Psychology Essay Topics

Betty P.

Get Inspired with Over 200 Psychology Essay Topics and Writing Tips

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Published on: May 2, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

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Are you struggling to come up with interesting and unique psychology essay topics? Do you find it challenging to write a compelling psychology essay that stands out from the rest?

Psychology is a fascinating subject. However, selecting a topic that is both engaging and informative can be a daunting task.

But fear not!

This blog provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of psychology essay topics. From general psychology topics to specific and interesting areas of research, we have got you covered. Additionally, we offer tips to help you write a successful essay, from choosing a topic to editing your final draft.

By the end of it, you will be able to write a standout psychology essay that fully showcases your understanding.

Let's dive in!

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Psychology Research Topics For High School Students

Here is a persuasive essay topics list to get you started:

  • The influence of social media on mental health
  • The psychology of dreams and their interpretations
  • Effects of stress on academic performance
  • Does childhood trauma impact mental health in adulthood, and if so, how?
  • How does meditation impact the brain and promote well-being?
  • Why do we make the choices we do, and how can we make better decisions?
  • How does spending time in nature impact mental health and well-being?
  • How does perception affect our interpretation of reality, and can it be changed
  • The power of music on human emotions and behavior
  • The relationship between exercise and mental health

 Psychology Paper Topics For College Students

  • The psychology of addiction and effective treatments.
  • The impact of childhood experiences on adult mental health.
  • The psychology of prejudice and how to overcome biases.
  • The role of emotions in decision-making and behavior.
  • The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function and well-being.
  • Effective leadership traits and development.
  • The psychology of procrastination: Why we do it and how to overcome it.
  • The impact of social support on mental health.
  • The effects of mindfulness on stress and anxiety.
  • The psychology of motivation: What drives our behavior and how to stay motivated.

Research Topics In Psychology For University Students

  • The effects of social media on self-esteem and body image.
  • The impact of childhood trauma on brain development and function.
  • The psychology of happiness: What makes us happy and how can we cultivate it?
  • The role of genetics in mental health disorders and treatment implications.
  • How does social media affect self-esteem and body image?
  • What is the impact of childhood trauma on brain development and function?
  • What makes us happy and how can we cultivate happiness?
  • The psychology of mindfulness: Benefits and applications for well-being.
  • The impact of cultural differences on cognitive processes and behavior.
  • What are the dynamics of attraction, attachment, and relationships in the psychology of love?

Social Psychology Essay Topics

  • How do social roles and expectations affect behavior?
  • What is the role of social identity in intergroup relations?
  • How do attitudes and persuasion shape behavior?
  • What are the psychological factors that influence conformity?
  • What is the impact of social comparison on self-esteem?
  • The influence of culture on social behavior
  • The role of empathy in social interactions
  • The impact of social exclusion on mental health
  • The effects of social comparison on body image
  • The psychology of altruism and helping behavior

Forensic Psychology Essay Topics

  • How can forensic psychology contribute to criminal profiling?
  • What is the impact of psychological factors on criminal behavior?
  • How do juries make decisions in criminal cases, and what role does psychology play?
  • What is the impact of false confessions on the criminal justice system?
  • How can forensic psychologists help prevent and treat juvenile delinquency?
  • The psychology of criminal behavior and decision-making
  • The use of psychological assessment in criminal trials
  • The role of media in shaping public perceptions of crime
  • The impact of trauma on criminal behavior
  • The psychology of witness testimony

Criminal Psychology Essay Topics

  • How do psychological factors contribute to the development of criminal behavior?
  • What is the impact of childhood experiences on criminal behavior?
  • How can criminal psychology contribute to the prevention and treatment of criminal behavior?
  • What is the relationship between mental health and criminal behavior?
  • How can criminal profiling be used to aid criminal investigations?
  • The psychology of white-collar crime
  • The use of forensic psychology in criminal investigations
  • The impact of incarceration on mental health
  • The effectiveness of rehabilitation programs for offenders
  • The psychology of recidivism

Cognitive Psychology Essay Topics

  • How do cognitive processes shape our perceptions and decisions?
  • What are the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive processes such as attention and memory?
  • How do emotions and motivation affect cognitive processing?
  • What is the relationship between language and thought?
  • What is the impact of cognitive biases on decision-making?
  • The role of cognitive development in learning and education
  • The impact of technology on cognitive processing
  • The psychology of creativity and problem-solving
  • The effects of sleep on cognitive function
  • The psychology of expertise and skill acquisition

Developmental Psychology Essay Topics

  • How do genetics and the environment interact to shape development?
  • What are the stages of cognitive and emotional development in childhood and adolescence?
  • What is the impact of parenting styles on child development?
  • How do cultural differences impact child development?
  • What are the effects of early adversity on later development?
  • The psychology of attachment and bonding
  • The impact of technology on child development
  • The effects of divorce and separation on child development
  • The psychology of adolescent identity development
  • The role of play in child development

Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

  • The impact of childhood trauma on the development of dissociative disorders
  • The role of genetics in the development of schizophrenia
  • The link between eating disorders and body image dissatisfaction
  • The impact of addiction on mental health
  • The effectiveness of psychotherapy for treating personality disorders
  • The relationship between anxiety and depression in bipolar disorder
  • The impact of trauma on the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating phobias
  • The impact of culture on the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based therapies for treating anxiety and depression

Child Psychology Essay Topics

  • The impact of attachment styles on child development
  • The role of play therapy in treating childhood trauma
  • The impact of parenting styles on adolescent mental health
  • The role of technology in children's social and emotional development
  • The impact of peer relationships on child development
  • The effectiveness of early intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder
  • The impact of divorce on child development
  • The role of schools in supporting children's mental health
  • The impact of childhood bullying on mental health in adolescence and adulthood
  • The effectiveness of family therapy in treating childhood anxiety and depression

Sports Psychology Essay Topics

  • The role of mental toughness in athletic performance
  • The impact of anxiety on sports performance
  • The relationship between goal setting and athletic success
  • The impact of visualization techniques on sports performance
  • The role of self-talk in athletic performance
  • The impact of team cohesion on athletic performance
  • The relationship between personality traits and sports performance
  • The impact of pre-performance routines on sports performance
  • The role of coaching in supporting athletes' mental health
  • The effectiveness of psychological skills training in improving athletic performance

Argumentative Psychology essay topics

  • Is intelligence innate or acquired?
  • Should psychotherapy be used as a first-line treatment for mental illness?
  • Is the use of medication in treating mental illness over-prescribed?
  • Is social media use linked to increased rates of anxiety and depression?
  • Is addiction a disease or a choice?
  • Should personality disorders be treated differently than other mental illnesses?
  • Is the use of restraints ethical in mental health treatment?
  • Is it ethical to use animals in psychological research?
  • Should parents be held responsible for their children's mental health?
  • Is there a link between childhood trauma and criminal behavior?

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Descriptive Psychology Essay Topics

  • The history and evolution of psychoanalytic theory
  • The role of culture in shaping our understanding of mental illness
  • The impact of attachment theory on contemporary psychology
  • The development of cognitive psychology as a discipline
  • The role of social psychology in understanding human behavior
  • The impact of behaviorism on modern psychology
  • The role of neuroscience in understanding mental illness
  • The development of positive psychology as a field
  • The impact of feminist psychology on contemporary practice
  • The role of evolutionary psychology in understanding human behavior

Biological Psychology Essay Topics

  • The role of genetics in addiction and substance abuse
  • The impact of hormonal changes on mood disorders
  • Neural mechanisms underlying decision making
  • The effect of sleep deprivation on brain function
  • The link between brain development and mental health disorders
  • The role of neurotransmitters in regulating emotions and behavior
  • The impact of stress on the immune system
  • The relationship between diet and brain function
  • The biological basis of schizophrenia
  • The role of epigenetics in mental health disorders

Controversial Psychology Essay Topics

  • The Ethics of using placebos in clinical trials
  • The Validity of repressed memories in Therapy
  • The controversy surrounding conversion therapy
  • The debate over the existence of multiple personality disorder
  • The controversy surrounding the use of medication to treat ADHD
  • The ethics of using animals in psychological research
  • The controversy surrounding the validity of personality tests
  • The debate over the use of cognitive enhancement drugs
  • The controversy surrounding the diagnosis of borderline personality disorder
  • The debate over the use of hypnosis in therapy

