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119 Abnormal Psychology Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

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Abnormal psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on studying unusual patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions. This field explores mental disorders and their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. If you are studying abnormal psychology or have an interest in the subject, you may need to write essays on various topics related to this field. To help you get started, here are 119 abnormal psychology essay topic ideas and examples.

The impact of childhood trauma on the development of mental disorders.
The role of genetics in the development of psychological disorders.
The relationship between substance abuse and mental illness.
Exploring the effectiveness of different therapeutic approaches for treating anxiety disorders.
The influence of social media on body image and eating disorders among adolescents.
The psychological effects of long-term solitary confinement.
Understanding the causes and consequences of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Exploring the connection between depression and physical health.
The role of neurotransmitters in the development of schizophrenia.
The impact of cultural factors on the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders.
The relationship between sleep disorders and mental health.
Examining the prevalence and treatment of borderline personality disorder.
The effects of bullying on mental health in children and adolescents.
Understanding the psychological impact of natural disasters on survivors.
The relationship between childhood abuse and the development of dissociative identity disorder (DID).
The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Exploring the stigma surrounding mental illness and its impact on help-seeking behavior.
The effects of parental divorce on the psychological well-being of children.
Understanding the causes and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The relationship between childhood adversity and the development of antisocial personality disorder.
Examining the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for reducing stress and anxiety.
The impact of social support on the recovery from substance use disorders.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of eating disorders.
The role of trauma in the development of dissociative disorders.
Exploring the link between childhood maltreatment and the risk of developing depression in adulthood.
The effects of early-life stress on brain development and mental health outcomes.
The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing schizophrenia.
Examining the role of genetics in the development of bipolar disorder.
The impact of social isolation on mental health in older adults.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of agoraphobia.
The effects of media violence on aggressive behavior in children.
The relationship between childhood neglect and the risk of developing substance use disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of virtual reality therapy for treating phobias.
The role of self-esteem in the development and maintenance of eating disorders.
The impact of discrimination on mental health outcomes among marginalized populations.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of hoarding disorder.
The effects of early attachment experiences on adult romantic relationships.
The relationship between trauma and the development of dissociative amnesia.
Examining the effectiveness of art therapy for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder.
The role of parenting styles in the development of conduct disorder in children.
The impact of chronic illness on mental health and well-being.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of gambling addiction.
The effects of social media use on body dissatisfaction and eating disorder risk.
The relationship between childhood ADHD and the risk of developing substance use disorders in adulthood.
Exploring the effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating specific phobias.
The role of early-life adversity in the development of borderline personality disorder.
The impact of workplace stress on mental health and job performance.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of panic disorder.
The effects of childhood abuse on self-esteem and self-worth in adulthood.
The relationship between personality disorders and criminal behavior.
Examining the effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy for individuals with schizophrenia.
The role of social support in the recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder.
The impact of childhood neglect on cognitive development and academic achievement.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of body dysmorphic disorder.
The effects of parental substance abuse on child development and mental health outcomes.
The relationship between childhood trauma and the risk of developing dissociative disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy for treating depression.
The role of trauma in the development of acute stress disorder.
The impact of unemployment on mental health and well-being.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of social anxiety disorder.
The effects of bullying on adolescent self-esteem and mental health.
The relationship between childhood ADHD and the risk of developing conduct disorder.
Examining the effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy for individuals with borderline personality disorder.
The role of social support in the recovery from eating disorders.
The impact of parental divorce on adult romantic relationships.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The effects of childhood trauma on cognitive development and academic achievement.
The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing anxiety disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating post-traumatic stress disorder.
The role of mindfulness in the treatment of depression and anxiety.
The impact of chronic pain on mental health and quality of life.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of generalized anxiety disorder.
The effects of childhood neglect on emotional regulation and self-control in adulthood.
The relationship between personality disorders and interpersonal relationships.
Examining the effectiveness of family therapy for individuals with schizophrenia.
The role of social support in the recovery from substance use disorders.
The impact of parental substance abuse on child behavior and emotional well-being.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of postpartum depression.
The effects of childhood trauma on social skills and peer relationships.
The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing mood disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for trauma-related disorders.
The role of self-compassion in the treatment of eating disorders.
The impact of chronic illness on family dynamics and relationships.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of specific phobias.
The effects of childhood abuse on emotional intelligence and empathy in adulthood.
The relationship between personality disorders and job performance.
Examining the effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy for individuals with bipolar disorder.
The role of social support in the recovery from depression.
The impact of childhood neglect on attachment styles and intimate relationships in adulthood.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of bipolar disorder.
The effects of childhood trauma on executive functioning and decision-making abilities.
The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing personality disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating panic disorder.
The role of self-esteem in the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder.
The impact of chronic stress on immune function and physical health.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
The effects of childhood abuse on social cognition and interpersonal relationships.
The relationship between personality disorders and treatment outcomes.
Examining the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for individuals with social anxiety disorder.
The role of social support in the recovery from anxiety disorders.
The impact of childhood trauma on emotional regulation and impulse control.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of substance use disorders.
The effects of childhood neglect on cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills.
The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing eating disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating post-traumatic stress disorder.
The role of self-compassion in the treatment of anxiety disorders.
The impact of chronic illness on psychological well-being and coping strategies.
The effects of childhood abuse on emotional regulation and anger management in adulthood.
The relationship between personality disorders and suicide risk.
Examining the effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy for individuals with anxiety disorders.
The role of social support in the recovery from obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The impact of childhood neglect on self-esteem and self-confidence in adulthood.
Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of dissociative identity disorder.
The effects of childhood trauma on attachment styles and romantic relationships in adulthood.
The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing substance use disorders.
Exploring the effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating generalized anxiety disorder.
The role of self-esteem in the treatment of panic disorder.
The impact of chronic stress on mental health and cognitive functioning.

These essay topic ideas provide a wide range of options to explore the fascinating field of abnormal psychology. Remember to choose a topic that interests you and allows you to delve deeper into the subject matter. Good luck with your essays!

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50+ Research Topics for Psychology Papers

How to Find Psychology Research Topics for Your Student Paper

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

Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Specific Branches of Psychology
Topics Involving a Disorder or Type of Therapy
Human Cognition
Human Development
Critique of Publications
Famous Experiments
Historical Figures
Specific Careers
Case Studies
Literature Reviews
Your Own Study/Experiment

Are you searching for a great topic for your psychology paper ? Sometimes it seems like coming up with topics of psychology research is more challenging than the actual research and writing. Fortunately, there are plenty of great places to find inspiration and the following list contains just a few ideas to help get you started.

Finding a solid topic is one of the most important steps when writing any type of paper. It can be particularly important when you are writing a psychology research paper or essay. Psychology is such a broad topic, so you want to find a topic that allows you to adequately cover the subject without becoming overwhelmed with information.

I can always tell when a student really cares about the topic they chose; it comes through in the writing. My advice is to choose a topic that genuinely interests you, so you’ll be more motivated to do thorough research.

In some cases, such as in a general psychology class, you might have the option to select any topic from within psychology's broad reach. Other instances, such as in an abnormal psychology course, might require you to write your paper on a specific subject such as a psychological disorder.

As you begin your search for a topic for your psychology paper, it is first important to consider the guidelines established by your instructor.

Research Topics Within Specific Branches of Psychology

The key to selecting a good topic for your psychology paper is to select something that is narrow enough to allow you to really focus on the subject, but not so narrow that it is difficult to find sources or information to write about.

One approach is to narrow your focus down to a subject within a specific branch of psychology. For example, you might start by deciding that you want to write a paper on some sort of social psychology topic. Next, you might narrow your focus down to how persuasion can be used to influence behavior .

Other social psychology topics you might consider include:

Prejudice and discrimination (i.e., homophobia, sexism, racism)
Social cognition
Person perception
Social control and cults
Persuasion, propaganda, and marketing
Attraction, romance, and love
Nonverbal communication
Prosocial behavior

Psychology Research Topics Involving a Disorder or Type of Therapy

Exploring a psychological disorder or a specific treatment modality can also be a good topic for a psychology paper. Some potential abnormal psychology topics include specific psychological disorders or particular treatment modalities, including:

Eating disorders
Borderline personality disorder
Seasonal affective disorder
Schizophrenia
Antisocial personality disorder
Profile a type of therapy (i.e., cognitive-behavioral therapy, group therapy, psychoanalytic therapy)

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Human Cognition

Some of the possible topics you might explore in this area include thinking, language, intelligence, and decision-making. Other ideas might include:

False memories
Speech disorders
Problem-solving

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Human Development

In this area, you might opt to focus on issues pertinent to early childhood such as language development, social learning, or childhood attachment or you might instead opt to concentrate on issues that affect older adults such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Some other topics you might consider include:

Language acquisition
Media violence and children
Learning disabilities
Gender roles
Child abuse
Prenatal development
Parenting styles
Aspects of the aging process

Do a Critique of Publications Involving Psychology Research Topics

One option is to consider writing a critique paper of a published psychology book or academic journal article. For example, you might write a critical analysis of Sigmund Freud's Interpretation of Dreams or you might evaluate a more recent book such as Philip Zimbardo's The Lucifer Effect: Understanding How Good People Turn Evil .

Professional and academic journals are also great places to find materials for a critique paper. Browse through the collection at your university library to find titles devoted to the subject that you are most interested in, then look through recent articles until you find one that grabs your attention.

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Famous Experiments

There have been many fascinating and groundbreaking experiments throughout the history of psychology, providing ample material for students looking for an interesting term paper topic. In your paper, you might choose to summarize the experiment, analyze the ethics of the research, or evaluate the implications of the study. Possible experiments that you might consider include:

The Milgram Obedience Experiment
The Stanford Prison Experiment
The Little Albert Experiment
Pavlov's Conditioning Experiments
The Asch Conformity Experiment
Harlow's Rhesus Monkey Experiments

Topics of Psychology Research About Historical Figures

One of the simplest ways to find a great topic is to choose an interesting person in the history of psychology and write a paper about them. Your paper might focus on many different elements of the individual's life, such as their biography, professional history, theories, or influence on psychology.

While this type of paper may be historical in nature, there is no need for this assignment to be dry or boring. Psychology is full of fascinating figures rife with intriguing stories and anecdotes. Consider such famous individuals as Sigmund Freud, B.F. Skinner, Harry Harlow, or one of the many other eminent psychologists .

Psychology Research Topics About a Specific Career

Another possible topic, depending on the course in which you are enrolled, is to write about specific career paths within the field of psychology . This type of paper is especially appropriate if you are exploring different subtopics or considering which area interests you the most.

In your paper, you might opt to explore the typical duties of a psychologist, how much people working in these fields typically earn, and the different employment options that are available.

Topics of Psychology Research Involving Case Studies

One potentially interesting idea is to write a psychology case study of a particular individual or group of people. In this type of paper, you will provide an in-depth analysis of your subject, including a thorough biography.

Generally, you will also assess the person, often using a major psychological theory such as Piaget's stages of cognitive development or Erikson's eight-stage theory of human development . It is also important to note that your paper doesn't necessarily have to be about someone you know personally.

In fact, many professors encourage students to write case studies on historical figures or fictional characters from books, television programs, or films.

Psychology Research Topics Involving Literature Reviews

Another possibility that would work well for a number of psychology courses is to do a literature review of a specific topic within psychology. A literature review involves finding a variety of sources on a particular subject, then summarizing and reporting on what these sources have to say about the topic.

Literature reviews are generally found in the introduction of journal articles and other psychology papers , but this type of analysis also works well for a full-scale psychology term paper.

Topics of Psychology Research Based on Your Own Study or Experiment

Many psychology courses require students to design an actual psychological study or perform some type of experiment. In some cases, students simply devise the study and then imagine the possible results that might occur. In other situations, you may actually have the opportunity to collect data, analyze your findings, and write up your results.

Finding a topic for your study can be difficult, but there are plenty of great ways to come up with intriguing ideas. Start by considering your own interests as well as subjects you have studied in the past.

Online sources, newspaper articles, books , journal articles, and even your own class textbook are all great places to start searching for topics for your experiments and psychology term papers. Before you begin, learn more about how to conduct a psychology experiment .

What This Means For You

After looking at this brief list of possible topics for psychology papers, it is easy to see that psychology is a very broad and diverse subject. While this variety makes it possible to find a topic that really catches your interest, it can sometimes make it very difficult for some students to select a good topic.

If you are still stumped by your assignment, ask your instructor for suggestions and consider a few from this list for inspiration.

Hockenbury, SE & Nolan, SA. Psychology. New York: Worth Publishers; 2014.
Santrock, JW. A Topical Approach to Lifespan Development. New York: McGraw-Hill Education; 2016.

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

89 Psychopathology Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best psychopathology topic ideas & essay examples, 🎓 good research topics about psychopathology, ⭐ simple & easy psychopathology essay titles, ❓ psychopathology essay questions.

Ted Bundy’s Profile of a Psychopath The absence of healthy relationships to emulate in the future made it difficult for Bundy to create his own. Information released to the general public includes the physical appearance of the individual and the profile […]
Developmental History of the Psychopathological Condition Therefore, in the current case, it is notable that the child’s mother did not consume adequate nutrients to support the growth processes of the fetus because she was an alcoholic and a drug addict.
Ted Bundy, a Serial Killer and Psychopath The same was said about Ted Bundy, one of the most notorious serial killers in the criminal history of the United States.
The Psychopathology of Bipolar Disorder In addition to the depressive and manic episodes, patients may experience mixed episodes of the bipolar disorder, which severely distort neuropsychological coordination thus impairing cognitive functions. The two period episodes of bipolar disorder, mania and […]
Sociopaths and Psychopaths: Similarities and Differences On the other hand, it is argued that the sociopath usually poses a greater amount of danger to the society due to the fact that they are much greater in numbers, are capable of “metastasizing” […]
Diagnosis in Child Psychopathology Given a chance to be in the committee for a new edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, I would include non-suicidal self-injury as a new child/adolescent disorder.
“Psychopathy and Antisocial Personality Disorder” by Robert D. Hare The main source of the problem is the failure of the DSM versions to provide clear definitions for ASPD and psychopathy.
Psychopathology: Nature vs. Nurture The discourse about nature and nurture concerning mental illness often involves factors that influence the mental development of a person. While some gene disorders also exist, schizophrenia is a classical case for explaining the role […]
Antisocial Personality Disorder and Psychopathy: The AMPD in Review The main task of the writing is to show a different perspective on development and a new perspective on the study of the connection between antisocial disorder and psychopathy.
Schizophrenia and Workplace Behaviors Besides, their condition and performance at work may be significantly improved in case of a proper help from the company’s leadership.
Cultural Influence on Developmental Psychopathology Tendency to over relate: Culture can be defined in such a way that it seeks to defend the values and practices of a certain group taking advantage of the fact that the ideal values have […]
Psychopathology. The United States National Mental Health This factor is closely connected with the wrong identification of the person’s role in the world; Very often the level of mental disorders in the nation depends on the cultural lifestyle and values of people.
Psychopathy Development in Children Most studies do not even have a satisfactory resolution to the inquiry of whether children become psychopaths as a result of nature or environmental impacts in the course of upbringing.
Identifying Psychopathic Fraudsters The interview is focused on who psychopaths are, why they are dangerous to corporations, and how corporate psychopaths can be detected and treated.
Child Sex Abuse Impact on Adult Psychopathology The article by Roth addresses the issue of gene-environment and the important role it plays in determining the functions of the brain.
Sleep and Psychopathology Relationships – Psychology Generally, available evidence shows that feelings of negative emotions such as anxiety are characterized by the dysfunction in cognitive and interpersonal spheres.
Psychopathy and Externalized Disorders Knowledge on the prevalence and the characteristics of psychopathy is important in identifying cases of psychopathy and explaining relationships between psychopathy and social disorders such as crime.
Psychopathologies: Co-occurring Diagnoses According to Samuel &Widiger it was developed as an acknowledgment that a significant number of people suffer clinically considerable mood as well as anxiety disorder symptomatology; however, these symptoms do not meet the attributes for […]
Contingent Negative Variation in Psychopaths The prediction of a difference for early contingent negative variation in psychopaths was lower than for non psychopaths. Interpretation of the early contingent negative variation difference was significantly larger in psychopaths than in nonpsychopaths.
Münchhausen Syndrome: Psychopathology and Management Even as researchers continue unraveling the truth behind the causes of this disorder, it is believed that Munchausen syndrome affects people who may have suffered a severe illness in their childhood or may have experienced […]
Without Conscience: The Disturbing World of the Psychopaths among Us The second message the author gives is that it should be known that the personality of a psychopathic patient is unlikely to change.
Introduction to Psychopathology With psychology, in general, dealing with the study of human behavior and behavior change; abnormal psychology is therefore a branch of psychology that investigates people’s maladjusted behavior relative to the socially approved behavior.
Neuropeptides and Behavior: From Motivation to Psychopathology
Women Undergoing Hormonal Treatments for Infertility: Psychopathology and Newly Diagnosed Mood and Psychotic Disorders
Loneliness and Schizotypy: Are Distinct Constructs, Separate From General Psychopathology
Avoidance: From Basic Science to Psychopathology
Lucid Dreaming: Intensity, but Not Frequency, Is Inversely Related to Psychopathology
Abnormal Psychology: The Theory of Psychopathology
Psychopathology: Abnormal Psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Approach
Creativity and Psychopathology: Similar Mental Processes Involved in Creativity and Psychosis-Proneness
Narcissistic Personality Disorder and Its Psychopathology
Adolescent Alcohol Exposure: Burden of Epigenetic Reprogramming, Synaptic Remodeling, and Adult Psychopathology
Childhood Maltreatment, Psychopathology, and Offending Behavior in Patients With Schizophrenia
Neurological Soft Signs and Psychopathology in Chronic Schizophrenia
Comorbidities Between Specific Learning Disorders and Psychopathology in Elementary School Children
Relationships Among Cognition, Emotion, and Motivation: Implications for Intervention and Neuroplasticity in Psychopathology
Child Psychopathology: Oppositional Defiant Disorder Interventions
Symptomatic and Chance Actions: Psychopathology
Gender and Age Differences in Safety-Oriented Personality Style or Phobicentric Psychopathology
Emotion Regulation Strategies Across Psychopathology
Comparing the Biological and Psychodynamic Paradigms of Psychopathology
Event-Related Potentials and Emotion Processing in Child Psychopathology
Nonsuicidal Self-Injury: Its Associations With Pathological Internet Use and Psychopathology Among Adolescents
Bridging the Gap Between the Lab and the Clinic: Psychopathology’s Grand Challenge
Loneliness and Social Distancing During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Risk Factors and Associations With Psychopathology
The Executive Function Impairments in Psychopathology: Bridging the Gap Between Clinical and Cognitive Approaches
Extending the Transdiagnostic Model of Attachment and Psychopathology
Legal and Ethical Issues in Psychopathology
Behavioral and Psychopathology Analysis
Cognitive Event-Related Potentials in Psychopathology: New Experimental and Clinical Perspectives
Increasing Our Insular World View: Interoception and Psychopathology for Psychotherapists
Mapping Psychopathology With FMRI and Effective Connectivity Analysis
Differential Susceptibility Theory in Psychopathology
Behavioral and Biological Approach to Psychopathology
Asymmetric Drug-Induced Parkinsonism and Psychopathology: A Prospective Naturalistic Study in Long-Stay Psychiatric Patients
Mental Imagery and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: A Neuroimaging and Experimental Psychopathology Approach to Intrusive Memories of Trauma
Expectations as the Missing Link Between Life History Strategies and Psychopathology
Mental Retardation Psychopathology
Embodying the Self: Neurophysiological Perspectives on the Psychopathology of Anomalous Bodily Experiences
Culture and Psychopathology: New Perspectives on Research, Practice, and Clinical Training in a Globalized World
Neuroscience Behind Psychopathology: Schizophrenia
The Psychological Basis: Psychopathology of Everyday Life
Does Poverty Cause Psychopathology or Does Psychopathology Cause Poverty?
What Are the Four D’s of Psychopathology?
What Is the Main Focus of Psychopathology?
What Is Another Term for Psychopathology?
What Is the Most Common Psychopathology?
What Do People Study in Psychopathology?
What Is Psychopathology in Simple Words?
What Careers Are in Psychopathology?
What Is the Theory of Psychopathology?
What Is the Difference Between Psychology and Psychopathology?
Why Is It Important to Study Psychopathology?
Who Uses Psychopathology?
Who Created Psychopathology?
What Are the Four Important Personal Components of Psychopathology?
Where Did the Term Psychopathology Originate?
Who Is the Father of Modern Psychopathology?
What Are the Four Models of Psychopathology?
What Is the Purpose of Psychopathology?
What Is the Formal Definition of Psychopathology?
What Is Medical Model of Psychopathology?
What Is Humanistic Model of Psychopathology?
What Is Psychopathology in Criminology?
What Is the Historical Overview of Psychopathology?
What Are the Objectives of Psychopathology?
When Was Psychopathology Invented?
BPD Research Ideas
Cognitive Psychology Topics
Bulimia Topics
Depression Essay Topics
Neuropsychology Topics
Dissociative Identity Disorder Essay Topics
Mental Disorder Essay Topics
Domestic Violence Paper Topics
Chicago (A-D)
Chicago (N-B)

