4103/sja.SJA_584_18

American Psychological Association. Information Recommended for Inclusion in Manuscripts That Report New Data Collections Regardless of Research Design . Published 2020.

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

PSY101 General Research: Sample Papers

  • Get Started
  • Selecting a Topic
  • Publication Types
  • Find Articles
  • Formatting your paper in APA style
  • Quoting, paraphrasing, and summarizing
  • In-text and parenthetical citations
  • Formatting a References Page
  • Citing books and e-books
  • Citing magazines, newspapers, or journal articles (print or online)
  • Citing websites, online videos, blog posts, and tweets
  • Citing other common formats

Sample Papers

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Psychology Topics

PsychologyWriting provides essay samples on various psychology topics for all study levels. Choose the category below to find what you’re searching for.

  • Abraham Maslow
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Psychology topics

Psychology is a diverse discipline grounded in science, but with nearly boundless applications in everyday life. Scientific research conducted by psychologists can inform and guide those seeking help with issues that affect their professional lives, family relationships, and emotional wellness.

Featured topics

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  • Suicide and suicide prevention
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