Cultural Psychology Essay Topics

  • The impact of cultural values on mental health treatment
  • Cross-cultural differences in emotion regulation
  • The role of cultural norms in shaping attitudes towards mental health disorders
  • The impact of acculturation on mental health
  • The role of cultural values in shaping parenting styles
  • Cross-cultural differences in attachment styles
  • The influence of culture on body image and eating disorders
  • The impact of cultural values on the experience of depression
  • The role of culture in shaping perceptions of happiness
  • The impact of cultural diversity on group dynamics

Good Psychology Essay Topics

  • The importance of social support for mental health
  • The benefits of mindfulness meditation for stress reduction
  • The role of exercise in improving mental health
  • The impact of gratitude on well-being
  • The role of humor in coping with stress
  • The benefits of nature exposure for mental health
  • The impact of social media on mental health and well-being
  • The benefits of expressive writing for emotional processing
  • The role of positive self-talk in building resilience
  • The impact of volunteering on mental health and well-being

Exciting Psychology Essay Topics

  • The psychology of thrill-seeking behavior
  • The impact of virtual reality on behavior and cognition
  • The relationship between music and mood
  • The psychology of conspiracy theories
  • The impact of social comparison on self-esteem
  • The psychology of persuasion and influence
  • The role of culture in shaping perceptions of beauty
  • The psychology of color and its effects on behavior
  • The impact of humor on creativity and problem-solving
  • The psychology of flow and peak performance

Psychology Essay Topics on Dreams

  • Why do we dream? The scientific and psychological explanations.
  • Can we control our dreams? The effectiveness and limitations of lucid dreaming.
  • The interpretation of dreams: Freudian theory vs. modern approaches.
  • The role of dreams in problem-solving and creativity.
  • How dreams impact our mental health and well-being.
  • The use of dream analysis in therapy: Benefits and limitations.
  • Nightmares: Causes, effects, and treatments.
  • The cultural significance of dreams and dream interpretation.
  • Sleep disorders and their impact on dreaming.
  • The ethical considerations of using dream manipulation for personal gain.

Psychology-Related Topics from Other Subjects

  • The intersection of psychology and neuroscience
  • The relationship between psychology and economics
  • The psychology of decision making in politics
  • The psychology of leadership and organizational behavior
  • The impact of technology on social psychology
  • The psychology of marketing and consumer behavior
  • The relationship between psychology and law
  • The psychology of education and learning
  • The impact of environmental factors on behavior
  • The psychology of creativity and innovation

 Psychology Paper Topics for Any Assignment

  • The influence of video games on cognitive development
  • A case study analysis of borderline personality disorder
  • The role of cognitive psychology in treating depression
  • Historical perspectives on the evolution of cognitive psychology
  • Analyzing the impact of social media on mental health
  • An exploration of the psychology behind addiction
  • A comparative analysis of Freudian and Jungian theories of personality
  • Investigating the effects of mindfulness on anxiety disorders
  • The role of positive psychology in promoting well-being
  • A case study on the effects of childhood trauma on adult mental health
  • Examining the link between physical health and mental health
  • An overview of various psychological disorders and their treatment options
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety
  • Analyzing the use of art therapy in treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of culture on mental health and well-being

How To Choose A Psychology Topic?

Choosing a psychology topic can seem daunting, but there are some helpful steps you can take to make the process easier. 

Here are some tips to consider:

Identify Your Interests

Start by considering what topics in psychology interest you the most. Are you fascinated by abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, or social psychology? 

By choosing a topic that you are interested in, you are more likely to be motivated to research and write about it.

Consider The Assignment Requirements

If you are choosing a topic for a specific assignment, make sure to read the instructions and guidelines carefully. Consider the length of the assignment, the required sources, and any other specific instructions that the professor may have provided.

Do Some Preliminary Research

Once you have identified your interests and considered the assignment requirements, start doing some preliminary research. Look for articles, books, and other resources on your topic to get a sense of what has already been written about it and to help refine your focus.

Narrow Down Your Topic

After doing some preliminary research, you may need to narrow down your topic. Try to focus on a specific aspect of the broader topic that you are interested in. This will help you to stay focused and write a more cohesive and effective paper.

By following these steps, you can choose a psychology topic that is interesting, manageable and meets the requirements of your assignment.

 Tips To Write a Compelling Psychology Essay

Writing a good psychology essay requires attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear writing. Here are some tips to help you write a great psychology essay:

  • Understand The Essay Prompt

Make sure you fully understand the prompt before you start writing. Identify the key terms and concepts and make sure you have a clear understanding of what is being asked of you.

  • Conduct Thorough Research

Conduct thorough research using reliable sources such as academic journals, books, and reputable websites. Be sure to take detailed notes and keep track of your sources.

  • Organize Your Thoughts

Organize your thoughts and ideas before you start the writing process. Create an outline or a mind map to help you structure your essay and ensure your ideas flow logically.

  • Use Clear, Concise Language

Use clear, concise language to convey your ideas. Avoid using jargon or technical terms unless necessary, and make sure your sentences are well-structured and easy to understand.

  • Support Your Arguments

Use evidence to support your arguments and claims. This could include citing research studies or other sources to back up your points.

  • Edit and Proofread

Edit and proofread your psychology research paper to eliminate errors and ensure your writing is polished and professional. Check for grammar and spelling mistakes, and make sure your formatting and referencing are consistent and accurate.

By following these tips, you can write a compelling psychology essay that effectively communicates your ideas and arguments.

In conclusion, choosing a psychology essay topic can be a daunting task. But with the right approach, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. 

Consider your interests, current events, and the audience when selecting a topic. Be sure to conduct thorough research and organize your ideas before writing. 

Additionally, keep in mind the tips for writing a compelling essay and crafting a strong thesis statement.

At CollegeEssay.org, we understand that any psychology course can be challenging, especially when you have to write an essay about it.

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Betty P. (Literature)

Betty is a freelance writer and researcher. She has a Masters in literature and enjoys providing writing services to her clients. Betty is an avid reader and loves learning new things. She has provided writing services to clients from all academic levels and related academic fields.

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Essays About Psychology: Top 12 Examples and Prompts

Need a psychology research paper idea? Check out these provoking example essays about psychology to get your writing started.

Psychology is a broad field focusing on the mind and behavior. It’s also concerned with individuals’ consciousness and subconscious.  This branch of science has many subdivisions, such as developmental, social, forensic, and cognitive. Because it’s applicable in various fields, psychology is one of the most popular college courses in the US . 

If you are studying psychology in college, the odds are high that you will need to complete an essay or research paper at some point in your education.  Consider these twelve essay examples and eighteen prompts to get inspired and start writing your essay. 

For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers .

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12 Example Essays About Psychology

1. the epidemic of mental illness: why by marcia angell, 2. is the internet making us crazy what the new research says by tony dukoupil, 3. the dark psychology of social networks by jonathan haidt and tobias rose-stockwell, 4. the benjamin franklin effect by david mcraney, 5. caring for your introvert by jonathan rauch, 6. the stanford prison experiment by dr. saul mcleod, 7. why your brain is not a computer by matthew cobb, 8. introduction to psychology by seema r, 9. meaning and definition of industrial psychology by shreyas kammar, 10. do not let negative feelings destroy our lives by anonymous on papersowl, 11. psychology. health behavior change & reflection coursework by anonymous on ivypanda, 12. fields of psychology by seema r, essay prompts about psychology, 1. what is antisocial personality disorder, and how is it treated, 2. the rise of schizophrenia or other serious mental disorders, 3. the role of media and video games in violent behavior, 4. the main factors that impact problem-solving abilities in child development, 5. can serious physical illnesses cause post-traumatic stress disorder, 6. the impact of parenting styles on human development, 7. what stops panic attacks effectively, 8. what is causing the rise in anorexia among children, 9. do teenagers face anxiety in high school, 10. how does low self-confidence hurt athletes, 11. my favorite branch of psychology, 12. psychological disorders: definitions and treatments, 13. how do religious beliefs affect someone’s behavior, 14. analyzation of a psychology theory or experiment, 15. the different careers in psychology, 16. do family relationships affect a child’s behavioral development, 17. effects of racism , 18. a historical figure in psychology.