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100 Psychology Thesis Topics for 2023

Students know the importance of developing great psychology dissertation topics for a graduate assignment. However, many don’t have the time to brainstorm ideas that meet the requirements their professors expect. We’ve done a lot of the heavy lifting and have put together a list of 100 psychology thesis topics suitable for several situations. Feel free to pick a topic and start writing your thesis proposal .

General Psychology Topics for High School

Give five top reasons why you would want to become a psychologist.
What kind of influence has psychology research had in other sciences?
Why are teenagers at higher risk of developing an eating disorder?
How are phobias developed in children under the age of twelve?
In what ways did Pavlov’s conditioning experiment contribute to our understanding of addiction therapy?

Child Psychology Research Paper Topics

What are the major differences between psychiatry and psychology?
Discuss mental tools that can be used to determine when children are lying to adults.
What were the ethical complications involve 12d in the Little Albert Experiment?
What does research suggest is the origin of intelligence in children?
How does emotional intelligence in children affect their learning abilities?

Cognitive Psychology Topics

How did Alan Turing’s suggestion that the brain is an organized machine lead to computers?
Do the “seven chunks of information” still hold through in research?
Can we develop working memory to retain greater long-term memory?
Can a person that has been convicted of a felony charge change into a law-abiding citizen?
How can cognitive therapy be used to help patients suffering from emotional disorders?

Developmental Psychology Topics

How do our perceptions of our experiences affect development in teenagers?
What are the four levels of development and which is most important in children?
Can a moral judgment be taught to toddlers who have latent reasoning skills?
How are our personalities developed through the influence of others?
Are children naturally beholden to one parent or the other?

Social Psychology Topics for College Students

How are a person’s original opinions influenced by the opinions of larger groups?
What psychological effects does spending too much time on social media have?
How do social psychologists deal with aggression and violence in young adults?
What impact has social psychology had on our understanding of online bullying?
How do family dynamics change when a member of the immediate family dies?

Sports Psychology Research Topics

Does aging have a bigger impact on retired athletes’ mental health than head trauma?
How is mental health affected by long recovery schedules for serious body injuries?
How does neuro-linguistic programming in professional athletes affect performance?
How do professional athletes mentally prepare for competitions?
How have approaches to sports training and preparation been affected by developments in psychology?

Controversial Topics in Psychology

How did the Milgram Obedience Experiments of the 1960s help us understand how we view authority figures?
How did the Stanford Experiment help further our knowledge of situational variables on human behavior?
How did Harlow’s experiments of affection (especially the lack of affection) lead to advancements in child development theories?
Does the implementation of capital punishment on sex offenders prevent them from committing a crime?
What is the link between criminal acts and teenagers that were bullied?

Health Psychology Topics for College Students

What impact do regular exercise and healthy eating have on mental health in young adults?
How have the media’s depictions of body ideals have negatively impacted how young adults see themselves?
What are the most effective strategies for getting people to develop healthy eating habits?
What can local governments do to help people maintain mental health after a disaster?
How do stress management techniques help people cope with difficult situations in the workplace?

Great Educational Psychology Topics

How can different technologies help students perform better at school?
Does working in a small group help students retain more information?
How does physical activity help students perform better on standardized tests?
What psychological factors should teachers consider as they develop each year’s curriculum?
In what ways do psychologists help develop confidence in students with learning disabilities?

Excellent Cultural Psychology Topics

What are some of the most difficult cultural situations young people face?
In what ways does developing culture roots with one’s family positively impact social behavior?
What stresses do young people feel when they return to their native countries?
What impact does cultural learning have on students in elementary school?
How does family support help young people cope with difficult decisions?

Psychology Topics to Write About

Why are adolescents more at risk of developing some type of eating disorder?
What are the negative effects of insomnia in patients being treated in a medical facility?
In what ways does group therapy positively impact a patient’s ability to overcome addiction?
Why should therapists refrain from prescribing ADHD medications to children?
What are the most effective ways of treating PTSD without using prescription medication?

Abnormal Psychology Topics

What are the psychological effects of telling either a truth or a lie among young adults?
What are the major causes of borderline personality disorder in teenagers?
In what ways does the level of insanity change in patients under specific treatment?
Why are some people more prone to suffer from personality disorders?
Can the Oedipus complex first introduced by Freud be used in treatment today?

Developmental Psychology Research Topics

What role does television media play in promoting violence in adults?
What are the major psychological characteristics in a child prone to aggression?
What are the major factors in sociopathic behavior among youth?
What are some traditional ways of parenting that have been proven ineffective?
What environmental factors increase the chances of child abuse by a parent?

Biological Psychology Topics

How are cognitive diseases related to the development of certain disorders?
How are our perceptions of the world around us affecting the way we behave?
Can alcohol addiction and other drug-related dependencies be tied to genetics?
Does biology prevent humans from experiencing a pure sense of free will?
In what ways does functionalism play into biological psychology?

Forensic Psychology Topics

How can psychology be used to identify and put suspects on trial for certain crimes?
How has forensic psychology assisted in the way we look at death penalty cases?
Can psychotic disorders be reevaluated as a result of better psych understanding?
Should mental diseases be considered in capital punishment cases?
How would you evaluate the mitigating effects of capital cases in people?

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34 Abnormal Psychology

Susan A. Nolan is Professor and Chair of the Department of Psychology at Seton Hall University.

Published: 17 April 2015
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This chapter offers recommendations, evidence-based when possible, on teaching abnormal psychology in an effective and engaging manner. In the first section, we address issues related to the content of an Abnormal Psychology course. We outline the traditional content areas, as well as current topics that are often underemphasized, such as controversies with diagnosis, and international and cross-cultural issues. In the second section, we provide an overview of pedagogical tools that are particularly relevant for an abnormal psychology course, including the use of case material, role-play, and simulation; we provide suggestions on how to use these tools to create a stimulating and interactive classroom. In the third section, we outline ethical issues that can emerge when teaching abnormal psychology, such as informed consent and classroom management of sensitive topics, and offer suggestions for creating an ethical classroom environment.

Instructors assigned to teach Abnormal Psychology should consider themselves lucky! In the American Psychological Associations (APA) glossary of psychological terms, abnormal psychology is defined as “The area of psychological investigation concerned with understanding the nature of individual pathologies of mind, mood, and behavior” ( APA, 2013 ). The abnormal psychology course (also called psychopathology) is one of the most popular courses in the psychology curriculum and holds intrinsic interest for many students ( Perlman & McCann,1999 ). As of 2005, it is taught at 98 percent of campuses and taken by 41 percent of psychology majors ( Stoloff et al., 2010 ). The demand can perhaps be attributed to the general public’s interest in and awareness of many of the topics covered in the course, and their perception of its relevance to many people’s lives. Not surprisingly, Nolen-Hoeksema (1998) noted that some students may take an abnormal psychology course to better understand friends and family who have been diagnosed with a mental illness. Indeed, in a survey of two abnormal psychology courses, Connor-Greene (2001) found that 96 percent of students reported knowing at least one person with a mental illness. Moreover, according to Connor-Greene, students already knew much of the appropriate terminology for various disorders ( Connor-Green, 2001 ). Regardless of the reasons, students are clearly motivated to enroll in an abnormal psychology course.

Yet, paradoxically, students’ excitement for learning about mental illness raises several challenges in the abnormal psychology classroom. First, there are pedagogical difficulties related to content: In particular, how do instructors maintain students’ interest while talking about integral components of the course matter that can be perceived as dry or difficult—research methods, individual differences, psychometrics, and neuroscience? Second, there are issues related to best practices in teaching: For example, how do instructors balance the engaging anecdotes that students might wish to share in class with “drier” empirical content? And third, perhaps particular to a course focusing on mental illness, there are challenges related to ethics: How do instructors uphold the ethics of the field of psychology in teaching and learning situations in which students sometimes stereotype others, disclose too much information, or attempt to diagnose based on a single undergraduate course on psychopathology?

This chapter provides recommendations, evidence based whenever possible, on how to most effectively teach abnormal psychology in spite of potential obstacles. Specifically, in the three sections of this chapter, we will try to address the questions we asked in the preceding paragraph. First, we will cover issues related to the content of an abnormal psychology course, with a discussion of the traditional content areas, as well as important topics that are both engaging and frequently underemphasized; specifically, we will discuss positive psychology, controversies related to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) ( American Psychiatric Association, 2013 ), and international and sociocultural issues. These sometimes-controversial content areas provide pedagogical fodder for introducing students to an empirical approach to thinking critically about ambiguous topics. And related to critical thinking, we will also discuss the importance of teaching skills as well as knowledge.

Second, we will consider pedagogical tools that are particularly important in an abnormal psychology course, such as using case material, connecting the material to “real life,” making difficult concepts approachable and engaging, and teaching students to be critical consumers of mental health information. We will share best practices related to both the overarching curriculum of the course and the day-to-day pedagogy in the classroom. Third, we will explore the ethical issues that arise when discussing mental health; from boundary issues to confidentiality, from informed consent to developing ground rules for in-class discussion. We will ground this discussion of ethics in the policy and guidelines that the field of psychology, and particularly the APA, has adopted.

At first blush, the content in an abnormal psychology course might seem obvious. A glance at the tables of contents of the bestselling textbooks shows a fairly common core. There are typically several introductory chapters—some history of the field, an overview of the perspectives on psychopathology, a primer on assessment and diagnosis, and the basics of research in this area, often including a piece on neuroscience. Then, there is a series of chapters that cover the major categories of psychological disorders, outlining the etiology, symptoms, epidemiology, and treatment for each. Following the disorders, there may be one or two cross-cutting chapters—perhaps a segment on health and stress or on the intersection of mental health and the legal system.

New instructors often feel pressure to cover all the chapters in this book, but the authors of this chapter encourage instructors to pare down their content coverage for three main reasons. First, textbooks tend to cover more material than can be taught in a semester. Second, there are important areas in the field that either neglected entirely or are folded into traditional chapters, but are current, engaging, and (in our opinion) important to address. We’ll discuss some of these areas later, and encourage you to include them in your courses. Third, as we will discuss, many instructors want to foster the teaching of skills as well as the teaching of facts. By focusing the course on fewer chapters, students’ time in and out of class can be used to help them develop skills in addition to attaining knowledge.

An examination of the tables of contents of 10 popular abnormal psychology textbooks provides some indication of the most commonly covered material as well as content that is more idiosyncratic. Although these books include between 14 and 19 chapters, there are only 10 separate chapters that are in all 10 books:

An introduction.

Perspectives on psychopathology.

Assessment and diagnosis.

Anxiety disorders.

Mood disorders.

Dissociative disorders.

Eating disorders.

Sexual and gender identity disorders.

Schizophrenia.

Disorders of childhood and adolescence.

There are also many content areas that do not show up as a chapter in at least one of the ten volumes reviewed: research methods, somatoform disorders, stress-related disorders, suicide, substance-related disorders, disorders of aging and cognition, personality disorders, and ethics and legal issues. It is important to note that textbooks frequently fold some of these topics into other chapters, but it is telling when a topic is not perceived to merit its own chapter.

Project Syllabus offers further insight into choosing content. The Society for the Teaching of Psychology’s Office of Teaching Resources in Psychology oversees Project Syllabus , an online forum that publishes peer-reviewed “quality examples of syllabi.” Of the six syllabi posted for the abnormal psychology course, five provide course calendars that list the chapters covered. Although a small sample, an analysis of these five “quality” syllabi yields useful guidance. These instructors included a mean of 10.4 and a median of 10 chapters in their courses—a good deal fewer than the mean of 16.6 and median of 17 chapters in the popular textbooks. Moreover, these five instructors only had six chapters in common on their syllabi: the chapters on perspectives on psychopathology, assessment and diagnosis, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, and personality disorders. The runners up? Different combinations of four of out of five of these syllabi included eating disorders, substance disorders, and developmental disorders. It is interesting that some topics (like eating disorders) that are always included in textbooks are not always included in a course. Our advice: Don’t be shy about cutting back to about 10 chapters to achieve the learning goals for your course.

As we noted previously, there are several other important areas beyond most commonly covered content that instructors might not immediately consider, but they are easily woven into the course. These topics are often mentioned briefly or provided as whole sections of a chapter of abnormal psychology textbooks, but they do not tend to be the topic of an entire chapter. We focus on several here as examples—positive psychology, changes and controversies related to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual ( DSM : American Psychiatric Association, 2013 ), and international and sociocultural diversity—but acknowledge that there are other important and current areas that instructors might include as well.

Positive psychology.

In their groundbreaking introduction to a special issue in the American Psychologist on positive psychology, Seligman and Csikszentmihalyi (2000) lamented the focus on psychopathology at the expense of positive experience. The authors explained that “the aim of positive psychology is to begin to catalyze a change in the focus of psychology from preoccupation only with repairing the worst things in life to also building positive qualities” (p. 5). Much of what positive psychology researchers study can be viewed as antidotes to the main topics in an abnormal psychology course. A discussion of the future and of optimism, key parts of positive psychology, can be discussed related to anxiety and worry. An exploration of flow and happiness in the present, also central to positive psychology, can be contrasted with a discussion of mood disorders. In fact, Seligman and Csikszentmihalyi observe that a study of positive qualities and personal strengths can help those with mental illness, pointing out that clinicians who emphasize clients’ strengths can bolster their clients’ resilience, and resilience is an essential part of any discussion on stress (and other disorders). The authors ask an important question for instructors of abnormal psychology: “What does mental health look like when seen from the perspective of positive psychology?” (p. 10).

We acknowledge that positive psychology has had its critics over the years (e.g., Lazarus, 2003 ) and stress that it is important to incorporate dissenting research into any discussion about this growing field. In spite of this, we urge instructors to incorporate at least a segment on positive psychology into their courses, if not a recurring piece. Although most students will encounter psychopathology themselves or in their loved ones at some point in their lives, all students can benefit from an exploration of positive psychology.

Diagnosis and the DSM.

Soon before this book went to press, the DSM headed into its fifth edition—(5th ed.; DSM–5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013 )- the culmination of a renewed discussion of the limitations of and controversies related to the diagnosis of mental illness. Here we will discuss three broad issues that instructors could cover in a segment on diagnosis to dispel the myth that diagnosis is an exact science. We will first discuss problems with a categorical system of diagnosis, as opposed to continuous measurement. We will then talk about the political, rather than the scientific, inputs into the DSM . Lastly, we will talk about the pros and cons of using a diagnostic system such as the DSM .

Over the years, numerous researchers and clinicians have pointed out the problems inherent in the DSM (e.g., Widiger & Clark, 2000 ). One major problem results from its categorical system of diagnosis, sometimes described as “qualitative deviations from mental health” (p. 164; Hyman, 2010 ). Hyman notes the lack of continuous, qualitative scales in psychopathology diagnoses, in contrast to quantitative or “dimensional” measurements frequently used in general medicine (e.g., blood pressure, cholesterol). A cutoff that differentiates health from a disorder is, ultimately, arbitrary, and continuous measures might both be more accurate and provide important nuanced information (e.g., Widiger & Samuel, 2005 ). Indeed, research shows that lower levels of symptomatology can constitute a precursor to a diagnosable mental illness and should be monitored and potentially treated ( Shankman, Lewinsohn, Klein, Small, Seeley, & Altman, 2009 ). Debates about the model of diagnosis—qualitative versus quantitative—can incorporate critical thinking into class discussions.

