Changing The Face Of Psychology

Psychology has grown in different directions. Some of the current trends that are prominent in shaping this discipline are as follows: 

1. Emphasis on Cultural Context Psychologists are realizing the fact that psychological phenomena can be understood in the specific cultural context in which they take place. The studies in cross-cultural psychology and cultural psychology show that many of the concepts (e.g., self, morality) and practices (e.g, socialization, life tasks) are culturally specific. It is therefore necessary to understand these issues and processes in their cultural context. 

2. Breakthrough in Neurosciences In recent years considerable knowledge has been gained about brain and other parts of nervous system and biological functioning. This has helped in not only understanding the nature of psychological processes but has provided ways and means (e.g., drugs) to cure various diseases. 

3. Multidisciplinary Concerns Psychologists as well as other scientists are now convinced that human reality is complex and one discipline cannot properly comprehend it. Hence multidisciplinary efforts have started to understand the various aspects of human life. In particular, the collaboration of linguists, anthropologists and cognitive scientists is taking place in the study of issues related to language, personality, emotion and values.