“It seems that Americans are in the midst of a raging epidemic of mental illness, at least as judged by the increase in the numbers treated for it. The tally of those who are so disabled by mental disorders that they qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) increased nearly two and a half times between 1987 and 2007—from one in 184 Americans to one in seventy-six. The rise is even more startling for children—a thirty-five-fold increase in the same two decades.”

Angell describes the realities behind mental illness statistics. She then explores why problems like anxiety disorders, depression, and similar issues are rising. Finally, she proposes that they are possibly being diagnosed more frequently than before, more so than becoming more prevalent. You might find our list of books on psychology for beginners helpful.

“The first good, peer-reviewed research is emerging, and the picture is much gloomier than the trumpet blasts of Web utopians have allowed. The current incarnation of the Internet—portable, social, accelerated, and all-pervasive—may be making us not just dumber or lonelier but more depressed and anxious, prone to obsessive-compulsive and attention-deficit disorders, even outright psychotic. Our digitized minds can scan like those of drug addicts, and normal people are breaking down in sad and seemingly new ways.”

In this essay, Dukoupil points out the mental health concerns of constant exposure to social media and other technology. He explores new research into the abnormal psychology disorders this exposure is creating.

“The problem may not be connectivity itself but rather the way social media turns so much communication into a public performance. We often think of communication as a two-way street. Intimacy builds as partners take turns, laugh at each other’s jokes, and make reciprocal disclosures. What happens, though, when grandstands are erected along both sides of that street and then filled with friends, acquaintances, rivals, and strangers, all passing judgment and offering commentary?”

Social media has a dark side, which is what Haidt and Rose-Stockwell explore in this essay. What started as a positive way to build social connections has turned into a public facade that pushes people toward mental health issues. You might also be interested in these essays about sociology .

“The Misconception: You do nice things for the people you like and bad things to the people you hate. The Truth: You grow to like people for whom you do nice things and hate people you harm. Benjamin Franklin knew how to deal with haters.”

In this social psychology essay, McRaney explores how Benjamin Franklin’s people skills created a psychological phenomenon known as the Benjamin Franklin Effect. This theory says that a person who has done someone a favor is more likely to do that person another favor than they would be had they received a favor . McRaney delves into the psychology behind this theory.

“My name is Jonathan, and I am an introvert. Oh, for years I denied it. After all, I have good social skills. I am not morose or misanthropic. Usually. I am far from shy. I love long conversations that explore intimate thoughts or passionate interests. But at last I have self-identified and come out to my friends and colleagues. In doing so, I have found myself liberated from any number of damaging misconceptions and stereotypes. Now I am here to tell you what you need to know in order to respond sensitively and supportively to your own introverted family members, friends, and colleagues.”

Rauch, a self-proclaimed introvert, explores what it means to be one and how people can best care for one. After reading this article, you will be well-equipped for any social interaction involving an introvert.

“The study may also lack population validity as the sample comprised US male students. The study’s findings cannot be applied to female prisons or those from other countries. For example, America is an individualist culture (were people are generally less conforming) and the results may be different in collectivist cultures (such as Asian countries).”

This informative essay talks about the Stanford Prison Experiment and how it impacted the field of psychology as a whole. McLeod also provides some critical evaluation of the study and its findings.

“There are indeed theoretical approaches to brain function, including to the most mysterious thing the human brain can do – produce consciousness. But none of these frameworks are widely accepted, for none has yet passed the decisive test of experimental investigation. It is possible that repeated calls for more theory may be a pious hope. It can be argued that there is no possible single theory of brain function, not even in a worm, because a brain is not a single thing. (Scientists even find it difficult to come up with a precise definition of what a brain is.).”

In this essay, Cobb takes on the ideology that the brain is nothing more than a complex computer. He looks at the current research and draws an opinion on how much more complex the human brain is than simply calling it a computer.

“Psychology is relatively a young science and yet within a brief span it has made tremendous progress. Psychology touches almost every facet of our lives. There is hardly any single aspect of human life where psychology has not made its contribution.”

Unlike most psychology introductions with a direct description and definition, this short essay shows the importance of the subject. Seema R makes this possible by talking about essential industries where psychology makes a unique contribution and how psychologists define behavior. Seema’s findings include behavior is a physical and mental process that helps people adapt to different situations in their environment.

 “It is the study of people at work. It deals with the aptitudes, attitudes, and interests of the people at work… It studies the varied methods of performing manual operations for the better utilisation and the least waste of efforts through human engineering.”

This essay aims to understand the importance of industrial psychology in handling human relations in the workplace. Kammar begins the piece by sharing psychology’s exact meaning and follows it with other definitions from prominent industrial psychology textbook authors. The author then concludes that industrial psychology is research done in a company to create ways to improve industrial workers’ efficiency.

“The World Health Organization has said that depression is a common illness worldwide, with more than 300 million affected… Negative feelings are harmful to our mental health and take away the ability to enjoy our lives.”

The author’s purpose for writing the essay is to let everyone know what and how to deal with negative feelings. In addition, it is to prevent these feelings from worsening and turning into depression. To strengthen the credibility of the essay, the author uses statistics from the World Health Organization and a popular movie related to the topic, “ I Have a Black Dog ” by Will Hutchinson.

“Being mindful of my health habits also enabled me to cultivate self-monitoring techniques and, more importantly, to make health-enhancing behavior. This approach worked because the energy and determination of behavior change came from deep within my heart.”

The essay differs from the examples in this list as it’s from the author’s own experience and how psychology played a role in their journey to becoming a better person.  The author shares their drive to improve and maintain healthy behaviors for a better, more active, happier life. The essay starts with the author sharing the cause and effect of their unhealthy habits, what methods they used, and the struggles they faced along the way. The writer also identifies what helped them the most to achieve a positive change in their behavior.

“Psychology is no longer a subject of academic interest taught in colleges and universities, but its impact has been felt in business, industry, clinics, guidance centers, and education. Psychologists do many things depending on their field of specialization” 

Psychology is a vast field of behavioral study that shows constant growth and development in its subfields. The work and method that the psychologist will use depend on what field they belong to. To help readers better understand the difference between prominent fields of psychology, Seema R writes an informative essay that defines and differentiates each area of specialization of the subject. You might also be interested in our round-up of the best Carl Jung books .

If you are looking for psychology essay topics, here are some prompts for inspiration.

If you are looking for informative essay topic ideas, you could build an exciting essay around defining and exploring treatments for antisocial personality disorder. This disorder, sometimes called sociopathy, causes the individual to ignore the needs and feelings of others and show no remorse for doing wrong. Many serial killers have this disorder, one of the most damaging psychological disorders. Your essay could explore causes and treatments.

Are severe mental disorders, like schizophrenia, on the rise? First, research this topic and then build an essay around it. You will find that rates of this mental disorder are on the rise. After doing the research, determine why this increase might be happening. Then, explore ideas for treatment that might help combat the issue.

Do violent video games and movies cause violent behavior? Do they hurt the development of a child’s psychological well-being enough that the child can commit atrocious crimes? The APA warns that it is a risk factor for aggressive behavior. Answering these questions in your essay could address an important social issue while helping you craft a topical piece, as this type of media is an integral part of modern society.

What factors support children in becoming problem solvers and improve their critical thinking skills? Some research indicates that the school setting is primarily the most impactful. Still, you will also find some research that says parents and familial upbringing play a significant role. After researching, decide what you feel is the most crucial factor. Then, build your paper around that thesis as you prove your choice. You can also provide practical advice to help teachers and parents better teach problem-solving to the children they impact.

Many people think of PTSD as affecting people who have been to war or suffered a traumatic accident or incident, but some research has found that chronic illness can lead to PTSD symptoms . You could build an essay around this, discussing why this is and how doctors could better serve patients by understanding the connection. With an understanding of the link between PTSD and chronic illness, doctors may be able to help their patients not only recover from physical diseases but also the psychological effects of those illnesses.