Second, students should consider the potential impact of human biases and agendas on the DSM (For example, Cosgrove and Krimsky (2012) outline the financial considerations that might have influenced the 170 participants in the development of the DSM-IV (4th ed.; DSM-IV; American Psychiatric Association, 1994) and DSM-5 (5th ed., DSM-5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013 ), They reported, for example, that 69 percent of those working on DSM-5 had financial ties to the pharmaceutical industry, an increase from the 57 percent of those working on the DSM-IV. Political and cultural debates can also usurp science as the sole determinant of what should be in the DSM). For example, in recent years, the validity of a diagnosis of Internet addiction has been debated; is it its own disorder, an ancillary to another disorder, or a “phase of life problem” (e.g., Pies, 2009 )?

Internet addiction as a diagnosis was described first as a joke by a medical doctor, but rapidly became a cultural catchphrase ( Morahan-Martin, 2005 ). The discussions that have ensued in the run-up have been as much about the cultural role of the Internet in society as the science on Internet addiction, and offer an interesting window on the many factors that influence the DSM ( American Psychiatric Association, 2013 ). Morahan-Martin (2005) describes the debates about whether this diagnosis “trivializes the concept of substance-related addiction,” whether fear of newer technology makes people view hours on the Internet as an addiction in a way that we do not view hours spent watching television, and whether Internet addiction as a diagnosis is referendum of online relationships. Ultimately, internet addiction was not included in DSM-5.

More controversially, the political maneuvering that led to the removal of homosexuality from the DSM in 1973 ( Spitzer, 1981 ), engagingly outlined in the This American Life radio episode “81 words” ( Spiegel, 2002 ), has been paralleled by more current debates about Gender Identity Disorder (GID) (e.g., Drescher, 2009 ). When the DSM-IV-TR ( 4th ed., text rev.; DSM-IV-TR ; American Psychiatric Association, 2000 ) was released in 2000, GID was diagnosed if someone identified with the other gender—termed “cross-gender identification”—and experienced discomfort about their “assigned sex or a sense of inappropriateness in the gender role of that sex” (p. 576). In DSM-5 (5th ed.; DSM–5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013 ), GID was replaced with gender dysphoria, which focuses on the emotional response to the experiences encapsulated in the previous GID diagnosis, rather than the behaviors. The psychiatrists and psychologists behind the changes cited a desire to reduce stigma as a reason for the revision ( Moran, 2013 ).

Similarly, discussions of sex and gender have changed over time. There was virtually no reference to sex or gender in the first DSM (1st ed.; DSM-1 ; American Psychiatric Association, 1952) in 1952; yet, since then, gender has increasingly been viewed as an important consideration, leading to controversy and debate (e.g., Kornstein, 2010 ). For example, there were controversies over Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder in the 1980s and 1990s, and discussions two decades later about whether women are overrepresented among those diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder with Atypical Features, which thus should not be considered “atypical” (e.g., Kornstein, 2010 ).

Finally, it is important to talk about the pros and cons of DSM -based diagnosis. On the one hand, the DSM plays an important role in mental health care. For example, diagnostic codes are necessary for clinicians to receive reimbursement from insurance companies, and the five-axis diagnosis model provides a useful shorthand for clinicians to communicate with one another. On the other hand, the DSM suffers from the problems described previously. In addition, researchers have noted inequities in its application, including bias based on race, gender, and social class (e.g., Garb, 2006 ). Moreover, because people who do not fit a diagnostic category are not covered by insurance, diagnoses might be manipulated for financial reasons ( Cooper, 2004 ). Further, a mental illness label can lead to stigma, which can exacerbate mental illness and lead people to avoid treatment (e.g., Ben-Zeev, Young, & Corrigan, 2010 ; Wahl, 2012 ).

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has criticized the DSM-5 (5th ed.; DSM–5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013 ) for many of these reasons, stating that while it still provides a necessary structure for clinical work, it no longer provides a sufficient structure for research. The NIMH has developed a new system for researchers, the Research Domain Criteria project, that they hope will “[lay] the groundwork for a future diagnostic system that more directly reflects modern brain science” ( Insel & Lieberman, 2013 ). In summary, with regard to the DSM students should be made aware that diagnosis is often flawed, not based solely on scientific evidence, and potentially harmful—at the same time that it is a necessary tool.

International and sociocultural issues.

Around the world, there is an increasing emphasis on the internationalization of higher education across the curriculum and in the classroom (e.g., Billings, 2006 ; Green, Luu, & Burris, 2008 ), with a National Research Council ( NRC, 2008 ) report emphasizing the importance of a global emphasis in the social sciences in particular. Within psychology, APA, (2007) has outlined 10 Principles of Quality Undergraduate Programs that are related to the knowledge and skills that should be taught in undergraduate psychology curricula; one goal relates to “sociocultural and international awareness” in which “students will recognize, understand, and respect the complexity of sociocultural and international diversity” (p. 10). Further, in 2008, the annual APA Education Leadership Conference focused specifically on the internationalization of the psychology curriculum.

In this section, we will discuss several of the many topics through which international and sociocultural diversity can be introduced in a course in Abnormal Psychology—the role of demographics such as gender, the need for clinicians to be culturally aware, and differences in the prevalence and expression of mental illness across cultures. First, it is important to highlight demographics, including gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, and social class. See the section on the DSM earlier, in which we discussed ways in which some of these demographic characteristics relate to the development of the DSM and to bias in diagnosis.

Second, it is important for students to consider the need for cultural awareness and competence in clinicians, not only when diagnosing, but also when treating people with psychopathology. For example, Sue (2003) delivers an impassioned defense of cultural competence, which he framed as a clinical attempt to “respond to the needs of different ethnic groups or to appreciate cultural influences” (p. 965), and the APA agrees with him. Indeed, APA policy is driven by its published multicultural guidelines for psychologists (2002). More specifically, in the context of psychosocial disaster relief, a lack of cultural understanding can be problematic, particularly when the relief is provided largely by Westerners, as is often the case ( Miller, 2012 ). Again, APA policy is instructive; there are published guidelines for psychologists who provide aid following international emergencies. The guidelines emphasize that “traumatic stress and traumatic stress reactions, and appropriate interventions for recovery are profoundly embedded in culture” ( APA, 2008 ). Although many students will not go on to use this information in practice, we believe that, even for students who will not enter the mental health field, understanding the impact of culture on healing can enrich students’ appreciation for the complexities and subtleties of psychological intervention.

Third, mental illness can look quite different from one culture to another, which can challenge students’ notions of what mental illness is and further elucidate the political and cultural influences on the DSM . Starting with the DSM-IV (4th ed.; DSM-IV; American Psychiatric Association, 1994), culture-bound syndromes, idiosyncratic disorders specific to a given location or culture, were an explicit category. For example, koro occurs in Asia and describes fear among men that their penis is retracting into their body or among women that their vulva and nipples are retracting (see Paniagua, 2000 , for an overview of culture-bound syndromes). In 1999, Guarnaccia and Rogler argued that because the DSM is now used internationally, it is incumbent on its developers to expand the research and coverage of these disorders. In response to arguments like this, the DSM-5 now includes a section on culturally relevant issues for each disorder. There also is evidence that disorders that once appeared tied to a given culture can spread. For example, anorexia nervosa, once an almost exclusively Western phenomenon, rapidly spread throughout Asia after the highly publicized death of a 14-year-old girl in 1994 ( Watters, 2010 ).

Teaching knowledge and skills.

To this point, we have focused on topics that are typically covered in an abnormal psychology course, as well as current topics that can cut across the traditional chapters. Yet, beyond the content, it also is important to consider the skills that we impart in an abnormal psychology course. First, the APA guidelines for the undergraduate major, described earlier, outline 10 learning goals, a number of which are skills-based—critical thinking, information and technological literacy, and communication skills among them. Further, psychologist Drew Appleby (2001) argues for explicit consideration of the “covert curriculum,” the skills and characteristics that students develop in their courses—qualities that overlap a good deal with the APA learning goals.

We believe that several of Appleby’s instances of these covert skills are particularly relevant in abnormal psychology. Students must learn to behave in a mature and respectful manner when discussing behaviors that might seem strange or humorous, but that might, for example, affect a classmate whose relative has a particular disorder. Students learn to manage stress and conflict successfully as they debate controversial issues with classmates who have had different experiences. Students must accept responsibility for their own behaviors and attitudes for a course in which expressing opinions might have real consequences for a classmate grappling with mental illness in her or his life. And throughout all this, students must build critical thinking skills as they wrestle with many of the inconsistencies and controversies in the field, such as the problems with the DSM-5 ( American Psychiatric Association, 2013 ), and seek out research rather than anecdotes to back (or overturn) their views.

In addition to choosing course content, identifying effective methods to help students comprehend this information is of fundamental importance to a successful course. Abnormal psychology courses afford instructors opportunities to incorporate a number of pedagogical techniques that can bring psychopathology to life for students. There is evidence that an interactive classroom leads to better learning than does a traditional lecture-based format ( Ruben, 1999 ), and the abnormal psychology course provides myriad opportunities to break away from a straight lecture format in engaging and memorable ways. In this section, we will present research on classroom activities and tools instructors can utilize to engage students when learning about psychopathology. Finally, we will recommend techniques and strategies that can be used to challenge negative stereotypes about psychopathology and the mentally ill.

Assessment.

There are several ways in which self-report assessments can be useful in an abnormal psychology course. For example, we can assess and challenge students’ understanding of mental illness with brief assessments of their existing knowledge. Alternately, we can provide students with self-report measures of symptomatology to help them understand a disorder in light of their own experiences. We will discuss specific approaches that address both of these goals in using assessment. With both types of assessments, instructors might find it beneficial to integrate discussions about validity, reliability, and cultural differences.

First, it can be helpful to begin the course with an assessment of students’ knowledge regarding mental illness and their exposure to and experience with someone who has been diagnosed with a mental illness. For example, as part of a classroom activity, Connor-Greene (2001) asked her students to list the following information: a psychiatric disorder; the person who suffered from it; and, on a scale from 1-5, how well they knew this person. Students were asked to limit their lists to people they knew who both showed symptoms of and received treatment for a psychiatric disorder. Based on this class exercise, 96 percent of the students reported knowing someone with a mental illness. Understanding incoming students’ knowledge about mental illness, including their misconceptions, can shape classroom discussions and provide information on how to best teach the course ( Connor-Greene, 2001 )

Second, assessments can be used for students to examine disorders in light of their own experiences. There is a range of assessment tools that can be used in this manner. Many measures are available for free online (e.g., assessmentpsychology.com ; apa.org ; psychologytools.org ). In addition, many abnormal psychology textbooks have an ancillary instructor’s manual that includes tests and measures that accompany the chapters on disorders. Alternately, campus counseling centers are often willing to share assessments that they use, which has the side benefit of informing students about services available on campus.

Some measures that can be used to introduce highly prevalent disorders include the Beck Depression Inventory ( Beck, Steer, & Brown, 1996 ), the Beck Anxiety Inventory ( Beck & Steer, 1990 ), and the Eating Disorders Inventory ( Garner & Garfinkel, 1984 ). We find that it is useful to introduce a specific disorder by having students complete an assessment anonymously. When students complete such assessments, they have a better memory for the symptoms and are better able to think critically about issues surrounding a particular disorder.

Assessments might also be useful for discussions of difficult or controversial topics; for example, students might be asked to complete a measure such as the Revised Facts on Suicide Quiz ( McIntosh, Kelly, & Arnett, 1992 ). After students score their own quizzes, the instructor can engage them in a discussion of why particular items were misleading or incorrect, and can provide students with a list of resources related to suicide prevention. Hubbard and McIntosh (1992) found that this assessment activity increased students’ understanding about suicide and suicide prevention by challenging their knowledge.

However, we issue a word of caution; prior to any in-class assessment exercise, instructors should highlight that these measures are for educational purposes and are not to be used for self-diagnosis. Further, instructors should provide referral information to the university counseling center in case students wish to discuss their self-assessments with a mental health professional. Providing students with resources on where to obtain more information regarding mental illness and with whom to speak when there is a problem, encourages students to be more critical and knowledgeable consumers of mental health.

Incorporating real-life examples.

Students can find it difficult to relate to the complex experiences of people with mental illness. Traditionally, categorical lists of symptoms have been used in textbooks and the classroom to help students understand psychopathology. However, this one-dimensional approach offers little in the way of true understanding. Abnormal psychology instructors commonly expand on such lists by incorporating anecdotal experiences into classroom activities. These real-life examples can include informal class discussions where students might share relevant experiences, classroom presentations by students or guest lecturers on their experiences, case studies, and different forms of media (e.g., news, movies/TV, books).

There are several advantages to incorporating real or fictional first-hand experiences; for example, they can enrich students’ learning experience by “complementing the outsider-looking-in” perspective of textbooks with an insider perspective ( Norcross, Sommer, & Clifford, 2001 , p.125). The inclusion of examples and narratives can also help students develop an appreciation of and empathy for someone who has a mental illness ( Banyard, 2000 ) through material that highlights the complexity of etiology, symptoms, treatment, and prognosis. Discussions related to this material might include struggles experienced by family members, potential detrimental side effects of medications, impacts of stigma, and controversial issues in psychiatric treatment. First-person narratives also can demonstrate that people are not defined by mental illness, and have qualities, interests, and relationships beyond their psychopathology; this can help students recognize the greater context in which mental illness exists ( Grauerholz & Copenhaver, 1994 ).

Real-life examples can also provide a context for students to discuss the various approaches to psychopathology. Indeed, anecdotal evidence suggests that students particularly enjoy assignments that weave case-study material with theoretical perspectives ( Perkins, 1991 ). Further, by having students dissect a case study using several theoretical approaches, students learn how different theories offer specific, but often overlapping, insight into abnormal psychology. Finally, these discussions allow students to consider the values and the limitations of the various approaches with respect to the explanations for and treatment of psychological disorders.

Real-life examples can be introduced in several ways. First, instructors can harness students’ personal experiences. As previously mentioned, students taking an abnormal psychology course often come in with prior knowledge about psychopathology. One fairly innocuous way to include students’ experiences is to start the course by asking students to raise their hand if they, a family member, a significant other, or a close friend have ever been diagnosed or treated with a mental illness. The broad question allows students to respond without indicating who in their lives received the diagnosis or treatment. In our experience, students are typically surprised that almost every student in the class raises her or his hand. This provides an opportunity to talk about the prevalence of mental illness and the importance of maintaining a respectful dialogue throughout the course, knowing that it is likely that at least one student has been affected in relation to almost every course topic. This technique may also be used with individual topics, particularly with common disorders such as those related to anxiety, mood, or eating. If confidentiality is a concern, instructors can also utilize a classroom response system in which students answer potentially sensitive questions by choosing a response via a remote. Aggregated results can then be presented to the class, potentially “normalizing” experiences and increasing participation ( Brewster, 1996 ).

We have also had students approach us to offer to speak about their personal experiences with a mental illness—either their own experiences or that of a close family member or friend. Prior to such presentations, instructors should meet with potential volunteers to assess competence to produce an effective presentation ( Tolman, 2011 ). For instance, it can be helpful to determine if volunteers will overly emphasize negative aspects of their experience, because this can adversely affect students’ attitudes ( Kendra, Cattaneo, & Mohr, 2012 ) or inadvertently introduce risky behaviors (such as methods used by those with eating disorders) ( Yager, 2007 ). Another potential approach is for students to write about their experiences in a way that can be shared with the class anonymously (e.g., posted on the class Web page, read by the instructor). This approach protects the student from potential repercussions, particularly increased stigma, and also allows the instructor to minimize the likelihood that a student may be predominantly motivated by attention seeking. Additionally, the instructor can provide feedback to the student during the writing process, to ensure that the content is maximally instructive to the class. There are also ethical considerations to student disclosure, which are discussed later.

Another option is for instructors to invite guest speakers who live with mental illness, who work for an organization such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness ( NAMI, 2010 ), or who work as mental health clinicians. Having a speaker share her or his own life story and the recovery process can provide information in an accessible manner. It can also be useful to have a practitioner talk about her or his work with people with a mental illness, particularly if the course instructor does not have current clinical experience. University resources, such as a counseling center, student health center, or disability support services office, are potential sources for a clinician guest speaker, providing the dual benefit of teaching students about the treatment of mental illness and raising students’ awareness about the on-campus counseling center.

Published autobiographies written by people who have experienced mental illness or case studies written by clinicians can provide yet another way for students to learn from “real-life” information ( Norcross et al., 2001 ). An added benefit is that autobiographies or case studies avoid some of the aforementioned potential pitfalls of student self-disclosure ( Yager, 2007 ). Several studies suggest that students respond positively to incorporating autobiographies into classroom learning. Norcross and colleagues (2001) found that when autobiographies were used to supplement teaching material, students reported appreciating this style of teaching and believed that the autobiographies enhanced their understanding of mental illness. The authors assert that, for the first time, students experienced psychopathology as a “continuum of normal traits” and commented that the autobiographies “transformed mental disorders from something unfathomable and bizarre in strangers to something understandable and familiar in fellow humans” (p. 127). Banyard (2000) provides students’ qualitative responses to the use of autobiographies as a teaching tool. Students reported that autobiographies “… made it easier to understand the disorder seeing it from an actual patient’s point of view ;… made me realize how a disorder affects one’s sense of self and lifestyle; the readings in the (text) book were effective in portraying the facts … but to gain a clear understanding I needed to be able to empathize … absolutely need a combination of both types of reading” (p.42).

In an experimental investigation of the impact of using a narrative approach, Mann and Himelein (2008) compared a “diagnostic approach” lecture (students learned the DSM-IV criteria, read excerpts written by clinicians, viewed a third-person-perspective video, and participated in a diagnostic task of identifying the disorder based on a ambiguous case) with a “humanizing approach” lecture that utilized first-person narratives, first-person video documentary, and a poetry assignment, where students were instructed to write from the perspective of someone with a mental illness. Students in the narrative-infused classroom showed a significant decrease in stigma in comparison to those in the “diagnostic approach” classroom.

