Psychological rules aren't like the rigid laws of physics. Instead, they describe the principles governing human mental processes and behavior. These principles aren't known a priori like mathematical rules, but are derived from observation, research, and clinical experience. They help explain why people think, feel, and act the way they do. These principles are distinct from legal or professional codes of conduct, though those codes often reflect and incorporate psychological understanding.
Types of "Psychological Rules"
We can categorize these principles in several ways:
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Principles of Human Behavior: These describe common patterns in human action, such as cognitive biases (e.g., confirmation bias), social influences (e.g., conformity), and emotional responses (e.g., fight-or-flight). Understanding these helps predict behavior in various situations.
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Therapeutic Principles: These guide the practice of psychology. For example, principles of client-centered therapy emphasize empathy and unconditional positive regard. The American Psychological Association's Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct provides ethical guidelines for psychologists, reflecting underlying psychological principles.
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Legal and Regulatory Frameworks: Many states have laws and rules governing the practice of psychology (Examples: Texas, New Hampshire, Maine, Alaska, Colorado, Minnesota, Michigan, Oregon). These regulations protect the public and ensure professional standards, often based on established psychological principles. These aren't psychological rules themselves, but they are informed by them.
Examples of Psychological Principles
- Reciprocity: The tendency to return a favor or kindness.
- Cognitive Dissonance: The discomfort felt when holding conflicting beliefs.
- The Bystander Effect: The less likely someone is to help when others are present.
These are just a few examples. The field of psychology is vast, encompassing numerous theories and principles that explain the complexities of human experience. Many of these principles are further codified in professional codes of ethics and legal regulations, ensuring responsible and ethical practice.