Parents come in all shapes and sizes, and all have distinct parenting styles. Explore how different parenting techniques impact a child’s development. You can choose a selection of well-researched parenting styles and compare the outcomes with regard to child development. You may also choose to compare your findings to your own upbringing.

A panic attack can stop you in your tracks and make normal functioning impossible. Knowing how to stop a panic attack is vital to protecting the health and well-being of the individual. Explore various ideas for controlling a panic attack and helping someone achieve a positive mental state, such as deep breathing, meditation, or even taking a walk. Discuss why these tactics work and how someone can remember to use them during an attack.

Over half of all teenage girls and a third of adolescent boys have an eating disorder, and most suffer from anorexia. Explore what factors make teens more likely to try to control their weight in this unhealthy manner. Is it our growing dependence on social media and the perfect body image it portrays, or is it a change in our biological makeup? The statistics surrounding teen eating disorders are clear and established, but the cause is not. Consider using your essay to explore the potential causes of this serious issue.

High school is a challenging time for teenagers growing into adults and facing increasing academic pressure, which can result in anxiety. According to the National Institutes of Health , one out of three teenagers will suffer an anxiety disorder. This statistic shows that teenagers do, in fact, face anxiety in high school. Your essay could explore why this is true, include strategies teachers could use to reduce stress and comment on the overall impact of this anxiety on developing adolescents.

Sports psychology can be interesting to explore. In one study , researchers found that athletes’ physical prowess helped their athletic ability between 45% and 48%, while psychological health increased their ability by 79% to 85%. Based on statistics like this, create an essay that explores the impact of self-confidence on performance. 

Psychology has many branches. Choose what interests you the most and tell your readers why you find the field interesting. You can also include how the field’s lessons can be applied in everyday life. Always remember to have a good structure and do proper research to understand the topic and clearly explain it to your readers.

Personality, anxiety, PTSD, and depression are the most common psychological disorders many individuals experience. Writing an essay about these conditions is an excellent way to show how psychology helps people overcome their disorders. In using this prompt, add relevant information such as signs one is suffering from the condition or how to support someone with the illness. If you choose depression as a topic, see our guide on how to write essays about depression.

Beliefs have a significant impact on a person’s behavior. Use this prompt to give your perspective or share your experience on how an individual’s religious beliefs can affect how they think and shape the way they live. In addition, you can delve into the psychological impacts of religion and discuss whether it helps or hinders a person’s mental well-being.

Writing an essay about theories and experiments in psychology is challenging. For this prompt, you will not only choose a popular psychology theory to write about, such as “ Piaget’s Theory of Development ” or the “ Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral Development ,” but also experiments conducted worldwide to discover how the brain works and why psychological disorders exist. Consider commenting on how well the theory has been absorbed into our society and whether it remains credible.

Since psychology is a popular course, writing about different careers in psychology is an exciting topic. Include jobs such as a forensic psychologist, child psychologist, trauma counselor, or behavioral therapist. Use this prompt to write about a psychologist’s typical duties and responsibilities in a specific field. You can also add how much they earn and what other job opportunities become available through psychology. This topic can encourage your readers to pick a psychology career they want to pursue. 

Teenage pregnancy, rebellion, mental illness, and falling into bad habits are often the result of broken families and bad parenting. Use this prompt to show how vital a good family relationship is in a child’s development. You can add news, blogs, or interview someone willing to share their experiences to make your essay more credible.

Do you need topics on writing about family? Then, check out our 20 engaging essay topics about family.

Racism is a timely and controversial topic in social psychology. Use this prompt to show the effects of racism on an individual or country and add positive initiatives to reduce the violence it causes.

Essay writing tips : Add statistics and recent or popular news about racism to make your arguments reasonable and your essay credible.

Writing about a pertinent person in the history of psychology is one of the most straightforward but fascinating prompts. You should gather the person’s biography and professional history as well as their theories and influence on the subject. Consider famous individuals like Harry Harlow, Sigmund Freud, and other renowned psychologists of which the general public is already aware.

If you are interested in learning more, check out our essay writing tips!

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50+ Research Topics for Psychology Papers

How to Find Psychology Research Topics for Your Student Paper

  • 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."

Explore Psychology

How to Write a Great Psychology Essay

Categories Psychology Education

Writing a great psychology essay takes skill. You need good research skills to provide an adequate empirical background. You also need to put your analytical skills to work to evaluate the research and then build a coherent argument. If you are not used to writing psychology essays, it can be a little challenging at first (especially if you are also learning how to use APA format).

Remember, the skill of writing an exceptional psychology essay lies not only in presenting information, but also in synthesizing and explaining it effectively. If you need to write a psychology essay for a class, here are some tips to help you get started.

Woman writing a psychology essay

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Craft a strong thesis statement highlighting the main points of your psychology essay.
  • Incorporate research studies to support arguments and critically evaluate their validity and reliability.
  • Structure the essay with a clear introduction, focused body paragraphs, and a compelling conclusion.
  • Include critical analysis by evaluating research methodologies, strengths, weaknesses, and ethical considerations.

What to Include in an APA Format Essay

To craft a great psychology essay, it’s important to make sure you follow the right format. While your instructor may have specific instructions, the typical format for an essay includes the following sections:

  • The title page
  • The abstract
  • The introduction
  • The main body
  • The reference section

Mastering the key components of a psychology essay is vital for crafting a compelling and academically sound piece of writing. To start, a good introduction sets the stage for your essay, providing a clear overview of what will be discussed.

Moving on to the main body, each paragraph should focus on a main theme, supported by evidence from research studies published in peer-reviewed journals. It’s pivotal to critically evaluate these studies, considering their validity, reliability, and limitations to strengthen your arguments.

Incorporating research studies not only adds credibility to your essay but also demonstrates a deep understanding of theoretical perspectives in psychology.

The Structure of a Psychology Essay

Each section of a psychology essay should also follow a specific format:

The Title Page

The title page is the first impression of your essay, and it should be formatted according to APA guidelines. It typically includes:

  • The title of your essay : Make sure it’s concise, descriptive, and gives the reader an idea of its content.
  • Your name : Place your full name below the title.
  • Institutional affiliation : This usually refers to your university or college.
  • Course number and name : Include the course for which the essay is being written.
  • Instructor’s name : Write the name of your instructor.
  • Due date : Indicate the date when the essay is due.

The Abstract

The abstract is a brief summary of your essay, typically around 150-250 words. It should provide a snapshot of the main points and findings. Key elements include:

  • Research topic : Briefly describe what your essay is about.
  • Research questions : Outline the main questions your essay addresses.
  • Methodology : Summarize the methods used to gather information or conduct research.
  • Results : Highlight the key findings.
  • Conclusion : Provide a concise conclusion or the implications of your findings.

The Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for your essay, providing context and outlining the main points. It should include:

  • Hook : Start with an interesting fact, quote, or anecdote to grab the reader’s attention.
  • Background information : Provide necessary context or background information on your topic.
  • Thesis statement : Clearly state the main argument or purpose of your essay.
  • Overview of structure : Briefly outline the structure of your essay to give the reader a roadmap.

The Main Body

The main body is the core of your essay, where you present your arguments, evidence, and analysis. It should be well-organized and divided into sections with subheadings if necessary. Each section should include:

  • Topic sentences : Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea.
  • Evidence : Provide evidence to support your arguments, such as data, quotes, or studies.
  • Analysis : Analyze the evidence and explain how it supports your thesis.
  • Transitions : Use transitions to ensure a smooth flow between paragraphs and sections.

The Reference Section

The reference section is crucial for giving credit to the sources you used and for allowing readers to locate the sources themselves. It should follow APA format and include:

  • Alphabetical order : List all sources alphabetically by the author’s last name.
  • Proper citation format : Follow APA guidelines for formatting each type of source (books, articles, websites, etc.).
  • Hanging indent : Ensure that each reference entry has a hanging indent.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your psychology essay is well-structured, informative, and adheres to APA format.

Using Research in Your Psychology Essay

To strengthen the arguments in your psychology essay, it’s essential to incorporate relevant research studies that provide credibility and depth to your analysis. Utilizing research studies not only enhances the validity of your points but also demonstrates a deeper understanding of the topic at hand.