There are several ways in which instructors can use films and other media in the Abnormal Psychology classroom. For example, they can use educational films, news articles, clips from the popular media, and other sources to teach about particular disorders, provide a humanistic and historical perspective of mental illness, or assist in the process of reducing stigmatization and promoting empathy toward the mentally ill.

The inclusion of media portrayals of mental illness can provide an engaging and memorable way to convey information and spur discussion. They can also have the additional benefit of reducing stigma and misperceptions ( Hyler, Gabbard, & Schneider, 1991 ), and increasing empathy toward people with mental illness ( Heston & Kottman, 1997 ; Schulenberg, 2003 ; Wedding & Niemiec, 2003 ). According to the U.S. Surgeon General’s ( U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1999 ) report, stigma is the number-one barrier to mental health treatment. Stigma is almost certainly enhanced by inaccurate depictions of mental illness in the media, a potential pitfall that will be discussed more fully later in the section on ethics. Given the detrimental effects of stigma, abnormal psychology courses can use the media to not only highlight the problems of stigma, but also increase empathy in students.

It is important, however, to choose examples in a thoughtful manner to avoid inadvertently perpetuating stereotypes, and to include assignments that explicitly challenge media sensationalization and misinformation. For this reason, we encourage instructors to use media portrayals of mental illness that have been suggested by reputable sources whenever possible. For example, the Society for the Teaching of Psychology’s Office of Teaching Resources in Psychology publishes several peer-reviewed film resources on its Web site, including Nelson’s (2006) Using Film to Teach Psychology: A Resource of Film Study Guides ( http://teachpsych.org/otrp/resources/nelson06.pdf/ ). There are also texts that identify films useful for teaching abnormal psychology (e.g. Wedding, Boyd, & Niemiec, 2010 ). Furthermore, instructors might utilize publisher-produced videos that accompany the textbook.

Instructors might also assign students to find media clips or articles, and connect this activity to information literacy. For example, Connor-Greene (1993) assigned students to locate newspaper or magazine articles that report psychological research and compare the media coverage with the write-up in the original source (i.e., the published journal article). Such an activity can spur students to be critical consumers of information, learning that the popular press is not necessarily a reliable source. Further, students can learn about the problems that derive from generalizing beyond anecdotal examples presented in media sources and from assuming a causal understanding based on limited information ( Connor-Greene, 2001 ).

In contrast to the problems with the popular media, educational films tend to provide material and facts that are more directly grounded in research. Because educational films hew closer to the facts than many mass media sources, they tend to avoid misleading exaggerations. However, successful use of educational media still requires careful planning in choosing films, providing opportunities for classroom discussion about the movie content and reactions, and drawing connections to the assigned academic readings ( Hudock & Werden, 2001 ; Maynard, 1996 ; Rosenstock, 2003 ).

There is evidence that students value the inclusion of educational films. For example, one study investigating a two-part classroom session, with a lecture in the beginning of the class followed by an educational film, showed positive findings incorporating film to supplement the lecture. Inclusion of film engaged students in thought-provoking discussions and was a useful didactic vehicle for conveying a wide range of psychological information. Students reported a better understanding about psychopathology and showed an increased appreciation for how educational films influence our thinking about mental illness ( Fleming, Piedmont, & Hiam, 1990 )

Additionally, the type of media can impact student learning outcomes. For example, in one study, Corrigan, Larson, Sells, Niessen, & Watts (2007) sought to examine the differences in stigmatizing perceptions in participants who viewed either a 10-minute video of a person with mental illness receiving an intervention or a 10-minute educational video narrated by the same person. Participants who viewed the education video showed an increased willingness to acknowledge that people with mental illness are not to blame for their symptoms and disabilities, whereas those in the intervention video showed increased empathy ( Corrigan et al., 2007 ).

Simulation of mental illness.

In addition to providing students with examples of others’ experiences with mental illness, simulation exercises can help students to develop a greater understanding of the symptoms and impact of mental illness and can foster empathy among students ( Chaffin & Adams, 2012 ; Banks et al., 2004 ; Mantovani, Castelnuovo, Gaggioli, & Riva, 2003 ). For example, in one study of disability broadly defined ( Wurst & Wolford, 1994 ), nondisabled students were asked to choose one of four types of disabilities, and then to enact that role for the day—a visual impairment that simulated macular degeneration (using light-filtered glasses that blocked the central visual field), a hearing deficit (using sound-reducing earplugs), a motor disability (using a wheelchair or crutches), or a psychological disability (not talking for the day). Regardless of the specific disability, students noted the adverse effects of having these disabilities and the challenges of routine tasks that students previously took for granted; moreover, they exhibited an increase in emotional empathy and appreciation for people with disabilities.

Another new technology-based pedagogical technique involves Virtual Reality (VR) Simulators in which participants experience delusions and hallucinations as part of a simulated psychotic episode. Students involved in one study of VR ( Tichon, Loh, & King, 2004 ) described the simulation as more effective than verbal descriptions in creating an understanding of hallucinations. More than 80 percent of students exposed to the VR software found this to be a positive experience and agreed that VR successfully facilitated their learning about schizophrenia. Learning by using technology to understand and experience these diagnoses also may promote the development of empathy and awareness ( Tichon, Loh, & King, 2004 ).

However, a synthesis of 10 studies examined the effects of using simulation of hallucinations to reduce stigma, and found mixed results ( Ando, Clement, Barley & Thornicroft, 2011 ). Although empathy toward those suffering from hallucination increased in some studies, the desire for social distance from people with schizophrenia ( Ando, et al., 2011 ) and stigma also increased ( Brown, 2010 ; Brown, Yolanda, Espenschade, & O’Connor, 2010 ). Furthermore, these studies only show the impact of simulation use on attitudes toward the mentally ill and not on behavioral stigma outcomes (e.g., social interaction and care of people with schizophrenia).

These finding suggests that the use of simulations as part of an effective curriculum is inconclusive and needs additional evaluation for efficacy. Brown and colleagues (2010) noted that simulations are effective when they are personal and contextual; are enjoyable; do not cause discomfort; and are supplemented with other forms of intervention, such as education or contact. Clearly, additional efficacy research is warranted. Further, students should also be cautioned that a brief experience with a disability simulation represents only a glimpse of the actual experience of living with a disability.

An additional beneficial approach for familiarizing students with mental illness is role-playing. Role-playing has been shown to change students’ perceptions of negative stereotypes of people with psychological disorders and increase empathy toward this vulnerable population ( Anderson, Gundersen, Banken, Halvorson, & Schmutte, 1989 ). In a typical role-play activity, students choose a psychological disorder, research its symptoms, depict its characteristics by writing a brief biography, and then role-play the character(s) to the rest of the class. Following role-play, Poorman (2002) observed an increase in students’ self-reported empathy with the Interpersonal Reactivity Index ( Davis, 1980 ), a finding that was supported by interviews from focus groups. Specifically, students, on average, developed an improved understanding of psychopathology, decreased judgmental attitudes, and increased sympathy toward those with mental illness.

Evaluation of student academic performance.

Although many instructors utilize traditional methods of assessment, the content and goals of an abnormal psychology course also lend themselves to less common approaches. For most of our assignments, but especially those that are atypical in structure or objectives, we include grading rubrics to help students understand expectations and to provide clear feedback on their work. (See http://www.williamaltman.info/Bill_Projects/Rubrics.html/ for suggestions regarding rubrics.)

As mentioned previously, cases (real or fictional) of people with psychological disorders can be used for both in-class exercises and take-home assignments. To provide opportunities for students to apply diagnostic criteria, instructors can select a case (or allow them to select one on their own from the popular media) for students to “diagnose.” In addition to enhancing understanding of specific diagnoses, these assignments can highlight some of the challenges inherent in diagnosis, including the requirements for symptom duration or the subjectivity involved in determining if a person’s behavior meets the “impairment” criterion. A diagnostic assignment can also work well as a final, integrative paper, in which students apply and evaluate multiple concepts discussed during the course (e.g., assessment methods, theoretical orientations, treatment approaches). Cases can typically be found in textbooks; moreover, most publishers offer stand-alone texts that present case examples. Case authors often provide related critical thinking questions, which could be used either for class discussion or as an assessment of student comprehension. In addition to written cases, most textbooks provide ancillary video interviews of people with psychological disorders that can be used either in class or for a take-home assignment.

As we discussed earlier, teaching abnormal psychology can provide opportunities to assess critical thinking in the context of the numerous “controversial” issues that invite debate and evaluation. Textbook series such as “Taking Sides” from McGraw-Hill has an edition focused on abnormal psychology (see Halgin, 2013 ). Two sides of a controversial issue are presented with related discussion/critical thinking questions. Students can write reaction/response papers to the readings where they evaluate the different arguments, provide and defend their own opinions, and cite research to support their stance. Additionally, as noted earlier related to Gender Identity Disorder/Gender Dysphoria diagnoses, public radio often airs “human interest” stories that involve questions related to psychopathology. Students could be assigned a podcast and be asked to evaluate the content with regard to accuracy, and type and strength of arguments.

We also discussed activities in which students critically evaluate the popular media’s presentation of psychological issues. To assess students’ development in information literacy, instructors can evaluate their ability to evaluate media portrayals in light of research and theory covered in class. For instance, instructors can lead students through in-class activities where they find psychology-related popular press articles from reputable news sources (the Newseum website provides links to daily newspaper front pages from around the world http://www.newseum.org/todaysfrontpages/default.asp/ ). Class discussion might focus on evaluating an article with respect to course concepts, such as diagnostic controversies, new treatment approaches, and ethical issues. On exams, students can then read and critically evaluate a brief, novel article in ways that parallel the previous class discussion. For example, students might read an article on someone who has been involuntarily committed, and discuss the individual situation in light of the pros and cons outlined in class. Then, on the exam, an article on a different person might be presented for students to review and comment. In addition to traditional approaches to evaluation of student learning, instructors can take advantage of the numerous ways to apply abnormal psychology to real-world experiences.

In addition to issues related to content and pedagogy, teaching abnormal psychology raises particular ethical and procedural considerations— considerations often not found in other courses in psychology and other disciplines. Most importantly, abnormal psychology courses commonly include activities that provide exposure to mental illness in the “real-world.” Such activities introduce concerns related to voluntary participation on the part of the student as well as competence to consent to involvement in exercises where people with mental illness are involved. Additionally, such activities can touch on issues of confidentiality, as well as whether the activities actually lead to the intended learning outcomes, such as the reduction of stigma. Lastly, given the prevalence of mental health symptoms in the United States ( U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1999 ), course content might overlap with issues directly and currently impacting students’ lives. This can lead to challenges in managing classroom behaviors and in effectively addressing students’ personal concerns.

Competence.

Although competence to teach specific content is relevant to any teaching situation, abnormal psychology courses are typically taught by current or former clinicians and by clinicians in training. Although this is the convention, that should not preclude instructors from other disciplines within psychology from teaching the course. In one study, students reported generally positive ratings when their abnormal psychology class was taught by an experimental psychologist ( Smith, 1989 ). For instructors who are concerned about whether they have the expertise to teach abnormal psychology, Sieracki (2009) provides several tips. Although the article, included in the Reference list later, focuses somewhat on clinical graduate students and new instructors, instructors from nonclinical fields might also find the suggestions useful.

Issues of informed consent.

Abnormal psychology courses lend themselves to experiential activities that, although typically interesting to students, can raise ethical concerns related to participation. In the same way that researchers are required to obtain informed consent from subjects, instructors might consider obtaining “informed consent” from students when they are asked to participate in activities that might be distressing, such as visiting a psychiatric facility or participating in in-class activities, such as sharing personal information or participating in pseudo-therapeutic activities. Students should always understand that their participation is voluntary and be afforded opportunities for alternate assignments, particularly if activities are related to grades ( Canu, 2008 ; Scogin & Rickard, 1987 ; Witting, Perkins, Balogh, Whitley, & Keith-Spiegel, 1999 ). When applicable, instructors should prepare students for the possibility of distress ( Scogin & Rickard, 1987 ) and have appropriate interventions prepared ( Canu, 2008 ).

As described in the previous section on pedagogy, introduction of personal accounts by those with mental illness can enhance students’ understanding of specific diagnostic content as well as decrease stigma toward those with psychological disorders ( Banyard, 2000 , Mann & Himelein, 2008 ). This is typically achieved through case literature and videos. Although we assume that consent was obtained from publishers who produce videos of people providing autobiographical accounts of their experiences, it can be useful to discuss relevant issues with students. Connections can be made between ethical discussions of competency to stand trial and competency to consent to share one’s experience for educational purposes.

For instance, if an instructor shows a video of a person experiencing psychotic symptoms, the class might discuss whether consent was obtained when the person was not symptomatic? Additionally, although students typically enjoy case material provided by instructors with clinical experience, ensuring the confidentiality of patients can be challenging, especially in small communities ( Halonen, 2005 ). Instructors might consider getting consent from their patients if they plan on discussing them in any depth during class. When there is any doubt related to confidentiality and consent of the patients being discussed, the instructor should err on the side of discussing published cases rather than her or his own experiences.

Impacting stigma.

As discussed earlier, prior studies suggest that exposure to those with mental health symptoms can reduce stigma (e.g., Banyard, 2000 ; Mann & Himelein, 2008 ; Wurst & Wolford, 1994 ), but stigma-reducing activities can also have unintended negative consequences (e.g. Brown, 2010 ). Limited research suggests that activities that emphasize learning about specific people and that focus on discussion and empathy building might be particularly effective ( Mann & Himelein, 2008 ). Regardless, instructors incorporating simulations, first-person accounts, and the like should use caution and examine the existing literature regarding potential impacts of various pedagogical approaches ( Brown, 2010 ).

Considering stigma is particularly important when utilizing popular media. As noted earlier in the section on pedagogy, accounts in the popular media can also provide challenges related to their negative portrayals of mental illness. In addition to inaccuracies with new media, films and television shows depicting mental illness are generally created for entertainment rather than educational purposes. As a consequence, depictions of people with mental illness are often incorrect or misleading ( Wahl, 1995 ), and are likely to emphasize disturbing characteristics, such as dangerousness ( Wedding & Niemiec, 2003 ). For example, Signorielli (1989) found that more than 70 percent of mentally ill characters in television dramas were depicted, either explicitly or implicitly, as committing acts of violence. This statistic contrasts with the fact that 92 percent of people with mental illnesses never show any signs of violence and only 4 percent of murderers show signs of psychological disturbance ( Swanson, Holzer, Ganju, & Jono, 1990 ). Mental health professionals also tend to be portrayed inaccurately (e.g., they are typically psychiatrists) or as incompetent ( Wedding & Niemiec, 2003 ).

Issues related to students’ own experiences.

In addition to learning more about the experiences of strangers with mental health issues, students in an abnormal psychology class might have their own direct experience with mental illness. The likely presence of students’ prior experiences raises ethical questions about the potential harm related to learning course material, including potentially insensitive comments by classmates and distress related to the personalization of course content. For example, students might become concerned that they or a close friend or family member has a mental illness. Limited data suggest a complex picture; learning about mental disorders has been associated with a decrease in student concern about their own likelihood of having a disorder but a possible increase in concern related to mental illness among family members ( Curtin, Martz, Bazzini, & Vicente, 2004 ; Hardy & Calhoun, 1997 ). To address any concerns a student might have about developing a disorder, instructors can try to emphasize that, in terms of genetics, probabilities do not mean certainties for the development of psychological disorders ( Connor-Greene, 2001 ). Publicizing campus and community resources can also empower students who have concerns about the mental health of themselves or family members ( Hardy & Calhoun, 1997 ).

Classroom management.

As previously stated, many of the topics related to abnormal psychology are intrinsically interesting to students, and often have personal relevance. Informal classroom discussions can be compelling and expand students’ understanding of mental health; however, they can raise classroom management concerns. Instructors should exercise caution that the entertainment aspect does not supersede the educational value ( Halonen, 2005 ) or that classmates are not made uncomfortable by inappropriate personal disclosures ( Perlman, 2007 ). In addition to redirecting discussions that begin to lose their educational value, instructors can suggest meeting individually with students who have difficulty identifying content that is appropriate for class discussion ( Perlman, 2007 ).

A situation in which a student has difficulties with in-class boundaries can be particularly challenging when a student is actively experiencing mental health symptoms that impact his or her classroom behavior. It creates a dilemma for an instructor who wants to be sensitive to the student in question but does not want the situation to negatively impact the rest of the class, either by making other students uncomfortable or consuming teaching time ( Halgin, 1982 ). Speaking with the student outside of class can help the instructor ascertain the student’s awareness of their behavior and any treatment the student might be receiving ( Goss, 1995 ; Halgin, 1982 ). A meeting with the student out of class can also facilitate referral to appropriate treatment resources if warranted (see later).

To manage in-class behaviors, instructors might selectively ignore the student or have another instructor sit with the student during class ( Goss, 1995 ). Halgin (1982) describes a situation in which a student with a thought disorder created regular classroom disruption. During a private meeting with the instructor, the student agreed to consider the educational benefit of his comments before contributing. The student was relatively successful throughout the semester, and the instructor only needed to remind him once about their agreement. In addition, instructors should contact campus mental health professionals directly if they have safety concerns related to a student’s behavior in or out of class ( Goss, 1995 ).

Students might also bring mental health concerns directly to the faculty member teaching the course, including concerns about their own vulnerabilities for certain disorders ( Halonen, 2002 ) or more direct requests for assistance from the instructor for themselves or family members. Although abnormal psychology courses can help students in their personal growth and development, the line between the coursework and “therapy” can become blurred, particularly if instructors have difficulty clarifying boundaries for students ( Halonen, 2002 ).

Perlman (2007) suggests using the APA’s ethics code ( APA, 2002 ) as a guide for interacting with students. For instance, in adhering to principles such as beneficence and nonmaleficence, and fidelity and responsibility, instructors should prioritize listening attentively and demonstrating caring when addressing student concerns. However, instructors should recognize the limits to their role, avoid a situation in which they take on a dual relationship (i.e., instructor, therapist) in a student’s life, and refer students to appropriate campus organizations ( Hardy & Calhoun, 1997 ; Keith-Spiegel, 1994 ; Perlman, 2007 ). Additionally, although safety issues take precedence if a student might pose a danger to themselves or others, “People’s Rights and Dignity” highlights the importance of respecting students’ privacy and confidentiality regarding sharing personal information that students disclose (see Perlman, 2007 for specific suggestions when students present with severe problems).

