How to Learn the Theory of Psychology

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By F.R.R. Mallory
eHow Contributing Writer

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Woman thinking.

Psychology is a scientific discipline focused on the study of the mind and mental processes, sometimes called the science of mental life. Psychology explores and applies treatment options for aspects of the mind such as behavior, emotion, motivation, response, unconscious action, dreaming, sleeping, learning, language, perception, memory, mental disorders, emotional disorders, cultural differences, stigma, diversity, attraction, attachment and more. Learning about psychology and the underlying theory it is based on, is a good way to expand understanding of what people and animals do, and why.

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Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Three to four copies of "Introducing Psychology, 2nd Edition" by Nigel Benson Weekly meeting place Snacks or potluck

Learning The Theory Of Psychology

Step 1

"Introducing Psychology, 2nd Edition" generally can be found used for a very low cost. This comprehensive, yet simplified book, does an excellent job of describing the theory of psychology in detail.
Step 2

Enlist three of your friends to read the book at the same time.
Step 3

Arrange weekly potlucks with your friends to discuss individual book chapters. Learning improves based on goal-setting and accountability, as well as through discussions with others where the content of a book can be examined.
Step 4

Contact the author through his website if you encounter any information in his book that you find confusing.
Step 5

Celebrate the completion of the book with a small party with your friends and discuss how the information in the book contributed to your understanding of psychology and of yourself.

Tips & Warnings

Book groups are one of the best ways to learn a subject that might seem challenging at first. By working slowly on chapters and sharing information, more is retained.
Book groups often become indispensable, so you are at risk of reading many more books once you begin.