When integrating research into your essay, remember to include citations for each study referenced to give proper credit and allow readers to explore the sources further.

It is also important to evaluate the research studies you include to assess their validity, reliability, and any ethical considerations involved. This helps you determine the trustworthiness of the findings and whether they align with your argument.

Be sure to discuss any ethical concerns, such as participant deception or potential harm, and showcase a thoughtful approach to utilizing research in your essay.

Analyzing the Research Critically

When writing a psychology essay, using high-quality research sources and analyzing them critically is crucial. This not only strengthens your arguments but also ensures the credibility and reliability of your work. Here are some guidelines to help you critically analyze sources and use them appropriately:

Evaluating the Credibility of Sources

  • Authorship : Check the credentials of the author. Are they an expert in the field? Do they have relevant qualifications or affiliations with reputable institutions?
  • Publication Source : Determine where the research was published. Peer-reviewed journals, academic books, and respected organizations are considered reliable sources.
  • Date of Publication : Ensure the research is current and up-to-date. In psychology, recent studies are often more relevant as they reflect the latest findings and theories.
  • Citations and References : Look at how often the source is cited by other scholars. A frequently cited source is generally more credible.

Assessing the Quality of the Research

  • Research Design and Methodology : Evaluate the research design. Is it appropriate for the study’s aims? Consider the sample size, controls, and methods used.
  • Data Analysis : Check how the data was analyzed. Are the statistical methods sound and appropriate? Were the results interpreted correctly?
  • Bias and Limitations : Identify any potential biases or limitations in the study. Authors should acknowledge these in their discussion.

Synthesizing Information from Multiple Sources

  • Comparing Findings : Compare findings from different sources to identify patterns, trends, or discrepancies. This can help you understand the broader context and the range of perspectives on your topic.
  • Integrating Evidence : Integrate evidence from various sources to build a comprehensive argument. Use multiple pieces of evidence to support each point or counterpoint in your essay.

Citing Sources Appropriately

  • In-Text Citations : Follow APA guidelines for in-text citations. Include the author’s last name and the year of publication (e.g., Smith, 2020).
  • Direct Quotes and Paraphrasing : When directly quoting, use quotation marks and provide a page number. For paraphrasing, ensure you rephrase the original text significantly and still provide an in-text citation.
  • Reference List : Include a complete reference list at the end of your essay, formatted according to APA guidelines.

Using Sources to Support Your Argument

  • Relevance : Ensure each source directly relates to your thesis or the specific point you are discussing. Irrelevant information can distract from your argument.
  • Strength of Evidence : Use the strongest and most persuasive evidence available. Prioritize high-quality, peer-reviewed studies over less reliable sources.
  • Balance : Present a balanced view by including evidence that supports and opposes your thesis. Acknowledging counterarguments demonstrates thorough research and critical thinking.

By critically analyzing research sources and using them appropriately, you can enhance the quality and credibility of your psychology essay. This approach ensures that your arguments are well-supported, your analysis is thorough, and your work adheres to academic standards.

Putting the Finishing Touches on Your Psychology Essay

Once you have a basic grasp of the topic and have written a rough draft of your psychology essay, the next step is to polish it up and ensure it is ready to turn in. To perfect your essay structure, consider the following:

  • Make sure your topic is well-defined: Make sure your essay topic is specific and focused to provide a clear direction for your writing.
  • Check that you are highlighting a main point in each paragraph: Commence each paragraph with a topic sentence that encapsulates the main idea you’ll discuss.
  • Revise and refine your first draft: Take the time to review and refine your initial draft, guaranteeing that each section flows logically into the next and that your arguments are well-supported. ( Tip: Ask a friend of classmate to read through it to catch any typos or errors you might have missed. )
  • Check your APA format : Use the APA publication manual to double-check that all your sources are cited and referenced correctly.

Creating an amazing psychology essay requires a compelling introduction, evidence-based arguments, a strong thesis statement, critical analysis, and a well-structured essay.

By incorporating research from peer-reviewed journals, evaluating studies for validity and reliability, and considering differing viewpoints and ethical considerations, you can craft a powerful and insightful piece that showcases your understanding of the topic.

With attention to detail and logical flow, your psychology essay will captivate and inform your readers effectively.

268 Engaging Psychology Essay Topics

Welcome to an intriguing realm of vast possibilities! In the ever-growing psychology field, novel research and interesting psychology essay topics are evident every year, leading to exploration and discovery. This article offers an overarching compilation of 268 psychology essay topics and ideas. We have meticulously curated this list to inspire students and ignite a curiosity that will help them as budding researchers and psychologists. From the intricacies of cognitive psychology to the depths of recent social psychology research, embark on a thrilling journey as we explore the captivating realms of psychology essay topics steeped in inquiry.

Join us as we look at our opportunities in this field and unearth thought-provoking ideas in psychology.

Best Essay Topics on Psychology

Psychology is a diverse and intriguing field that entails a wide range of study areas. Here are some fascinating topics that delve into cognitive psychology, psychological disorders, social psychology, and cross cultural psychology essay topics.

1. The short-term/long-term impact of social media on adolescents’ mental health and well-being.

2. Causes, effects, and mediations: investigating the psychology of addictive tendencies.

3. Recognizing the impact of childhood experiences on the mental health of college students.

4. The responsibility of psychology in addressing and averting bullying in schools.

5. Development of post traumatic stress disorder in US soldiers deployed to Iraq

6. Investigating the consequences of stress on academic performance and cognitive functions.

7. Examining the correlation between personality traits and genetics.

8. The psychological impacts of parenting designs on child development.

9. Investigating the psychology of intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation.

10. The function of emotional intelligence in workplace success and interpersonal relationships.

11. Exploring a particular psychological perspective on a mental disorder and promoting the escalation of eating disorders in adolescents.

It is important to ascertain the resources you have available to carry out the assignment and what interests you in the field when determining an essay topic. Furthermore, confirm that the topic suits the essay assignment’s requirements and scope.

Psychology Research Topics For High School Students

There is a fascinating range of psychology research topics fitting for high school students. With malleable minds on the brink of understanding and discovery, high school students gain an inimitable capacity to investigate topics that reverberate with their curiosity and experiences. Our collection of good psychology research topics below is intended to drive a student’s passion to unearth the intricacies of human psychology, behavior, and the mind while dealing with issues applicable to the adolescent experience. From the effects of stress on a student’s academic performance to the impact of social media on a high schooler’s self-esteem, these academic research topics prod you to start exploring and discovering issues related to the human psyche and the distinct experiences and challenges of adolescents.

1. The influence of social media platforms on the body image and self esteem of high school students.

2. A psychological analysis of the stresses and coping mechanisms used by high school students.

3. The correlation between academic performance and motivation among students in high school.

4. Examining the impact of sleep deprivation on academic achievement and cognitive functioning among high school students.

5. The effect of peer pressure on risky behavior and decision-making among adolescents.

6. Assessing the function of meditation and mindfulness in lowering stress and boosting well-being among adolescents.

7. Examining the consequences of bullying on the psychological and mental health of high school students.

8. The responsibility of self-efficacy in goal attainment and academic achievement in high school students.

9. Investigating the influence of parental involvement on a high school student’s psychological welfare and academic success.

10. The link between psychological welfare and extracurricular activities in high school students.

These psychology essay topics for high school students offer them a starting point as they delve deeper into the field. It is prudent to focus on a certain phenomenon or aspect, do your research, and judiciously evaluate your findings.

Educational Psychology Essay Topics

As students undertake their personalized educational journeys, they seek to understand the psychological reasoning behind motivation, learning, and behavior. We have compiled a list of essay topics to serve as a gateway into the fascinating field of educational psychology. We aim to shed light on varying psychological theories, practices, and interventions shaping the educational arena. From exploring the influence of teacher-student relationships to examining how technology is used to boost learning outcomes, our selection invites critical analysis and exploration.