Although many suggest minimizing interactions with students with mental health concerns, Halgin (1982) asserts that teaching is not restricted to the classroom, and a “limited involvement” approach can positively impact students in nonacademic ways. For instructors choosing limited involvement, Halgin emphasizes an accurate assessment of one’s own competence related to possible clinical interventions, and the importance of identifying possible ethical and liability concerns.

Limitations of an undergraduate course.

Lastly, even in a course that emphasizes accuracy of information and effectively manages challenges related to discussing mental health content, students can be overconfident when applying the information they have learned to real-world experiences. They might overestimate their ability to diagnose and advise, with possible impacts on their personal relationships ( Halonen, 2005 ). Instructors can remind students that experiences in an abnormal psychology class do not qualify them to act as mental health professionals and that professional clinicians use complex methodologies to diagnose and treat ( Tomcho, Wolfe, & Foels, 2006 ). Additionally, emphasizing psychology’s scientific values, such as healthy skepticism and reliance on empiricism to make decisions can help students understand their own limits ( Halonen, 2005 ). Psychology courses, however, rarely provide explicit instruction for how to actively apply course-related material in daily life ( Pury, 2003 ). Providing exercises for students to practice how to respond if those in their lives ask questions or experience symptoms (e.g., refer them to a mental health professional; Pury, 2003 ) can help students apply the skills they have learned while being cognizant of their limitations.

In summary, we hope you enjoy teaching abnormal psychology, one of our favorite courses to teach. In this chapter, we first discussed the content of the typical abnormal psychology course, encouraging instructors to narrow their focus rather than covering the entire textbook and to consider including current topics such as positive psychology and controversies with the DSM ( American Psychiatric Association, 2013 ). We next discussed pedagogy that is unique to the abnormal psychology course, including the use of autobiographical narratives to better understand psychopathology, incorporating film and media in providing humanistic and historical perspective of mental disorders, and using simulations to improve attitudes toward mental illness.

Finally, we outlined ethical considerations, some of which are particularly relevant to abnormal psychology; these included suggestions to manage content that might have emotional implications for students, connect topics in the course with the APA ethics code (e.g., informed consent, fidelity and responsibility), and manage students’ beliefs regarding their own clinical expertise after taking an undergraduate class. We hope these discussions will help you achieve the learning objectives you outlined for your course, and leave your students with knowledge, skills, and critical thinking tools that will help them navigate mental health issues they encounter in their lives.

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Psychology Dissertation Topics

Published by Carmen Troy at January 10th, 2023 , Revised On May 17, 2024

Introduction

Psychology entails the study of mental processes and behaviour. Over the last several years, the demand for psychology graduates has continuously risen due to the growing number of people with psychic problems.

As a psychology student, you can explore one of the many areas of psychology as part of your dissertation project. You can specialise in industrial physiology, mental health, behavioural psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, personality psychology, social psychology, biological psychology, and psychosocial psychology.

While there are many topic options for psychology students, make sure that you choose one where there is a gap in the literature and more work needs to be done.

To help you get started with brainstorming for psychology topic ideas, we have developed a list of the latest topics that can be used for writing your psychology dissertation.

You may also want to start your dissertation by requesting a brief research proposal from our writers on any of these topics, which includes an introduction to the topic, research question , aim and objectives , literature review along with the proposed methodology of research to be conducted. Let us know if you need any help in getting started.

Check our dissertation examples to get an idea of how to structure your dissertation .

Review the full list of dissertation topics here.

Psychology Research Topics

Impact of automation in the manufacturing sector on employee distress and happiness in the uk- an exploratory study finding the psychoeconomic factors.

Research Aim: This study intends to find the impact of automation in the manufacturing sector on employee distress and happiness in the UK. It will explore the moderating Psychoeconomic (Psychological and Economic) factors affected by the increasing automation in the manufacturing industry, affecting the employees’ distress and happiness levels. Furthermore, it will examine the strategies implemented by the manufacturing companies to prevent their employees from the anxiety and unhappiness induced by automation after the technological revolution.

Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Performance Among Adults Working from Home during COVID-19 in the UK

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse the impact of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance among adults working from home during COVID-19 in the UK. It will identify how sleep deprivation during COVID-19 affected various mental abilities of employees who were forced to work from home. It will also see how these abilities affect the employees’ productivity during COVID-19. Additionally, it will show the policies adopted by the companies to prevent their employees from working overtime to have proper sleep. And how does it improve their cognitive performance and productivity?

Effects of Bad Incidents on Children’s Intelligence- A Critical Assessment through a Clinical Psychology Lens

Research Aim: This research shows the effects of bad incidents on children’s intelligence. It will use a clinical psychology lens to show how clinicians see the relationship between bad incidents in childhood and their impact on children’s intelligence in later life. And in which was these incidents shape the intelligence of children while growing up. Furthermore, it will present a wide range of clinical procedures to overcome the lingering effects of bad incidents on children’s intelligence in later life.

Impact of Marriage Satisfaction on Job Performance in High-Stress Jobs- A Case of Individuals Working in Investment Firms in the UK

Research Aim: This research analyses the impact of marriage satisfaction on job performance in high-stress jobs. It will use investment firms in the UK as a case study to analyse how marriage satisfaction affects the performance of men and women working in high-stress jobs such as trading and investments. Moreover, it will explore various psychological parts of the job affected by the problems in a marriage. Lastly, it will recommend ways to offset the bad effects of unstable marriage to improve job performance.

The Role of Educational-Psychological Counseling in Career Selection among Immigrant Children in the UK

Research Aim: This research investigates the role of educational-psychological counselling in career selection among immigrant children in the UK. It will show how educational-psychological counselling different aspects of their academic life and help them decide what to pursue in later life. It will also show how this counselling can help them believe that despite coming from outside of the UK, they still have a chance to succeed.

The Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Interventions (MBIs) on Reducing Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression

Research Aim: This study investigates the effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Interventions (MBIs) in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, It focuses on exploring the comparative efficacy of different types of MBIs and their potential mechanisms of action.

Investigate the impact of introducing mindfulness programs in school curricula to enhance mental well-being among adolescents.

Research Aim: This study aims to examine the impact of integrating mindfulness programs into school curricula to enhance mental well-being among adolescents. Through empirical investigation, it seeks to assess the effectiveness of mindfulness interventions in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression levels, as well as promoting overall psychological resilience and positive emotional regulation. Additionally, the research aims to explore potential factors influencing program efficacy.

Exploring the Link Between Mood and Innovation in Entrepreneurship

Research Aim: This research investigates the intricate relationship between mood and innovation within the context of entrepreneurship. By exploring how varying moods influence the generation, adoption, and implementation of innovative ideas by entrepreneurs, the study seeks to uncover potential patterns and mechanisms that drive entrepreneurial creativity. The research further explores how understanding this link is crucial for informing strategies to foster innovation within entrepreneurial ventures.

An Examination of the Interplay Between Depression and Creative Writing: Case Studies in Literature

Research Aim: This research examines the complex interplay between depression and creative writing through case studies in literature. It focuses on the experiences of writers who have battled depression and analysing how their mental health condition intersects with their creative process and output, this study seeks to shed light on the relationship between mood disorders and literary creativity.

Investigating the neurobiological basis of ADHD: brain structure, neurotransmitter function, and genetics.

Research Aim: The study explores the interplay between brain structure, neurotransmitter function, and genetic factors in individuals with ADHD. It focuses on elucidating the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the disorder.

Examine the relationship between ADHD and comorbid mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.

Research Aim: This study explores the complex relationship between ADHD and comorbid mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. It discusses the underlying mechanisms, common risk factors, and potential therapeutic implications for effective management and treatment strategies.

Covid-19 Psychology Research Topics

Topic 1: impacts of coronavirus on the mental health of various age groups.

Research Aim: This study will reveal the impacts of coronavirus on the mental health of various age groups

Topic 2: Mental health and psychological resilience during COVID-19

Research Aim: Social distancing has made people isolated and affected their mental health. This study will highlight various measures to overcome the stress and mental health of people during coronavirus.

Topic 3: The mental health of children and families during COVID-19

Research Aim: This study will address the challenging situations faced by children and families during lockdown due to COVID-19. It will also discuss various ways to overcome the fear of disease and stay positive.

Topic 4: Mental wellbeing of patients during Coronavirus pandemic

Research Aim: This study will focus on the measures taken by the hospital management, government, and families, to ensure the mental wellbeing of patients, especially COVID-19 patients.

Psychology Dissertation Topics in Social Sciences

Topic 1: kids and their relatives with cancer: psychological challenges.

Research Aim: In cancer diagnoses and therapies, children often don’t know what happens. Many have psychosocial problems, including rage, terror, depression, disturbing sleep, inexpiable guilt, and panic. Therefore, this study identifies and treats the child and its family members’ psychological issues.

Topic 2: Hematopoietic device reaction in ophthalmology patient’s radiation therapy

Research Aim: This research is based on the analysis of hematopoietic devices’ reactions to ophthalmology radiation.

Topic 3: Psychological effects of cyberbullying Vs. physical bullying: A counter study

Research Aim: This research will focus on the effects of cyberbullying and physical bullying and their consequences on the victim’s mental health. The most significant part is the counter effects on our society’s environment and human behaviour, particularly youth.

Topic 4: Whether or not predictive processing is a theory of perceptual consciousness?

Research Aim: This research aims to identify whether predictive processing is a theory of perceptual consciousness or not.

Topic 5: Importance of communication in a relationship

Research Aim: This research aims to address the importance of communication in relationships and the communication gap consequences.

Topic 6: Eating and personality disorders

Research Aim: This research aims to focus on eating and personality disorders

Topic 7: Analysis of teaching, assessment, and evaluation of students and learning differences

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse teaching methods, assessment, and evaluation systems of students and their learning differences

Topic 8: Social and psychological effects of virtual networks

Research Aim: This research aims to study the social and psychological effects of virtual networks

Topic 9: The role of media in provoking aggression

Research Aim: This research aims to address the role of media in provoking aggression among people

Psychology Dissertation Topics Behavioral Sciences

Topic 1: assessing the advantages and disadvantages of positive reinforcement in special education.

Research Aim: The strength and importance of praise in the workplace can have a significant impact on employees and move them from apathy to more happiness and satisfaction. Positive reinforcement motivates and encourages people for their respective tasks. This research aims to assess the advantages and disadvantages of positive reinforcement in special education.

Topic 2: Assessing the relationship between depression and anxiety from the perspective of student academic performance

Research Aim: Emotional disturbance is considered to be a psychological element that can lead to the deterioration of the daily activities of students. Since academic achievements are an integral dimension of students’ lives, depression, anxiety, and other emotional disturbance might lead to poor academic performance. Therefore, this research aims to assess the relationship between depression and anxiety on student academic performance.

Topic 3: How cognitive behaviour therapy helps in dealing with depressed adolescents

Research Aim: Cognitive behavioural theory is regarded as a well-established therapy for depression and other various mental illnesses in children and adolescents. It might be because CBT can reduce suicidal behaviour and thoughts among adolescents. The main purpose of this research is to identify how cognitive behaviour therapy can help in dealing with depressed adolescents.

Topic 4: Analysing the psychological impact of bullying on children’s personality and development

Research Aim: Any public humiliation can result in a child’s misconceptions, confusion and misunderstanding about their own personality and the surrounding world. Public humiliation can damage the psychology of children and hinder their overall physical and mental development. The key purpose of this study is to analyse the psychological impact of bullying on children’s personalities and development.

Topic 5: Assessing the impact of psychological pricing on consumer purchase intention

Research Aim: Psychological pricing, also known as charm pricing and price ending, is a market pricing strategy in which certain prices can have a psychological impact on consumers. This strategy also includes a slightly less than round number, e.g. 2.99, which could incline consumers to make purchase decisions in favour of the seller. Hence, this research aims to assess the impact of psychological pricing on consumer purchase intention.

Topic 6: Borderline Personality Disorder and Self-Cutting Behaviors – Are they Inter Related?

Research Aim: Borderline Personality Disorder is a mental health disorder that impacts the thinking process of an individual. This disorder impacts the way you think and feel about yourself and others. Relationships are unstable. There are extreme emotions and distorted self-image when a person is suffering from a borderline personality disorder. This research will discuss this disorder in detail and evaluate whether self-cutting behaviours are a result of this disorder or not.

Topic 7: Depression and its risk factors – How can it be prevented?

Research Aim: Depression is a psychological issue that needs immediate attention. There are a lot of factors that lead to depression. This research will talk about the various risk factors that contribute to depression in an individual. The research will also discuss ways and strategies through which depression can be managed and eliminated in some cases. Case studies will be a part of this research.

Topic 8: Childhood trauma and its long-lasting impacts on individuals in adulthood

Research Aim: This research will talk about an important issue i.e. childhood trauma. This includes emotional and physical trauma that a child had experienced in his childhood. This research will discuss whether this trauma will impact the individual further in his life or not. If an adult’s future life is likely to be affected by childhood trauma, then in what ways will it change the individual, and how will it shape his personality? All these questions will be answered with this research.

Organisational Psychology Dissertation Topics

The role of industrial psychologists, also known as organisational psychologists, is to apply the principles of psychology to marketing, sales, management, administration, and human resources problems that organisations face.

Typical tasks that organisational psychologists perform include but are not limited to organisational development and analysis, training and development, employee evaluation and selection, policymaking, and more. The following dissertation topics are developed with respect to organisational psychology:

Topic 1: Research in industrial and organisational psychology from 1980 to 2015: Changes, choices, and trends

Research Aim: This research will compare the choices, trends, and changes in industrial and organisational psychology. The years compared will be 1990-2000, 2001-2010, and 2011-2020.

Topic 2: Computerized adaptive testing in industrial and organisational psychology

Research Aim: This research will explore advanced techniques, i.e., computerised adaptive testing, in organisational and industrial psychology.

Topic 3: Leader-member exchange as a moderating variable in the relationship between well-being and job security

Research Aim: This research will analyse the leader-member exchange as a variable that moderates the relationship between job security and well-being.

Topic 4: Intelligent leadership and leadership competencies – Developing a leadership framework for intelligent organizations

Research Aim: This research will understand leadership competencies and intelligent leadership by analysing a leadership framework for intelligent organisations.

Topic 5: Burnout amongst executive staff: What are the main predictors? A review of literature from the UK and Europe.

Research Aim: This research will talk about the most pressing issue at workplaces right now, i.e. burnout, The study will include predictors of burnout by analysing literature from Europe and the UK.

Topic 6: Interior design and Industrial psychology – Investigating the role of employees' reward and motivation in shaping up the look of the factory or office

Research Aim: This research will understand the role of employee reward and motivation in shaping workplaces with a focus on how interior design can create a working environment for employees that enhances their motivation levels.

Topic 7: Investigating the impact of strategic business partnering for business organisations – A case study of any UK based company

Research Aim: This research will talk about the impact of strategic business partnering for business organisations. You can provide us with the name of the company you would want to base your research on.

Topic 8: Social science strategies for managing diversity: Industrial and organisational opportunities to enhance inclusion

Research Aim: This research will interrogate an extremely important issue of psychology, i.e., diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The study will be conducted with respect to social science strategies.

Topic 9: Studying Influencing Factors in Effective Training Programs in Organisations

Research Aim: This research will talk about the various psychological factors that influence training programs organised by companies.

Topic 10: To understand international branding in light of the concept of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions

Research Aim: This research will aim to understand international branding in light of the concept of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions. The research will be descriptive in nature and make use of secondary data.

How Can ResearchProspect Help?

ResearchProspect writers can send several custom topic ideas to your email address. Once you have chosen a topic that suits your needs and interests, you can order for our dissertation outline service which will include a brief introduction to the topic, research questions , literature review , methodology , expected results , and conclusion . The dissertation outline will enable you to review the quality of our work before placing the order for our full dissertation writing service !

Clinical Psychology Dissertation Topics

Clinical psychology can be defined as integrating clinical knowledge, theory, and science to understand and prevent psychologically based dysfunction and distress. Another aim of this branch of psychology is to promote personal development and behavioural well-being.

Clinical psychologists’ job responsibilities include conducting research, teaching, drug and alcohol treatment, assessing disorders, testifying in legal settings, and creating and managing programs to prevent and treat social problems.

A well-written dissertation in this area of psychology can help students to fetch a high academic grade. Here are some interesting topics in this area:

Topic 1: Which clinical and demographic factors predict poor insight in individuals with obsessions and compulsions?

Research Aim: This research will discuss the clinical and demographic factors that predict poor insight within individuals with compulsions and obsessions.

Topic 2: Anger beliefs and behaviour; An Investigation of associations with Hypomania in a non-clinical sample

Research Aim: This research will investigate anger, behaviour, and beliefs concerning hypomania in a non-clinical sample.

Topic 3: Clinical psychologists’ experiences of accessing personal therapy during training: A narrative analysis

Research Aim: This research will discuss clinical psychologists’ experiences of accessing personal therapy during training. This will be a narrative analysis.

Topic 4: Exploring body image and identity in people who have had a heart or lung transplant

Research Aim: This research will help explore the identity and body image of people who have had a heart or lung transplant. All related issues will be discussed in this study.

Topic 5: Psychosocial adjustment to renal failure and consequent dialysis

Research Aim: This research will explore the psychosocial adjustment required during renal failure. The study will also discuss dialysis, which will result in renal failure.

Topic 6: Experiences of psychosocial formulation within a biopsychosocial model of care for psychosis

Research Aim: This research will talk about psychosocial formulation experiences within a biopsychosocial model of care for psychosis.

Topic 7: Experiences and their association with eating behaviour in adulthood

Research Aim: This research will investigate the relationship between individual experiences and eating behaviour in adulthood. The study will furthermore present suggestions as to how these conditions can be improved.

Topic 8: Barriers to communicating about sexual dysfunction following heart trauma

Research Aim: This research will talk about an important issue i.e. sexual dysfunction. However, the study will be conducted concerning the issue being developed due to heart trauma.

