Abnormal psychology studies the patterns of persons who display bizarre or unusual behavior when compared to the general population. Professionals working in this field examine the emotions, habits and thoughts of such individuals and attempt to formulate strategies designed to help them overcome their mental afflictions and, once again, contribute to society. The following are five jobs which utilize the principles of abnormal psychology.
Clinical Social Worker
Clinical Social Workers help treat those with various mental disorders, as well as advocate for such individuals by helping them obtain needed services and offer assistance transitioning back into everyday life. Individuals hoping to enter this profession will first need to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in either Psychology or Social Work, followed by a Master’s Degree. After meeting these educational requirements and, prior to seeking full-time employment, one will need to complete and internship program and obtain a license in the state in which they hope to practice. Though Clinical Social Workers could be employed in settings like hospitals and treatment centers, they may also find employment with various government agencies.
Clinical Psychologist
Clinical Psychologists work closely with their patients and through careful study and observation, help them identify and treat what particular mental, emotional or behavioral affliction they might have. The first step to entering this field requires the completion of a Bachelor’s Degree, typically in Psychology followed by the completion of a Doctoral Degree. Obtaining full-time employment will require the completion of an internship and a residency program. Clinical Psychologists must receive a state license before they can be employed or establish a private practice. Clinical Psychologists often work in facilities like hospitals and health care clinics.
Research Psychologist
A Research Psychologist studies how people tick. They will closely examine why individuals make specific decisions and take certain actions and utilize their findings to formulate treatments and methods for mental and behavioral disorders. Research Psychologists can also find employment as Professors at the collegiate and graduate levels. Entrance into this field will require the completion of a Bachelor’s Degree, usually in Psychology, followed by the earning of either a Master’s or Doctoral Degree. Research Psychologists can apply their trade in various different settings, including government agencies and corporations.
Forensic Psychologist
Forensic Psychologists study the minds of criminals and use their knowledge to assist law enforcement officials in solving crimes, in addition to performing other tasks like helping courts determine if mentally compromised individuals are competent to stand trial. To enter the field of Forensic Psychology, one must first complete a Bachelor’s Degree, typically in either Psychology or Criminal Justice. After completing undergraduate study, a Doctoral Degree, an internship and the obtaining of a state license will be necessary to gain employment. Forensic Psychologists might apply their trade in environments like prisons, courthouses and mental hospitals.
Neuropsychologist
A neuropsychologist studies how brain illnesses impact how those affected function, as well as formulates treatment plans designed to help those with mental disorders better function in society. A future Neuropsychologist will earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Biology or Neuroscience; followed by the completion of a Doctoral Degree, an internship, a residency and post-doctoral work. A Neuropsychologist will often work in a clinical setting such as a hospital or research center.
Jobs employing abnormal psychology principles give those working in them the rewarding opportunity to help people overcome mental illnesses and help make the world safer. However, most of these jobs require a great deal of education and the patience and persistence needed to work with people suffering from mental illnesses.