1. How educational psychology helps create effective teaching strategies.

2. The influence of fundamental and external motivation on student learning outcomes.

3. Effective strategies used by schools to promote constructive classroom management and behavior.

4. The effect of teacher-student rapport on academic accomplishment.

5. Assessing the utilization of technology in counseling psychology and boosting research and practice in educational psychology.

6. The influence of learning styles on information processing and student engagement.

7. Tackling the issues affecting diverse learners via comprehensive educational practices.

8. Does self-regulated learning help build student autonomy and success?

9. Investigating the psychological characteristics leading to academic procrastination.

10. The influence of educational psychology mediations on learners with disabilities.

11. The link between academic performance and self-esteem among high school students.

12. Examining the results of gamification and educational games on student engagement and motivation.

13. The effect of learning programs tailored to social-emotional growth on socio-economic growth and student well-being.

14. The function of metacognition in improving student learning and problem-solving capacity.

15. Assessing the results of parental involvement on student motivation and achievement.

16. The impact of contemporary mindfulness routines on student academic performance, self-regulation, and attention.

17. Assessing the psychological dynamics affecting student decision-making in learning environments.

18. Investigating the results of teacher feedback and expectations on student self-efficacy and motivation.

19. The duty of educators in using educational psychology to aid students exhibiting behavioral disorders.

20. Exploring the correlation between student learning outcomes and the classroom environment.

These topics take into consideration different facets of educational psychology, providing prospects to investigate the theories, interventions, and applicable approaches to improve student well-being and the learning process. Remember to choose a topic that is parallel to your interests and enables critical reflection and an in-depth analysis of your study topic.

Cognitive Psychology Research Topics

Cognitive psychology is a branch in the field of psychology that emphasizes how our brains process and comprehend information, including its influence on our behavior. This section explores different research topics that focus on different aspects of the human mind, including problem-solving, language processing, decision-making, perception, attention, and memory. From exploring our capacity to multitask to investigating the function of memory in information retention and retrieval, join us as we explore some research topics whose aim is to unravel the intricacies of the human brain and cognitive system.

1. The impact of sleep deprivation on human cognitive functioning.

2. The correlation between memory and attention.

3. Cognitive growth in adolescents.

4. Cognitive decision-making and biases.

5. The role of positive reinforcement in cognitive processes.

6. Cognitive processes related to problem-solving and creativity.

7. The influence of multitasking on cognitive processing.

8. The impact of working memory on cognitive performance.

9. The necessity for comprehension and language acquisition in cognitive processes.

10. The impact of aging on cognitive growth.

👍 Good Psychological Essay Topics

Developing a compelling topic is a prerequisite for writing a thought-provoking and engaging piece. In this section, we will look into several good psychological essay topics that address significant and pertinent issues in modern psychology. These topics allow students to dive into the human mind and discern different psychological phenomena. Let’s get to it!

1. The effect of childhood trauma on young adults’ mental health

2. The influence of nature versus nurture in determining personality traits

3. The psychological impacts of social media on body image and self-esteem

4. The correlation between physical health and stress.

5. Investigating the effectiveness of different psychotherapeutic tactics for dealing with anxiety disorders

6. The effect of parenting styles on child behavior and development

7. Comprehending the psychology of addiction and operational treatment strategies

8. Exploring the psychological effects of procrastination

9. The effect of technology on children’s cognitive development

10. Investigating the relationship between mental health and creativity

11. The psychological aspects and implications of decision-making in everyday life

12. Determining the psychology of bullies and strategies to prevent such traits from emerging

13. The psychological importance of happiness and the issues that add to personal well-being

14. Grasping the intricacies of human memory and its connotations for cognition and learning

15. The psychological implications of enduring unemployment on people’s mental health and societal development

You must develop an interesting topic that aligns with the goals you intend to achieve. Do your research, make credible citations with reliable sources, and develop a well-structured analysis or argument in your essay.

Interesting Psychology Research Topics

We will now look at a compilation of 20 interesting psychology research topics considering different mental health issues, cognition, and human behavioral aspects. They are intended to shed light on serious psychological issues, draw out the underlying mechanisms in use, and provide possible solutions for boosting our understanding of self and others, as well as improving well-being. These research topics demonstrate the varied and ever-changing characteristics of psychology and its influence on people.

1. The impact of social media on body image and self-esteem

2. The effect of childhood trauma on a person’s ability to get a job and retain it

3. The relationship between cognitive dissonance and decision-making

4. The psychology of substance abuse and addiction

5. The impact of parental attachment styles on romantic connections

6. The correlation between physical health and stress

7. The relationship between cognitive function and sleep deprivation

8. The psychological aspects of attraction and mate selection

9. The function of mindfulness in eliminating clinical depression and anxiety

10. The influence of beneficial psychological mediations on happiness and well-being

11. Psychological effects of prejudice and discrimination

12. The consequences of loneliness and social isolation on mental health

13. The function of personality traits in envisaging workplace success

14. Psychological effects of forgiveness on mental health

15. The impact of culture on ethical policy-making and moral development

16. How technology and multi-tasking influences cognitive performance

17. The psychology behind goal-setting and motivation

18. The correlation between leadership styles and personality traits

19. The effect of childhood attachment on young adults' romantic attachments

20. The psychology of sexual orientation and professional psychology of gender identity

Developmental Psychology Research Topics

Awareness of human development is an integral part of evolutionary psychology. It provides people with greater insights into how they grow, learn, and evolve. The field investigates the complex processes that form our social, emotional, and cognitive abilities from a young age to adulthood. The developmental psychology field covers a wide scope of research projects that dig into the intricacies of human advancement, boosting knowledge on the issues that affect our psychological development. These developmental psychology topics further enable us to recognize risk factors that may prevent healthy development, aiding us in getting perceptions for interventions that boost optimal growth and well-being throughout one’s life.

1. The influence of individual early childhood incidents on attachment styles present in young adults

2. The effect of parenting styles on the evolution of self-esteem in young adults

3. The relationship between play and social development in preschool children

4. The consequences of separation and divorce on children’s emotional adjustment and well-being

5. How gender identity in pre-school children evolves based on gender stereotypes present in the society

6. The correlation between personality and temperament development in early childhood

7. The influences of bilingualism on executive functioning and cognitive development in children

8. Social and emotional growth in children related to sibling relationships

9. The influence of media on the socioemotional development of children

10. Media exposure’s influence on the cognitive development of adolescents

11. The impact of cyberbullying on the social development and psychological well-being of adolescents

12. The correlation between cognitive skills and motor development in toddlers

13. The impact of abuse and neglect on psychological development and brain functioning in children

14. The responsibility of peer influence on risk-taking and decision-making tendencies among adolescents

15. The effect of early mediation curricula on the developmental results of children with disabilities

16. The influence of cultural values and socialization practices on children’s moral development

17. The correlation between social competence and temperament in infants

18. The responsibility of parenting habits on the enhancement of emotional management skills in preschool children

19. How adversity and stress in early life influence adolescent mental health and brain development

20. The effect of academic achievement and school setting on the psychological welfare of adolescents

21. The correlation between identity development, assessment, and psychological welfare of adolescents

Writing an impactful topic on human psychology could be tasking. Luckily, you can get   psychology essay writing services at affordable prices.