Topic 9: Validation of a new scale assessing the use of strategies to change another person’s mood or emotional state

Research Aim: This research will investigate and try to validate a new scale that will be used to assess strategies for changing another person’s emotional state or mood.

Topic 10: Examining Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) within a cognitive framework

Research Aim: This research will investigate an important psychological issue, i.e. depression. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) will be assessed with a cognitive framework.

Also Read: Construction Engineering Dissertation Topics

Cognitive Psychology Dissertation Topics

Cognitive Psychology can be defined as the study of mental processes such as thinking, creativity, problem solving, perception, memory, language use, and attention through neuropsychology, computer modeling, and experimentation.

Cognitive psychologists are primarily responsible for investigating how the human brain absorbs and interprets information at micro and macro levels. This area of psychology is broad. Therefore you will have many topic options to choose from. Please see below some titles if you are looking to base your dissertation on the field of cognitive psychology.

Topic 1: Adolescent perceptions and beliefs of proactive-reactive aggression explored through the social information processing model of aggression

Research Aim: This research will talk about various perceptions and beliefs of adolescents with respect to proactive-reactive aggression. These will be explored through the social information processing model of aggression.

Topic 2: Analysing how cognitive flexibility is influenced by emotions

Research Aim: This research will analyse how emotions influence the cognitive flexibility of individuals.

Topic 3: Tractable cognition: The role of complexity theory in cognitive psychology

Research Aim: This research will discuss tractable cognition. The study will discuss the role of complexity theory in cognitive psychology.

Topic 4: Conflict monitoring across sensory modalities

Research Aim: This research will discuss conflict monitoring during sensory modalities. The study will talk about various conflict monitoring methods.

Topic 5: Familiarity and its effect on facial expression recognition?

Research Aim: This research will discuss the concept of familiarity and its impact on facial expression recognition.

Topic 6: Investigating the relationship between cognitive vulnerability and depression

Research Aim: This research will investigate the relationship between depression and cognitive vulnerability.

Topic 7: Effectiveness of mindfulness training on ratings of perceived stress, mindfulness, and well-being of adolescents enrolled in an international baccalaureate diploma program

Research Aim: This research will discuss the effectiveness of mindfulness training on ratings of well-being and perceived stress in adolescents. The participants of this research will be international baccalaureate diploma students.

Topic 8: Assessing the development of implicit intergroup cognition in relation to in-groups and out-groups: social learning or pre-specified?

Research Aim: This research will assess the development of implicit intergroup cognition with respect to out-groups and in-groups. The study will conclude whether this development classifies as social learning or is pre-specified.

Topic 9: Assessing the relationship between impaired social cognition, emotion, and anxiety disorders.

Research Aim: This research will discuss the relationship between emotion, anxiety disorders, and impaired social cognition.

Topic 10: Investigating the relationship between episodic memory and emotional memory

Research Aim: This research will investigate the relationship between emotional memory and episodic memory and the underlying causes.

Also Read : Project Management Dissertation Topics

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Social Psychology Dissertation Topics

This branch of psychology has gained tremendous importance in the world of academia in recent times. Essentially, it deals with social interactions, including their influence on the individuals and their origin.

According to Baron, Byrne, and Sulls (1989), “the scientific field seeks to understand the nature and causes of individual behaviour in social situations.”

Therefore, it would not be wrong to say that social psychology primarily investigates how human behaviour can influence other people and the surrounding social environment. Some relevant social psychology dissertation topics are listed below:

Topic 1: Cognitive, affective, and social psychological correlates of psychopathic personality traits in offenders and non-offenders

Research Aim: This research will address cognitive, affective, and social-psychological correlations of psychopathic personality traits in offenders and non-offenders.

Topic 2: A social-psychological exploration of word-of-mouth traveller information in the digital age

Research Aim: This research will explore the word of mouth exchange of traveller information in today’s age with a social-psychological perspective.

Topic 3: Investigating the concept of contemporary social and cultural psychology

Research Aim: This research will investigate the concept of contemporary social and cultural psychology.

Topic 4: Methods for social psychological research: fundamental qualitative and fundamental quantitative methods.

Research Aim: This will be an interesting study. The research will explore two major social psychological research methods; the fundamental qualitative method and the fundamental quantitative method.

Topic 5: The impact of gender mistakes on various individual attitudes and behaviours that contribute to gender inequality

Research Aim: This research will explore the impact of gender issues on different individual attitudes and behaviours. Moreover, the study will assess their impact and contribution to increasing gender inequality.

Topic 6: Personality, passion, self-esteem and psychological well-being among junior elite athletes in the UK

Research Aim: This research will study the psychological well-being of junior athletes in the UK. This includes assessing their personality, passion, and self-esteem.

Topic 7: Mad, bad, or dangerous? Assessing changing social attitudes to mental illness through a study of magazine and TV advertising.

Research Aim: This research will assess the changing social attitudes to mental illness by studying TV and magazine advertising. The study will focus on the impact of these advertisements on the mental health of the audience.

Topic 8: Use of images of women in corporate website branding – The role of gender, marketing, and internet presence

Research Aim: This research will assess the use of women’s images in website branding. The study will evaluate and analyse the role of gender, marketing, and internet presence.

Topic 9: How the use of music can help to reduce crime rate – A quantitative study of underground tube stations in London

Research Aim: The study will focus on an ignored socio-psychological aspect i.e. music. The research will assess how music helps to reduce the crime rate. A quantitative study covering underground tube stations will be conducted.

Topic 10: The enduring legacy of cognitive dissonance

Research Aim: This research will talk about the history of cognitive dissonance. It will also discuss its enduring legacy.

Also Read: Sociology Dissertation Topics

Abnormal Psychology Dissertation Topics

The abnormal patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviour that may lead to mental disorders are studied under the abnormal psychology branch of psychology. But what is an abnormality, and who decides what abnormal behaviour is? Historically, societies have been quick to observe and tag individuals as abnormal when they encounter situations that they cannot understand.

Abnormal psychologists are responsible for identifying the human characteristics that deviate from the norm. This branch of psychology can interest students who wish to explore unusual human behaviour and unusual conditions. The following topics on abnormal psychology can help to ease the dissertation topic selection process for your thesis project:

Topic 1: Assessing and Investigating the concepts of abnormality and mental health

Research Aim: This research will discuss the basics of abnormality and mental health. The literature review will cover the various mental health conditions and what leads them to these issues.

Topic 2: A neuropsychological investigation of frontal brain asymmetry in depression with comorbid anxiety

Research Aim: This research will investigate a neuropsychological issue, i.e., frontal brain asymmetry in depression with comorbid anxiety.

Topic 3: What is the relationship between children’s home routines and treatment for ADHD? A study of the literature

Research Aim: This research will talk about a common yet ignored issue, ADHD. The study will explore the relationship between children’s home routines and treatment procedures.

Topic 4: Investigating the relationship between depression and diet – A qualitative study of how the Mediterranean diet can help to lower depression levels

Research Aim: This research will investigate an interesting relationship – between depression and diet. The study will also explore how the Mediterranean diet can help reduce levels of depression.

Topic 5: Promoting mental health and psychological wellbeing in children: A socio-cultural activity theory analysis of professional contributions and learning in a multidisciplinary team

Research Aim: This research will aim to promote mental health and psychological well-being in children. The study will be based on a socio-cultural activity theory analysis of professional contributions and learning in a multidisciplinary team.

Topic 6: A critical inquiry into the views of professionals working with families, parents, and children.

Research Aim: This research will help conduct a critical inquiry into the views of professionals working with parents, families, and children.

Topic 7: Exploring ways of managing stress and coping with poor mental health

Research Aim: This research will help to explore stress and coping issues amongst individuals with poor mental health.

Topic 8: The role of positive irrational beliefs in mental health & wellbeing

Research Aim: This research will talk about the positive role of irrational beliefs associated with mental health and wellbeing.

Topic 9: To understand and establish the relationship between social media websites and self-harm in adolescent females

Research Aim: This research will aim to understand and establish the relationship between social media websites and self-harm in adolescent females.

Topic 10: A biographical narrative study exploring mental ill-health through the life course

Research Aim: This will be a biographical narrative study that will explore the mental illness issues that may cause difficulties in the course of life.

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Developmental and Educational Psychology Dissertation Topics

According to Kendra Cherry (2001), “Educational psychology involves the study of how people learn, including topics such as student outcomes, the instructional process, individual differences in learning, gifted learners and learning disabilities.” This branch of psychology considers not only the learning process but also the social and emotional aspects of development.

Developmental and educational psychologists are responsible for designing professional development programmes, evaluating programmes and interventions, designing training programmes, consulting with groups and individuals, counselling, designing effective treatment programmes, assessing developmental learning and behavioural problems among individuals, diagnosing disabilities and disorders, and identifying and clarifying problems.

Here’s a list of developmental and educational psychology dissertation topics for you to choose from:

Topic 1: Investigating parents’ concerns with a child’s development: A Case Study

Research Aim: This research will investigate the concerns of parents related to child development. A specific case will be examined in this research.

Topic 2: To examine the parent-child relationship issues

Research Aim: This research will explore the issues related to the parent-child bond. Solutions will also be provided as to how these should be tackled.

Topic 3: Managing a child’s difficult temperament or behaviour

Research Aim: This research will help parents understand how they can manage a child who has a difficult temperament.

Topic 4: How educational psychologists can assist a child with disabilities

Research Aim: This research will explore how educational psychologists help in assisting disabled children.

Topic 5: Exploring the causes of sibling rivalries in the family: Studying How These can Be Tackled.

Research Aim: This research will explore the causes behind sibling rivalries in families and will also suggest how these can be controlled.

Topic 6: Problems parents, teachers, and children may face in the transition from early childhood to school years

Research Aim: This study will explore issues and problems parents, teachers, and children face in the transition from early childhood to school years.

Topic 7: Exploring the impact of consultation on educational psychology service users, including pupils, teachers, and parents

Research Aim: This research will explore the impacts of consultation on educational psychology services which include pupils, teachers, and parents.

Topic 8: The development of the theory of mind in deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing preschool children

Research Aim: This research will talk about the developmental theory of mind in deaf people, hard of hearing, and hearing of preschool children.

Topic 9: Cultural differences and perceptions of autism among school psychologists

Research Aim: This research will talk about the cultural differences and perceptions of autism amongst school psychologists.

Topic 10: High school special education teachers’ use of positive behaviour: Effects of a behaviour prompting routine on specific praise rates

Research Aim: This research will discuss the use of positive behaviour by high school special education teachers. Furthermore, the dissertation will also study the impact of behaviour that prompts a routine for specific praise rates.

Important Notes:

As a psychology student looking to get good grades, it is essential to develop new ideas and experiment with existing psychology theories – i.e., to add value and interest to your research topic.

Psychology is vast and interrelated with so many other academic disciplines. That is why it is imperative to create a psychology dissertation topic that is particular, sound, and actually solves a practical problem that may be rampant in the field.

We can’t stress how important it is to develop a logical research topic based on your entire research. There are several significant downfalls to getting your topic wrong; your supervisor may not be interested in working on it, the topic has no academic creditability, the research may not make logical sense, and there is a possibility that the study is not viable.

This impacts your time and efforts in writing your dissertation as you may end up in the cycle of rejection at the initial stage of the dissertation. That is why we recommend reviewing existing research to develop a topic, taking advice from your supervisor, and even asking for help in this particular stage of your dissertation.

Keeping our advice in mind while developing a research topic will allow you to pick one of the best psychology dissertation topics that fulfil your requirement of writing a research paper and adds to the body of knowledge.

Therefore, it is recommended that when finalising your dissertation topic, you read recently published literature to identify gaps in the research that you may help fill.

Remember- dissertation topics need to be unique, solve an identified problem, be logical, and be practically implemented. Please look at some of our sample psychology dissertation topics to get an idea for your own dissertation.

How to Structure Your Psychology Dissertation

A well-structured dissertation can help students to achieve a high overall academic grade.

A Title Page
Acknowledgements
Declaration
Abstract: A summary of the research completed
Table of Contents
Introduction : This chapter includes the project rationale, research background, key research aims and objectives, and the research problems. An outline of the structure of a dissertation can also be added to this chapter.
Literature Review : This chapter presents relevant theories and frameworks by analyzing published and unpublished literature on the chosen research topic to address research questions . The purpose is to highlight and discuss the selected research area’s relative weaknesses and strengths while identifying any research gaps. Break down the topic and key terms that can positively impact your dissertation and your tutor.
Methodology : The data collection and analysis methods and techniques employed by the researcher are presented in the Methodology chapter, which usually includes research design , research philosophy, research limitations, code of conduct, ethical consideration, data collection methods, and data analysis strategy .
Findings and Analysis : Findings of the research are analysed in detail under the Findings and Analysis chapter. All key findings/results are outlined in this chapter without interpreting the data or drawing any conclusions. It can be useful to include graphs, charts, and tables in this chapter to identify meaningful trends and relationships.
Discussion and Conclusion : The researcher presents his interpretation of the results in this chapter and states whether the research hypothesis has been verified or not. An essential aspect of this section is establishing the link between the results and evidence from the literature. Recommendations with regard to the implications of the findings and directions for the future may also be provided. Finally, a summary of the overall research, along with final judgments, opinions, and comments, must be included in the form of suggestions for improvement.
References : Make sure to complete this following your University’s requirements
Bibliography
Appendices : Any additional information, diagrams, and graphs used to complete the dissertation but not part of the dissertation should be included in the Appendices chapter. Essentially, the purpose is to expand the information/data.

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How to find psychology dissertation topics.

To discover Psychology dissertation topics:

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128+ Interesting and Relevant Abnormal Psychology Research Paper Topics

Oct 12, 2023 | 0 comments

Oct 12, 2023 | Topics | 0 comments

Abnormal psychology is an essential field that aims to understand and treat psychological disorders. Numerous research paper topics are available for exploration in the study of abnormal psychology. These topics cover various subjects, including the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of various psychological disorders. Researchers and students in online graduate programs in this field can also investigate topics related to the cultural, social, and environmental factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of abnormal behavior. This article will explore some of the most intriguing and relevant abnormal psychology research paper topics that students and professionals can consider when conducting research in this field.

Interesting Abnormal Psychology Research Paper Topics

Effects of childhood trauma on the development of borderline personality disorder
Cultural differences in the experience and expression of depression
Genetic and environmental factors contributing to the development of schizophrenia
The impact of technology on social anxiety disorder
The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder
Substance abuse and its relationship with mood disorders
The role of parenting styles in the development of conduct disorder
Psychological interventions for managing chronic pain in individuals with somatic symptom disorder

Good Psychology Research Paper Topics for College

The impact of childhood education on future academic success
Effects of mindfulness meditation on reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression
The relationship between sleep patterns and cognitive performance
The effectiveness of play therapy in treating children with behavioral disorders
The effects of social media on body image and self-esteem in adolescents
Factors influencing resilience in individuals with a history of trauma
Investigating the placebo effect in psychological treatments
The role of personality traits in predicting job satisfaction and performance.

Developmental Psychology Research Topics

The effects of early childhood experiences on social development in later life
How parenting styles affect adolescent risk-taking behaviors
The role of nature versus nurture in personality development
The impact of bilingualism on cognitive development in children
The influence of attachment styles on romantic relationships in adulthood
The effects of technology use on language and cognitive development in children
Investigating the relationship between early childhood nutrition and cognitive development
Gender identity development in adolescence and its long-term effects on mental health.

Cognitive Psychology Research Topics

The impact of sleep on cognitive functioning and decision-making
The role of attentional control in emotion regulation
Investigating the effects of aging on memory and cognitive processing
Cognitive mechanisms underlying creativity and problem-solving
Cognitive biases in decision-making and their effects on behavior
The relationship between language and thought
The neural basis of consciousness and awareness
The effects of mindfulness training on cognitive and emotional well-being.

Social Psychology Research Topics

The effects of social comparison on self-esteem and body image
How social support influences coping strategies and resilience
The role of group identity in intergroup conflict and prejudice
Investigating the effects of social norms on behavior and attitudes
The impact of social media on social identity and relationships
The effects of culture and socialization on personality and behavior
Investigating the relationship between social influence and conformity
The role of empathy and perspective-taking in prosocial behavior and helping.

Experimental Psychology Research Topics

Investigating the effects of priming on memory and perception
The impact of music on cognitive processing and emotional regulation
The effects of meditation and mindfulness on attention and well-being
The role of sleep in memory consolidation and learning
Investigating the relationship between mood and decision-making
The effects of cognitive load on decision-making and risk-taking behavior
Investigating the neural mechanisms underlying perception and attention
The effects of sensory deprivation on perception, cognition, and emotion.

Sports Psychology Research Topics

Investigating the psychological factors that influence athletic performance
Examining the impact of goal-setting on sports performance
The effects of self-talk and mental imagery on sports performance
Investigating the role of motivation in sports performance and exercise adherence
The impact of anxiety and stress on sports performance
Examining the relationship between team cohesion and sports performance
Investigating the effects of sports-related injuries on psychological well-being and recovery
The role of coaching and feedback in improving sports performance.

Forensic Psychology Research Paper Topics

The reliability and validity of eyewitness testimony in criminal trials
Investigating the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs for convicted criminals
The impact of trauma on criminal behavior and rehabilitation
Examining the role of forensic psychologists in criminal investigations and trials
Investigating the Accuracy and reliability of criminal Profiling
The ethical considerations in forensic psychology, including the use of deception and the boundaries of confidentiality
The impact of mental health disorders on criminal behavior and the criminal justice system
Examining the effectiveness of restorative justice practices in reducing recidivism rates.