Personality Psychology Argumentative Essay Topics

1. The function of nature versus nurture in modeling personality

2. The effect of childhood experiences on the personality development of young adults

3. The influence of personality characteristics on educational and occupation success

4. The relationship between mental health disorders and personality traits

5. The role of individuality in developing and sustaining interpersonal bonds

6. The correlation between individual happiness and personality

7. The effect of cultural issues on expression and individual personal development development

8. The argument between social-cognitive theory and trait theory in describing personality

9. The influence of personality on risk-taking behavior

10. The effect of personality on effectiveness and leadership styles

1. The reliability and validity of personality tests in foreseeing behavior

2. The power of genetics in influencing the development of personality traits

3. The responsibility of persona in influencing one’s capacity to face adversity

4. The role of personality in the development of resilience traits

5. The influence of personality on substance abuse and risk-taking behavior

6. The correlation between creativity and personality

7. The power of social media on self-perception and personality growth

8. The difference between humanistic and psychodynamic models in describing personality

9. The effect of parenting styles on the promotion of personality traits

10. The correlation between criminal tendencies and personality

11. The influence of personality on brand preferences and consumer behavior

12. The development of personality and its relationship to the formation of relationships

13. The discussion between situational issues and individual variations in predicting behavior

14. The relationship between eating disorders and personality

15. The influence of personality on anorexia issues among teenagers

16. The correlation between personality and job satisfaction among young adults

17. The relationship between personality and decision-making involving ethical quandaries

18. The function of personality in molding attitudes geared towards inclusion and diversity

19. The correlation between emotional intelligence and personality

20. The effect of preschool attachment and family relationships on adult personality

21. The deliberation between free will, nature, and nurture in shaping personality

Social Psychology Essay Topics

1. The responsibility of prejudice and stereotypes in intergroup interactions

2. The impact of social customs on individual traits

3. The role of conformity in behavior and decision-making

4. The correlation between helping others and empathy in prosocial conduct

5. The influence of social contrast on self-esteem and self-perception

6. The connection between psychological disorders and welfare and social support

7. The power of social inspiration on customer behavior

8. The responsibility of social personality in molding group dynamics

9. The influence of collective exclusion on personalities’ mental health

10. The impact of groupthink on organizational decision-making

11. The responsibility of persuasion in behavior and attitude change

12. The influence of bystander apathy in communal violence situations

13. The impact of socialization on stereotypes and gender disparity

14. The influence of contemporary social media platforms on political attitudes and religious beliefs beliefs

15. The responsibility of compliance with harmful or unethical practices

16. The consequences of social isolation on mental wellbeing and cognitive performance

17. The role of cultural issues on social behavior and perception

18. The influence of socialization on molding ethical conduct and moral principles

19. The role of social contagion on behaviors and emotions

20. The responsibility of siblings in care for infants among African societies

Cultural Psychology Research Paper Topics

1. The influence of cultural norms on parenting designs

2. The responsibility of cultural values in molding self-identity

3. The impact of cultural variations on group dynamics

4. The relationship between cultural values and mental welfare

5. The correlation between emotional expression and culture

6. The influence of culture on cognition and memory

7. The role of culture in molding perceptions regarding death and aging

8. The influence of acculturation on Immigrant inhabitants

9. The role of cultural dimensions on governance structures

10. The correlation between moral and cultural development

11. The influence of cultural categorizations on intergroup affairs

12. The impact of culture on molding attention and perception

13. The impact of globalization on cultural values and identity

14. The effect of cultural norms on body image and eating disorders

15. The correlation between creativity and culture

16. The influence of cultural norms on consumerism

17. The relationship between cultural identity and language

18. The results of culture shock on mental adjustment

19. The impact of cultural practices on learning styles and education

20. A relative analysis of the connection between well-being and culture

Sports Psychology Research Topics

1. The function of rationale in sports participation

2. The consequences of imagery and visualization practices on athletic performance

3. The correlation between sports performance and self-confidence

4. The effect of self-assertion on the mental fortitude of athletes

5. The effect of stimulation and apprehension on sports performance

6. The relationship between sports achievement and goal setting

7. The influence of team interconnection on athletic performance

8. The correlation between sports participation and personality traits

9. The effect of coach-athlete connections on the psychological welfare of athletes

10. The relationship between mental competencies training and sports performance

11. The outcomes of meditation and mindfulness on stress management among athletes

12. The effect of psychological issues on rehabilitation and injury recovery among athletes

13. The link between athletes’ burnout and motivation in sports

14. The influence of sports involvement on athletes’ body image and self-esteem

15. The function of leadership in sports performance and team dynamics

16. The consequences of performance-enhancing drugs on the mental health of athletes

17. The correlation between daily aggressive behavior and sports aggression.

18. The effects of home-field advantage and spectators on the performance of athletes

19. The effects of participation in youth sports on life skills and character development

20. The responsibility of sports psychology in identifying talent

Social Media Psychology Essay Topics

1. The influence of social media on body image and self esteem

2. The effects of contemporary social media on self-perception and social comparison

3. The effects of social media on cognitive development and mental well-being

4. The relationship between self-presentation and identity creation

5. The correlation between loneliness and social media use

6. The consequences of online harassment and cyberbullying on mental health

7. The effect of social media on communication and interpersonal connection

8. The influence of social media platforms on attitudes and political ideologies

9. The effect of using social media to boost social change and activism

10. The role of social media in influencing sleeping quality and patterns

11. The role of contemporary social media on cognitive performance and attention span

12. The consequences of social media on eating disorders and dissatisfaction with body image

13. The impact of social media in molding brand preferences and consumer behavior

14. The upshots of FOMO (fear of missing out) on well-being and social media routine

15. The effects of social media on academic productivity and performance

16. The effects of social media on echo chambers and political polarization

17. The responsibility of social media in molding public opinion and perception

18. The influence of social media on critical thinking and information dispensation

19. The effects of social media on privacy concerns and self-disclosure

20. The influence of social media on social skills improvement and socialization

Media Psychology Topics

1. The effects of media portrayal of violence on aggressive behavior in a community

2. The influence of media multitasking on brain development

3. The effect of media on the development of eating disorders and body image displeasure

4. The effect of media representations of attractiveness and beauty on self-esteem

5. The correlation between mental health results and media exposure

6. The outcomes of media use on sleep quality and patterns

7. The effects of media on prejudice and stereotype formation

8. The responsibility of media in molding political thoughts and conduct

9. The effect of social media on relations and social interaction

10. The role of media on preschool children’s social and cognitive development

11. The impact of media on learning outcomes and educational performance

12. The influence of media in the development of public perceptions and opinion

13. The effects of media on critical thinking and information management

14. The impact of media on echo chambers and political polarization

15. The impact of media on anxiety and fear levels

16. The responsibility of media in improving wellness and healthy lifestyles

17. The effects of media on marketing and consumer decision-making

18. The role of media in the development of cultural values and attitudes

19. The effect of media on exploratory actions and sensation-seeking

20. The responsibility of media in molding stereotypes and gender roles

Psychology Persuasive Speech Topics

1. The significance of destigmatization and mental illness and health mindfulness

2. The effect of social media on mental well-being and health

3. The advantages of practicing meditation and mindfulness for stress reduction

4. The function of exercise in boosting cognitive performance and mental health

5. The effect of childhood encounters on adult behavior and personality

6. The impact of sleep deprivation on mental health and cognitive performance

7. The significance of early intervention in dealing with mental health concerns

8. The effect of music on temperament and emotional welfare

9. The advantages of counseling and therapy for the advancement of mental health

10. The responsibility of beneficial psychology in fostering life satisfaction and happiness

11. The correlation between mental health and social support outcomes

12. The impact of stress on mental and physical health

13. The duty of emotional intelligence in good relationships and communication

14. The influence of humor and laughter on physical and mental health

15. The advantages of volunteering for mental well-being

16. The effect of green spaces and nature on psychological development

17. The significance of self-compassion and self-care for mental health preservation

18. The influence of media representation on self-esteem

19. The responsibility of pets in diminishing stress and developing psychological well-being

20. The advantages of exercising gratitude for inclusive happiness and mental health

Psychology Informative Speech Topics

1. The history and promotion of psychology as a methodical discipline

2. The main divisions and subdivisions of clinical psychology

3. The major contributors and schemes in cognitive psychology

4. The fundamentals of behavioral psychology and its functions in behavior modification

5. The ideas and functions of social psychology

6. The analysis of deviant psychology and customary mental disorders

7. The significance of developmental psychology in comprehending human development and variations across their lifespan

8. The area of industrial-organizational and industrial psychology, and its effects on employer-employee dynamics

9. The ideologies and systems of affirmative psychology for disseminating well-being

10. The responsibility of neuroscience in discerning the link between human behavior and the brain

11. The importance of Freudian psychoanalysis on psychological history

12. The ethics and functions of humanistic psychology

13. The fundamentals of education theories and their use in academics

14. The notion of intelligence and varied methods of gauging it

15. The link between health and psychology, involving the area of health psychology

16. The relevance of research approaches and ethical concerns in psychological exploration

17. The critical theories and hypotheses in individuality psychology

18. The impact of heredity and genetics on personality and behavior

19. The analysis of negative emotions and their influence on well-being and performance

20. The purpose of sports psychology is to boost mental strength and athletic performance

Tips for Writing a Good Psychology Essay

1. be familiar with the psychology essay prompt and essay requirements.