Psychology Topics for Your Research Paper

The impact of social media on mental health
The psychology of addiction and its treatment
The effects of childhood trauma on adult mental health
The role of mindfulness in managing anxiety and depression
The influence of personality on career success and satisfaction
The psychology of motivation and goal-setting
The relationship between sleep and mental health
The effects of exercise on mental health and well-being

Best Abnormal Psychology Research Topics

The effects of childhood trauma on the development of personality disorders
The relationship between addiction and mental health disorders
The impact of social media on body dysmorphic disorder
The efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder
The role of genetics in the development of schizophrenia
The impact of childhood abuse on the development of dissociative identity disorder
The relationship between anxiety disorders and sleep disturbances
The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in the treatment of depression

Child Psychology: Topic Ideas for Your Essay

The impact of divorce on children’s mental health: A comparative study
The effect of parenting styles on child development
The influence of early childhood education on cognitive development
Child abuse and its long-term consequences on mental health
The relationship between bullying and self-esteem in children
The impact of social media on children’s mental health
The role of attachment theory in child development
The effect of video games on children’s behavior and cognitive skills

Health Psychology Research Questions

How does stress affect physical health?
What is the role of social support in coping with chronic illness?
How do cultural beliefs and attitudes impact health behaviors?
What are effective interventions for promoting healthy behaviors in adolescents?
How does personality influence health outcomes?
How do environmental factors impact mental health?
How does chronic illness impact mental health and quality of life?
How can technology be used to improve health behaviors and outcomes?

Educational Psychology Research Topics for College

The impact of technology on learning and educational psychology.
Motivation and its effects on academic performance in different age groups.
The role of teachers in promoting positive learning outcomes in students.
The impact of different teaching strategies on student engagement and motivation.
How cultural and social factors influence learning and educational psychology.
The impact of mental health on academic performance and effective interventions.
The influence of parental involvement on student success and academic achievement.
The effects of different classroom environments on learning and educational psychology.

Psychiatry Case Studies: Researchable Topics

The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating depression in elderly patients.
A case study of a patient with bipolar disorder and comorbid substance abuse disorder.
The use of psychodynamic therapy in the treatment of anxiety disorders.
A case study of a patient with borderline personality disorder and its treatment with dialectical behavior therapy.
The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in the treatment of PTSD.
A case study of a patient with schizophrenia and the use of antipsychotic medication.
The role of family therapy in the treatment of eating disorders.
A case study of a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder and its treatment with exposure and response prevention therapy.

Good Essay Writing Topics in Behavioral Psychology

The impact of stress on behavior and coping mechanisms.
The role of social learning in shaping behavior.
The relationship between personality traits and behavior.
The effects of the cognitive dissonance on behavior.
The psychological factors behind addiction and substance abuse.
The influence of culture on behavior and perception.
The impact of media and technology on behavior and mental health.
The role of emotions in decision-making and behavior.

Mental Disorders Research Topics for College Students

The relationship between childhood trauma and the development of borderline personality disorder.
The effects of social media on depression and anxiety in young adults.
The link between genetics and the risk for developing schizophrenia.
The impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of healthcare workers.
The prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in military veterans.
The role of mindfulness meditation in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function and mental health.
The efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder.

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What are the topics in abnormal psychology?

Topics in abnormal psychology focus on studying abnormal behavior, thought processes, and emotions. These topics include the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of various psychological disorders, such as anxiety, mood, personality, and psychotic disorders.

What are some interesting abnormal psychology questions?

Some interesting abnormal psychology questions include: What are the environmental and genetic factors that contribute to the development of schizophrenia? How does childhood trauma affect the development of borderline personality disorder? What are the most effective treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder? How do cultural differences influence the experience and expression of depression? How can we differentiate between normal and abnormal behavior?

How do you select a topic for a research paper in psychology?

To select a topic for a research paper in psychology, start by identifying your area of interest within the field. Consider the latest research and trends in psychology and choose a relevant and interesting topic. Consult with your professor or academic advisor for guidance and suggestions, and narrow down your options based on your assignment’s scope, research goals, and available resources.

What are the 5 categories of abnormal psychology?

The five categories of abnormal psychology are (1) Anxiety Disorders, which include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Social Anxiety Disorder; (2) Mood Disorders, which include Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder; (3) Personality Disorders, which include Borderline Personality Disorder and Narcissistic Personality Disorder; (4) Psychotic Disorders, which include Schizophrenia and Delusional Disorder; and (5) Dissociative Disorders, which include Dissociative Identity Disorder and Depersonalization Disorder.

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Psychology Dissertation Topics: 30+ Examples You Can Explore

by Antony W

February 19, 2022

Psychology can be an interesting area to explore in your dissertation assignment provided you choose the right topic. That’s why in this guide, we give you a list of 30+ psychology dissertation topics from which you can pick one interesting topic to investigate.

There are many areas to explore as a psychology student, including personality, social, biological, cognitive, behavioral, industrial, psychosocial, and personality psychology. So it should be easy to find an interesting topic that you can investigate provided it falls within the scope of the project.

Our guide to choosing topics for your dissertation remains unchanged. That means the topic you choose to investigate has a gap in existing literature that your research can fill. With that said, let’s look at some of the psychology dissertation topics that you can explore right now.

Psychology Dissertation Topics: 30+ Examples

The following is a list of 30+ psychology dissertation topics. You can use them as inspiration to help you come up with a unique topic of your own. Or you can pick one topic idea from the list, improve it, talk to your supervisor about the topic, and then begin your investigation.

Developmental Psychology Dissertation Topics

Development psychology explores how behaviors change from time to time based on motor skills, language, and intelligence.

Researchers develop a number of theories and models to explain how these changes take place, making this an interesting area to explore. Some of the topics that may be interesting to explore under this category of study include:

Explaining cognitive development change: one sort of learning mechanism or several learning paradigms for various problems
The extent to which knowing neuro development mechanisms can provide insight into how early cognition happens.
Conversational comprehension as a domain-wide enhancement in processing speed and working-memory capacity in cognitive effort.
The acquisition of culture and biological growth is critical for the development of a kid.
Are children with dyscalculia’s talents unrelated to numeracy affected by the disorder, or are they largely independent?
How the concept of plasticity in child development may account for a kid’s capacity to alter in response to both positive and bad life experiences.

Abnormal Psychology Dissertation Topics

This area of study focuses on analyzing abnormal behavior with an effort to establish a positive change.

Ideally, this area of study suits students interested in studying psychological traits that go against what we consider to be normal and goes further into exploring uncommon conditions.

Some topics that may be worth exploring in this area of study are as follows:

Subtypes of drug dependency are linked to dissociable networks of disturbance in the limbic brain.
The efficacy of the DSM-V as a tool for categorizing aberrant psychiatric symptoms is being questioned.
How do the cognitive processes of people with schizophrenia vary from those of those with conventional cognitive processes?
What distinguishes Intellectual Development Disorders (IDD) from Autism Spectrum Disorders?
The relevance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies in evaluating neurobiological ideas that schizophrenia is caused by aberrant fronto-temporal lobe connections.
Schizophrenia is studied as a multi-dimensional condition.
Is it possible that the fact that some autistics have isolated skills might assist explain the syndrome’s cause?
A malfunctioning amygdale and ventromedial prefrontal cortex have a role in psychopathology.

Evolutionary Psychology Dissertation Topics

In evolutionary psychology, the focus is on explaining psychological characteristics by applying evolutionary behavior with an effort to derive and explain adaptation and natural selection.

With this respect, researchers hold that humans’ psychological mechanisms are ancestral inheritance, which has played a major role in solving problems throughout human’s history.

Evolutionary psychology is an interesting area of study that lets you dig deeper into human history and explain the impact if evolutionary psychology on the modern society. Some interesting topics to explore here are:

The relative relevance of face symmetry, averageness, and secondary sex features as valid predictors of mate selection.
The application of evolutionary psychology to group behavior helps explain how humans act in organizations, whether that behavior is logical or irrational.
Examining if artificially produced instances of evolutionary game theory may be used to evaluate human behavior in the actual world.
Why individual features and cognitive modules can’t account for the intricacies of human social behavior.
Understanding the evolution of the human brain through human cognitive growth.
Investigating if reciprocal altruism is sufficient to explain altruism in various social circumstances.
What role does evolutionary psychology play in explaining anomalies in human decision-making?

Social Psychology Dissertation Topics

Social psychology is an interesting area of study that focuses on how people in groups interact through influential behavior.

You may study behavioral factors such as social influence, non-verbal communication, and attitudes in controlled situations to investigate how the behavior of individuals influences each other in groups.

Here are some suggestions of dissertation topics that you can explore under this category:

Behavioral game theory: How players learn from and influence others in strategic thinking.
The impact of priming’s automatic effects on complicated behavior in real-life circumstances.
Nature or nurture? The early development of nonverbal communication in infants: nature or nurture?
Assessing the amount and duration of factors affecting automatic priming effects in relation to social behavior.
The social intuitionist paradigm is used to assess the role of reason and emotion in moral judgment.
Demonstrating how cognitive neuroscience may inform social psychology by merging social cognition and understanding of brain networks and systems

Cognitive Psychology Dissertation Topics

If you’re interested in learning how the human brain perceives and represents information, then you should immerse yourself in studying cognitive psychology.

You’ll be studying the processes involved information presentation through computer modelling, neuropsychology, and experimentation to understand the encoding of information in the human brand at both micro and macro levels.

Some of the most interesting dissertation topics to explore in this area include the following:

Is MRI testing an accurate predictor of brain function?
The idea of “grandmother cells” is important for explaining neuronal selectivity to high-level information processing, such as during facial recognition.
Effective cognition entails picking the right information at the right moment and in the proper order.
Changes in brain processing in response to event segmentation: distinguishing between cause and effect in boundary recognition
Bias in visual working memory and attention: a study of the link between working memory and attention.
The connection between poor social cognition, emotion, and anxiety disorders.
The cerebellum’s contribution to higher-order cortical activities.
The dependability, validity, and applicability of cognitive psychology study findings to real-life behavior and cognition.
Evaluating Gibson’s theory of direct perception in comparison to constructivist explanations and more modern cognitive theories.
The concept that the right and left hemispheres of the brain have different processing methods is critical to understanding how the brain works.
The mature human brain’s adaptability is limited.
Is there really a thing as subliminal perception, or is it part of a more complicated phenomenon?

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.

Everything begins with an idea!

Abnormal Psychology Research Paper Topics

Abnormal psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on abnormal behavior and psychopathology. Many students believe that abnormal psychology is very interesting. However, students feel that abnormal psychology research paper topics are extremely difficult to write about. We want to assure students that there are so many abnormal psychology research paper topics that are easy enough for them to write about. We know that many students don’t have enough time to brainstorm for topics, which is why we have listed the best abnormal psychology research paper topics below. All the topics that we listed below will inspire students to study well and become professionals in the future. We strongly believe that students will quickly know what to write about these topics after they carry out their research. Students who use our topics in their education will surely impress their professors and colleagues. By using these topics, students will discover the true essence of a research paper and make the most out of their college years.

Abnormal Psychology
Anxiety Disorders
Antisocial personality disorder
Factors That Lead To sociopaths
investigation self-harm disorder
A psychotherapeutic approach in investing Antisocial Behavior
study of abnormal psychology
Why a patient with schizophrenia is vulnerable to commit suicide
Vincent Van Gogh’s mental disorders
Investigating the causes of alternative reality
Post-traumatic stress disorders
Borderline Personality Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
Supporting pharmacotherapy for bipolar affective disorder
Autism Spectrum disorder among young people
Possible Solutions To Death Anxiety
psychological profile of a typical child abuser
Cognitive disorders in endogenous psychoses
How Eating Disorders Is Related To Psychological Issues
What Causes Difficulty In Learning Among Some Students?
Coping with past trauma
Therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Treatment of postpartum psychoses
Clinical manifestations of postpartum psychoses
The ethics behind the Stanford prison experiment
How the exposure to television effects on the emotional development of children
Fetishes and sexually deviant behavior
Features of psychoses provoked by cannabinoids and smoking mixtures
Features of hypochondriac and senestopathic disorders
How hypochondriac and senestopathic disorders manifests in patients with anorexia nervosa
How Is Internet addiction a psychological issue?
Influence of advertising on people with mental pathology
Features of mental and neurological disorders
The Early Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder
Past life regression therapy
How Math Anxiety Is A Psychological Issue
The interrelation of traumatic experience
Aggressive behavior among convicted men
The Causes Of Mood Disorders
The primary cause of abnormal brain development
Lying and Truthfulness
The Psychological Aspect Of Suicide
Causes Of Personality Disorders
Multiple Personality Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Suicide Among The Elderly
The Major Cause Of Self Mutilation
Solution To Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
The relationship between brain development and abnormal behaviors
Narcissistic personality disorder
Effects Of Negative Parenting On Child Psychology
Parapsychology and paranormal phenomenon
Phobic disorders in a person with schizophrenia
The brain structure of a typical person with senestopathic disorders
How Sexual Perversion Develops
Self-mutilation for coping.
Separation Anxiety Disorder
The connection between self-esteem and self-damaging behavior
Psychopathology
Professional burnout as a particular form of professional destruction
Psychopathological aspects of anorexia nervosa
The cause of persistent hallucinations
Treatment of anorexia nervosa
The Characters Of A Typical Example Of A Person With Schizophrenia
How can music serve as a form of therapy for mental health disorder?
Diagnosis of schizophrenia
Psychological features of adolescents with neurogenic anorexia.
Sleepwalking disorder among young people
Oedipus and Electra complexes
The Diagnosis Of Schizophrenia
How Psychological Issues Lead To Suicide
Self-Mutilation
The context of psychosexual BDSM subculture
The Relationship Between Loneliness And Metal Disorder
Diagnostics of sexual perversion
Gender identity in modern psychoanalysis
Teaching Abnormal Psychology
Teenage Suicide As A Form Of Psychological Disorder
Social Pathology
Workplace psychology of ex-felons
DSM criteria for diagnosis
The psychological impact of online dating and social networks on teenagers
Socio-psychological typology
Does a typical serial killer suffer from a psychological disorder?
The negative effects of xenophobia
Psychological boundary violations in adolescence
The connection between temperament and the way adolescents incline towards deviant behavior
The causes of recurrent depression
The causes of social anxiety disorder
Violations of social intelligence
The Diagnosis Of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
The importance of cognitive behavior counseling
The relationship between character accentuation and aggression among convicts
Social anxiety disorder
How post-traumatic stress disorder develops

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Top and Latest 150+ Psychology Dissertation Topics 2024

Tom Baldwin - Jan 22, 2024

Choosing the right psychology dissertation topics are crucial for successful researches. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore a diverse range of dissertation topics across various fields of psychology. Whether you’re interested in cognitive psychology, clinical psychology, developmental psychology, or any other subfield, you’re sure to find inspiration for your dissertation.

Ready to unlock the treasure chest of potential topics? Here’s a curated selection of over 150 dissertation ideas, categorized for your convenience:

Psychology dissertation topics: cognitive psychology.

Cognitive psychology delves into the intricacies of how we think, remember, learn, perceive, solve problems, and use language. Here are 15 dissertation topics to consider:

The Role of Working Memory in Decision-Making
Cognitive Processes Behind Creativity
Neural Correlates of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
The Impact of Sleep on Cognitive Performance
The Psychology of Learning and Memory in Different Age Groups
Cognitive Biases in Decision-Making
Language Development in Bilingual Children
The Influence of Emotion on Cognitive Processing
Neural Plasticity and Cognitive Rehabilitation
Cognitive Aspects of Human-Computer Interaction
The Relationship Between Music and Cognitive Abilities
Cognitive Aging and Memory Decline
The Role of Executive Functions in Academic Achievement
Neuroimaging Studies of Cognitive Processes
Cognitive Factors in the Perception of Time

Clinical Psychology:

Clinical psychology focuses on diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Treating Depression
The Impact of Early Intervention on Autism Spectrum Disorders
Psychosocial Factors in Chronic Pain Management
Personality Disorders and Criminal Behavior
Integrating Technology in Mental Health Interventions
Cross-Cultural Perspectives on PTSD Treatment
The Role of Attachment in Therapeutic Relationships
Effects of Mindfulness Meditation on Anxiety Disorders
Therapeutic Applications of Virtual Reality in Exposure Therapy
Cultural Sensitivity in Eating Disorder Treatment
Group Therapy for Substance Abuse Recovery
Neurobiological Basis of Schizophrenia and Treatment Approaches
The Influence of Therapist Characteristics on Treatment Outcomes
Telehealth in Mental Health Services
Factors Affecting Adherence to Psychotherapy

Developmental Psychology:

Developmental psychology studies human development across the lifespan. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

Parental Influences on Childhood Attachment Patterns
Effects of Early Childhood Education on Cognitive Development
Identity Development in Adolescence
Parenting Styles and Academic Achievement
The Role of Sibling Relationships in Social Development
Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Adolescence
Developmental Trajectories of Moral Reasoning
Influence of Technology on Social Development in Children
The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Relationships
Gender Identity Development in Children
Attachment Theory and Peer Relationships
Cognitive and Social Development in Late Adulthood
The Influence of Culture on Parent-Child Interactions
Environmental Factors in Early Childhood Development
Developmental Changes in Emotional Regulation

Social Psychology:

Social psychology explores how individuals think, feel, and behave in social contexts. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

Social Media and Body Image Perception
The Psychology of Group Conformity
Stereotype Threat in Academic Settings
Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Prejudice and Discrimination
Impact of Social Support on Mental Health
The Role of Empathy in Prosocial Behavior
Social Influence in Decision-Making
Cultural Variations in the Perception of Happiness
Attitudes and Behaviors in Online Communities
Effects of Social Comparison on Well-Being
The Psychology of Online Dating and Relationship Formation
Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Aggression
Social Identity Theory and its Application in Society
The Impact of Social Media on Interpersonal Relationships
The Psychology of Altruism and Volunteerism

Personality Psychology:

Personality psychology investigates the patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that make individuals unique. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

Longitudinal Study of Personality Development in Adulthood
The Relationship Between Personality and Career Choice
Cultural Influences on Personality Traits
Personality Factors in Resilience and Coping
The Role of Personality in Romantic Relationships
Personality Disorders and Their Impact on Daily Functioning
Influence of Genetics on Personality Traits
Personality and Leadership Styles in Organizational Settings
Cultural Perspectives on the Self and Identity
The Role of Personality in Health Behaviors
Personality Traits and Online Behavior
Development of Personality in Early Childhood
Personality and Decision-Making Styles
Influence of Culture on Narcissism
Personality Factors in Coping with Stress

Abnormal Psychology:

Abnormal psychology studies unusual or unhealthy behavior and mental disorders. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

Cultural Variations in the Perception of Mental Health Stigma
The Role of Childhood Trauma in the Development of Mental Disorders
Neurobiological Factors in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Psychosocial Factors in the Onset of Eating Disorders
Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Anxiety Disorders
The Psychology of Addictive Behaviors
Factors Influencing Treatment Adherence in Mental Health
Abnormal Psychology and Criminal Behavior
Impact of Social Isolation on Mental Health
The Role of Stigma in Help-Seeking Behaviors
Cultural Differences in the Experience of Grief and Loss
Cognitive and Emotional Aspects of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
The Influence of Culture on Somatization Disorders
Abnormal Psychology and Sleep Disorders
Therapeutic Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy in Mental Health

Biopsychology:

Biopsychology explores the biological basis of behavior and mental processes. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

The Impact of Hormones on Mood Regulation
Neuroplasticity and Recovery from Brain Injury
Genetics and the Predisposition of Mental Disorders
The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in Stress Response
Biological Basis of Addiction and Treatment Approaches
Neurotransmitter Imbalances in Mood Disorders
Brain Imaging Studies of Cognitive Processes
The Influence of Genetics on Cognitive Abilities
Psychophysiological Responses to Stress
Hormonal Changes in Perimenopausal Mental Health
Impact of Exercise on Brain Health
Genetic Markers of Resilience to Trauma
Neurobiology of Psychopathy
The Relationship Between Gut Microbiota and Mental Health
Epigenetic Influences on Behavioral Traits

Health Psychology:

Health psychology examines the relationship between psychological factors and physical health. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

The Impact of Stress on Immune Function
Health Beliefs and Preventive Health Behaviors
Cultural Perspectives on Health-Seeking Behaviors
Emotional Influences on Cardiovascular Health
The Role of Mind-Body Interventions in Chronic Illness
Health Psychology and Motivation for Healthy Lifestyle Choices
The Influence of Social Support on Health Outcomes
Cultural Differences in Coping with Chronic Illness
Behavioral Interventions for Smoking Cessation
The Psychology of Sleep and its Impact on Physical Health
Health Promotion in Diverse Populations
Factors Affecting Adherence to Medical Treatments
The Role of Psychological Factors in Weight Management
Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health in the Context of Physical Illness

Organizational Psychology:

Organizational psychology applies psychological principles to the workplace. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

Employee Motivation in the Era of Remote Work
Leadership Styles and Team Dynamics
Organizational Culture and Employee Well-Being
The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
Job Satisfaction and Burnout in High-Stress Environments
Team Building and Communication in Virtual Teams
Psychological Factors in Employee Engagement
Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Organizational Behavior
Human Resource Management and Talent Development
Work-Life Balance and Employee Productivity
The Influence of Organizational Climate on Job Performance
The Psychology of Organizational Change
Employee Resilience and Coping with Workplace Stress
Organizational Psychology and the Future of Work

Qualified Tutors

Forensic Psychology:

Forensic psychology uses psychological knowledge in legal settings. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

Psychological Profiling and Criminal Investigations
The Role of Eyewitness Testimony in Legal Proceedings
The Psychology of False Confessions
Evaluating Competency to Stand Trial
Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Juvenile Delinquency
Forensic Psychology and Risk Assessment
The Use of Technology in Forensic Mental Health Assessments
The Influence of Media on Perceptions of Criminal Behavior
Psychological Factors in Eyewitness Identification Accuracy
Therapeutic Approaches for Offender Rehabilitation
The Impact of Pretrial Publicity on Jury Decision-Making
Forensic Psychology and the Insanity Defense
The Role of Psychopathy in Criminal Behavior
Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Criminal Profiling
Ethical Considerations in Forensic Psychology Practice

Charting Your Course – How to Choose a Winning Dissertation Topic

Navigating the vast landscape of psychology can be exhilarating, but without a compass, you might end up lost in the undergrowth of obscure theories and irrelevant data. Here’s how to pick your perfect topic:

Choose Thorough Your line of Expertise

What sparks your curiosity in the world of psychology? Is it the intricate dance of memory, the complex tapestry of social interactions, or the deep well of human emotions?

Choose a topic that genuinely excites you, because passion fuels the long hours of research and analysis.

Align with Your Strengths:

Play to your natural talents . Are you a meticulous data analyst or a charismatic interviewer?

Find a topic that allows you to leverage your skills and make the most of your strengths.

Consider Feasibility:

Don’t set your sights on Mars when you have limited access to a telescope. Pick a topic with accessible data, manageable research methods, and realistic timelines.

Remember, quality trumps quantity, so a focused, achievable study is always better than a sprawling epic doomed to remain unfinished.

Consult Your Supervisor:

Your academic advisor is your Yoda in this journey. Discuss your interests, skills, and potential topics to receive valuable guidance and avoid venturing into dissertation dead ends.

Setting Blocks for Your Dissertation – What Should Be Included?

Now that you have your topic, it’s time to lay the foundation for your dissertation. Think of it as building a magnificent fortress of knowledge:

Your Research Question(s):

This is the driving force of your study. Craft clear, concise questions that are specific, feasible, and relevant to your chosen topic.

Literature Review:

Immerse yourself in existing research, building a strong foundation of knowledge on your topic. Identify any gaps, unanswered questions, or potential contradictions that your study can address.

Methodology:

Choose the right tools for the job! Will you conduct experiments, surveys, or interviews? Ensure your methods are rigorous, ethical, and aligned with your research questions.

The Tower of Analysis:

Data Analysis is where your findings take shape. Utilize appropriate statistical tools to interpret your data and draw meaningful conclusions.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Tie everything together! Discuss your findings in the context of existing research, highlight the implications of your study, and propose future avenues for exploration.

Can I customize these dissertation topics to suit my specific interests?

Absolutely! These topics serve as a starting point. Feel free to modify them based on your unique interests, ensuring a personalized and engaging research journey.

Is it essential to consult with my academic advisor before finalizing my dissertation topic?

Yes, your academic advisor plays a crucial role. Discussing your interests, skills, and potential topics with them provides valuable guidance and helps avoid potential pitfalls.

How do I ensure the feasibility of my chosen dissertation topic?

Consider the availability of accessible data, manageable research methods, and realistic timelines. Opt for a focused study that you can realistically complete with high quality.

What role does my dissertation play in the field of psychology?

Your dissertation is not just a document; it’s your intellectual legacy. It contributes to the body of knowledge in psychology, showcasing your dedication to advancing the field and leaving a lasting impact.

Your dissertation is more than just a paper; it represents your intellectual footprint in a rapidly changing field. Choosing your dissertation topic is more than just picking a path; it is the foundation of your intellectual legacy in psychology.

Whether you’re fascinated by cognitive challenges, untangling mental health mysteries, or deciphering organizational complexities, this rich trove of topics opens the door to transformative exploration.

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Presentation Master's thesis - Juliët Appel - clinical developmental psychology

Roeterseilandcampus - Building G, Street: Nieuwe Achtergracht 129-B Room: GS.04

Samenvatting This study explored the effect of audio-learning on academic performance among first-year university students, focusing on the mediating role of motivation and the moderating role of ADHD. The sample consisted of 207 participants from the Brain & Cognition course at the University of Amsterdam. The study found no direct relationship between audio-learning and academic performance, and motivation did not mediate this relationship. However, audio-learning did have a direct effect on motivation. Additionally, ADHD did not moderate the effect of audio-learning on motivation. However, exploratory analyses revealed that reading effort significantly mediated the effect of audio-learning on academic performance. These findings suggest that while audio-learning may not directly improve academic performance, it can promote engagement behaviors, such as increased reading effort, which are essential for academic performance. The results highlight the potential of audio-learning as a supplementary educational tool and the need for further research to optimize its implementation and effectiveness across diverse educational contexts and student populations.

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113 Abnormal Psychology Topics & Essay Examples
Abnormal Psychology: Fetishism, Transvestic Fetishism, Sadomasochism, Voyeurism, Exhibitionism, and Pedophilia. The desires of individuals with this disorder are to gain sexual arousal through dressing in clothes of the opposite sex or cross-dressing. Comparison of Normal and Abnormal Psychology.
119 Abnormal Psychology Essay Topic Ideas & Examples
If you are studying abnormal psychology or have an interest in the subject, you may need to write essays on various topics related to this field. To help you get started, here are 119 abnormal psychology essay topic ideas and examples. The impact of childhood trauma on the development of mental disorders. The role of genetics in the development ...
50+ Research Topics for Psychology Papers
Topics of Psychology Research Related to Human Cognition. Some of the possible topics you might explore in this area include thinking, language, intelligence, and decision-making. Other ideas might include: Dreams. False memories. Attention. Perception.
89 Psychopathology Essay Topic Ideas & Examples
The main task of the writing is to show a different perspective on development and a new perspective on the study of the connection between antisocial disorder and psychopathy. Besides, their condition and performance at work may be significantly improved in case of a proper help from the company's leadership.
60+ Psychology Research Topics 2024+
When choosing a good psychology research topic, it is important to consider the practicalities of conducting your research. For example, you need to make sure that you will be able to access the necessary data or participants for your study. 6. Make sure your chosen topic is ethical. It is important to choose a topic that is ethical and ...
Abnormal Psychology Essays: Examples, Topics, & Outlines
PAGES 2 WORDS 580. Psychology Definitions. Abnormal Psychology - the study of mental and emotional disorders or maladaptive behaviors, or of mental phenomena such as dreams, hypnosis, and altered states or levels of consciousness. Social norms - Group-held beliefs about how members should behave in a given context.
PSYC 250 Abnormal Psychology at Lansing Community College: All Topics
Topic 1: Abnormal Psychology - Past and Present; Topic 2: Assessment Diagnosis and Treatment; Topic 3: Stress Related Disorders; Topic 4: Anxiety Related Disorders; Topic 5: Mood Disorders and Suicide; Topic 6: Dissociative, Somatoform Disorders and Psychological Factors Affecting Physical Health; Topic 7: Eating and Sleep Disorders
100 Best Psychology Topic Ideas for Research
100 Psychology Thesis Topics for 2023. Students know the importance of developing great psychology dissertation topics for a graduate assignment. However, many don't have the time to brainstorm ideas that meet the requirements their professors expect. We've done a lot of the heavy lifting and have put together a list of 100 psychology ...
Abnormal Psychology
Abstract. This chapter offers recommendations, evidence-based when possible, on teaching abnormal psychology in an effective and engaging manner. In the first section, we address issues related to the content of an Abnormal Psychology course. We outline the traditional content areas, as well as current topics that are often underemphasized ...
Psychology Dissertation Topics and Titles
Psychology Dissertation Topics in Social Sciences. Topic 1: Kids and their relatives with cancer: psychological challenges. Topic 2: Hematopoietic device reaction in ophthalmology patient's radiation therapy. Topic 3: Psychological effects of cyberbullying Vs. physical bullying: A counter study.
Dissertation Topics in Psychology
Developmental Psychology Dissertation Topics. Lifespan development topics you can use for your dissertation include: Attachment and the parent/child relationship. Cognitive development and the ...
Abnormal Psychology Thesis Topics
Abnormal Psychology Thesis Topics - Free download as PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free. Scribd is the world's largest social reading and publishing site.
PDF Unit 8 Contemporary Perspectives on Abnormal Psychology
purview of abnormal psychology is reflected in the range of topics that received empirical attention and have been published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Abnormal Psychology. The journal is supported by the American Psychological Association. Research questions investigated by abnormal psychologists include the following. Are impulsive ...
Abnormal Psychology PSY 470 Research Paper Outline
PSY-470 Topic 4 DQ 1. Abnormal Psychology. Assignments. 100% (5) 6. Case Study-PSY-470 Criminal Law -Lexy C. ... PSY-470 Abnormal Psychology Research Paper Outline. Topic/Proposed Title: Overcoming Bulimia Nervosa. ... That Serves to Support Your Thesis: The treatment first in line for bulimia nervosa is cognitive-behavioral therapy ...
128+ Abnormal Psychology Research Paper Topics For You
Interesting Abnormal Psychology Research Paper Topics. Effects of childhood trauma on the development of borderline personality disorder. Cultural differences in the experience and expression of depression. Genetic and environmental factors contributing to the development of schizophrenia. The impact of technology on social anxiety disorder.
Psychology Dissertation Topics: 30+ Examples You Can Explore
Abnormal Psychology Dissertation Topics. This area of study focuses on analyzing abnormal behavior with an effort to establish a positive change. Ideally, this area of study suits students interested in studying psychological traits that go against what we consider to be normal and goes further into exploring uncommon conditions.
1980 PDFs
The data collected in this thesis c... Cite. Download full-text. Module 1-2Module 1 Milestone, Abnormal Psychology ... This is a term paper I wrote for my Topics in Abnormal Psychology course at ...
PSY-470 Research Paper Outline
PSY-470 Abnormal Psychology Research Paper Outline. Topic/Proposed Title: How individuals develop acute and post-traumatic stress disorders. Introduction: Experiences one faces everyday will leave a lasting impact on an individual. However, what happens when that lasting impact impairs an individual's ability to live out their daily life?
Outline research paper psy 470
Purpose & Thesis Statement: State your thesis here. This should consist of your main topic (see above) and the three subtopics laid out in the Topic 7 Abnormal Psychology Final Research Paper assignment (see below). The background, impacts and relation to MOAs help one understand and accept the mental disorders like anxiety and OCD.
Abnormal Psychology Research Paper Topics
By using these topics, students will discover the true essence of a research paper and make the most out of their college years. Get Writing Help. Rated 4.8 out of 5. Abnormal Psychology. Anxiety Disorders. Antisocial personality disorder. Factors That Lead To sociopaths. investigation self-harm disorder.
Thesis Statement For Abnormal Psychology
This document discusses the challenges of crafting a thesis statement for research papers in abnormal psychology. It notes that abnormal psychology covers complex topics like mental disorders, requiring a thorough understanding of the field. Students face difficulties sifting through vast research literature and forming a concise yet comprehensive thesis. Achieving the right balance of ...
Latest Psychology Dissertation Topics for 2024
Here are 15 dissertation topics to consider: The Role of Working Memory in Decision-Making. Cognitive Processes Behind Creativity. Neural Correlates of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) The Impact of Sleep on Cognitive Performance. The Psychology of Learning and Memory in Different Age Groups. Cognitive Biases in Decision-Making.
Presentation Master's thesis
Presentation Master's thesis - Frida Schmidt-Didlaukies - Work & Organisational Psychology. Last modified on 03-06-2024 16:50. share. ... PPLE - Politics, Psychology, Law and Economics (bachelor) Preservation and Presentation of the Moving Image (duale master) ... Important topics Toggle item. Go to Toggle item. Information for Toggle item ...
Presentation Master's Thesis
Machine Learning techniques have been incorporated in clinical research to predict, classify, and subgroup psychological disorders, with the goal of improving prediction accuracy. Machine Learning models vary in complexity, ranging from simple linear models to highly complex neural networks. An advantage of simple linear models is that they are ...
Presentation Master's Thesis
Start date. 14-06-2024 02:00. End date. 14-06-2024 03:00. Location. Roeterseilandcampus - Gebouw G, Straat: Nieuwe Achtergracht 129-B, Ruimte: GS.09. Add to calendar. Introduction: University life can induce a lot of stress, which leads to mental health problems for some students. Many interventions that are used to reduce stress and its impact ...
Presentation Master's thesis
End date. 14-06-2024 03:00. Location. Roeterseilandcampus - Building G, Street: Nieuwe Achtergracht 129-B Room: GS.04. Add to calendar. Samenvatting This study explored the effect of audio-learning on academic performance among first-year university students, focusing on the mediating role of motivation and the moderating role of ADHD.

50+ Research Topics for Psychology Papers

Research Topics Within Specific Branches of Psychology

Psychology Research Topics Involving a Disorder or Type of Therapy

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Human Cognition

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Human Development

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Topics of Psychology Research Related to Famous Experiments

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Topics of Psychology Research Based on Your Own Study or Experiment

What This Means For You

89 Psychopathology Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

100 Psychology Thesis Topics for 2023

General Psychology Topics for High School

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34 Abnormal Psychology

Positive psychology.

Diagnosis and the DSM.

International and sociocultural issues.

Teaching knowledge and skills.

Assessment.

Incorporating real-life examples.

Simulation of mental illness.

Evaluation of student academic performance.

Competence.

Issues of informed consent.

Impacting stigma.

Issues related to students’ own experiences.

Classroom management.

Limitations of an undergraduate course.

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Psychology Dissertation Topics

Introduction

Psychology Research Topics

Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Performance Among Adults Working from Home during COVID-19 in the UK

Effects of Bad Incidents on Children’s Intelligence- A Critical Assessment through a Clinical Psychology Lens

Impact of Marriage Satisfaction on Job Performance in High-Stress Jobs- A Case of Individuals Working in Investment Firms in the UK

The Role of Educational-Psychological Counseling in Career Selection among Immigrant Children in the UK

The Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Interventions (MBIs) on Reducing Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression

Investigate the impact of introducing mindfulness programs in school curricula to enhance mental well-being among adolescents.

Exploring the Link Between Mood and Innovation in Entrepreneurship

An Examination of the Interplay Between Depression and Creative Writing: Case Studies in Literature

Investigating the neurobiological basis of ADHD: brain structure, neurotransmitter function, and genetics.

Examine the relationship between ADHD and comorbid mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.

Covid-19 Psychology Research Topics

Topic 2: Mental health and psychological resilience during COVID-19

Topic 3: The mental health of children and families during COVID-19

Topic 4: Mental wellbeing of patients during Coronavirus pandemic

Psychology Dissertation Topics in Social Sciences

Topic 2: Hematopoietic device reaction in ophthalmology patient’s radiation therapy

Topic 3: Psychological effects of cyberbullying Vs. physical bullying: A counter study

Topic 4: Whether or not predictive processing is a theory of perceptual consciousness?

Topic 5: Importance of communication in a relationship

Topic 6: Eating and personality disorders

Topic 7: Analysis of teaching, assessment, and evaluation of students and learning differences

Topic 8: Social and psychological effects of virtual networks

Topic 9: The role of media in provoking aggression

Psychology Dissertation Topics Behavioral Sciences

Topic 2: Assessing the relationship between depression and anxiety from the perspective of student academic performance

Topic 3: How cognitive behaviour therapy helps in dealing with depressed adolescents

Topic 4: Analysing the psychological impact of bullying on children’s personality and development