An essay’s prompt offers particular directives on the question or theme you must address. Understanding it clearly will enable you to stay on track and respond to the prompt. This enables you to avoid going off-topic or presenting irrelevant information.

A good psychology essay has a clear structure and plan. Familiarize yourself with the requirements to effectively plan your essay. You can determine the arguments you need to incorporate, agree on the sequence of presentation, and apportion adequate space to every part of your essay. This warrants that your research paper is articulate and well-structured, enabling your reader to follow the argument.

You must also meet essay expectations. An essay’s requirements regularly stipulate various expectations like the use of particular sources, formatting guidelines, word count, and citation styles. Sticking to these constraints demonstrates that you fathom and regard the recommendations posited by the assignment. It further showcases your capacity to follow instructions precisely and observe academic standards.

2. Perform Meticulous Research To Get Pertinent Sources of Information

Accuracy and credibility are integral to your essay scoring high points. Conducting meticulous research allows you to verify the accuracy and reliability of information. You can increase the credibility of your research paper by collecting reliable sources from peer-reviewed journals, scholarly databases, and books. Solely using accurate databases to gather information gives your essay strength and boosts its overall academic integrity and quality.

An expert on a topic can clearly articulate a difficult concept using real-life scenarios. You should conduct thorough research to gain an in-depth understanding of the subject matter. It allows you to investigate varying theories, perspectives, pertinent research findings, and empirical studies. The more inclusive your research, the more superior your argument appears. You are better equipped to depict a nuanced and informed argument in your research paper.

It is also important to demonstrate expertise and knowledge. You should use relevant sources to get information to demonstrate your understanding of the subject matter. Students should include various high-quality sources, demonstrating they have comprehensively explored the topic. This reinforces your standpoint as a well-informed writer and boosts your essay’s validity.

3. Develop An Outline To Streamline Your Thoughts and Organize Your Essay

Any good essay must be well-structured and coherent. You should write an outline that will help you develop a well-defined and rational structure for your research paper. You can ensure that your paper has a good flow by segregating your primary ideas and their proofs into a systematic framework. This makes it flow smoothly and retains coherence, making it relatively easy to follow your argument and plot your line of thought.

You must also retain clarity and focus throughout your research paper. Writing an outline helps you remain focused on the primary topic and keeps you from introducing irrelevant or tangential information that would clutter your paper. It enables you to define the critical points you address and guarantees that you address them in a brief and organized manner. This is advantageous because your research paper gains clarity, eliminating the possibility of getting confusing and disjointed.

Get   essay outline writing services from professional writers.

A good outline will also guarantee you use time efficiently and optimally use the word count. Developing an outline before creating your essay enables you to plan and apportion your time and word count efficiently. You can ascertain the amount of space each argument or section should take up, allowing you to devote fitting attention to every point. This enables you to manage your time effectively and avoid spending a lot of time on less vital parts of your essay.

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  • A Research Guide
  • Essay Topics

120 Psychology Essay Topics

How to choose a topic for your psychology essay:, psychology argumentative essay topics:.

  • The impact of social media on mental health
  • The role of genetics in determining personality traits
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety disorders
  • The influence of childhood experiences on adult mental health
  • The ethical implications of using animals in psychological research
  • The relationship between sleep deprivation and cognitive functioning
  • The effects of violent video games on aggression in children
  • The role of nature versus nurture in shaping human behavior
  • The impact of divorce on children’s psychological well-being
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness meditation in reducing stress and anxiety
  • The influence of advertising on body image and self-esteem
  • The psychological effects of long-term solitary confinement
  • The role of attachment styles in romantic relationships
  • The impact of social isolation on mental health
  • The effectiveness of positive psychology interventions in promoting happiness and well-being

Psychology Persuasive Essay Topics:

  • The influence of parenting styles on child development
  • The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and adult mental health disorders
  • The benefits of mindfulness meditation in reducing stress and anxiety
  • The impact of video games on aggression and violent behavior
  • The influence of advertising on consumer behavior and decision-making
  • The impact of social isolation on mental health and well-being
  • The effectiveness of positive reinforcement in behavior modification
  • The role of gender stereotypes in shaping career choices and opportunities

Psychology Compare and Contrast Essay Topics:

  • Nature vs Nurture: Examining the influence of genetics and environment on personality development
  • Classical Conditioning vs Operant Conditioning: Comparing the principles and applications of these two learning theories
  • Freudian Psychoanalysis vs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Contrasting the approaches and effectiveness of these two therapeutic techniques
  • Social Psychology vs Cross-Cultural Psychology: Exploring how culture influences social behavior and cognition
  • Implicit vs Explicit Memory: Analyzing the differences and similarities between these two types of memory processes
  • Psychodynamic vs Humanistic Perspectives: Comparing the theories of Sigmund Freud and Carl Rogers on personality and therapy
  • Developmental Psychology vs Educational Psychology: Examining the similarities and differences in studying human development and learning
  • Positive Psychology vs Abnormal Psychology: Contrasting the focus on well-being and mental disorders in these two branches of psychology
  • Nature of Dreams vs Nature of Daydreaming: Comparing the functions and characteristics of these two types of mental experiences
  • Social Influence vs Individual Differences: Analyzing how conformity and personality traits affect behavior in social situations
  • Emotional Intelligence vs IQ: Contrasting the concepts and measurement of emotional intelligence and intellectual intelligence
  • Psychopathy vs Antisocial Personality Disorder: Examining the similarities and differences between these two personality disorders
  • Classical vs Modern Approaches to Psychology: Comparing the historical perspectives and current trends in the field of psychology
  • Gender Differences in Cognitive Abilities vs Gender Similarities: Analyzing the research on cognitive differences and similarities between males and females
  • Nature of Addiction vs Nature of Compulsion: Contrasting the psychological mechanisms and treatment approaches for addiction and compulsive behaviors

Psychology Informative Essay Topics:

  • The impact of childhood trauma on adult mental health
  • The effects of social media on self-esteem and body image
  • The psychology behind addiction and its treatment
  • The relationship between stress and physical health
  • The psychology of decision-making and its biases
  • The role of nature vs nurture in shaping human behavior
  • The psychology of attraction and romantic relationships
  • The impact of technology on cognitive abilities and attention span
  • The psychology of motivation and goal-setting
  • The effects of bullying on mental health and well-being
  • The psychology of memory and its reliability
  • The role of therapy and counseling in improving mental health

Psychology Cause Effect Essay Topics:

  • The effects of social media on body image dissatisfaction
  • The relationship between parental divorce and academic performance in children
  • The influence of video games on aggressive behavior in adolescents
  • The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive functioning
  • The impact of bullying on the psychological well-being of victims
  • The effects of peer pressure on substance abuse among teenagers
  • The influence of early attachment styles on adult romantic relationships
  • The effects of positive reinforcement on behavior modification
  • The relationship between childhood abuse and the development of personality disorders
  • The influence of cultural factors on the perception of beauty standards
  • The effects of parental neglect on emotional intelligence in children
  • The impact of unemployment on mental health and well-being

Psychology Narrative Essay Topics:

  • The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Mental Health
  • Overcoming Social Anxiety: My Personal Journey
  • The Role of Parenting Styles in Shaping Personality
  • Exploring the Connection Between Dreams and the Unconscious Mind
  • Coping with Grief and Loss: A Personal Reflection
  • The Influence of Birth Order on Personality Development
  • Breaking Free from Addiction: My Road to Recovery
  • The Power of Positive Thinking: How it Can Transform Lives
  • Exploring the Link Between Music and Emotional Well-being
  • The Psychology of Love: Navigating Relationships and Heartbreaks
  • The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health and Self-esteem
  • Understanding and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
  • The Psychology of Procrastination: Why We Delay and How to Overcome it
  • The Role of Nature vs Nurture in Shaping Intelligence
  • The Psychological Effects of Bullying: A Personal Account

Psychology Opinion Essay Topics:

  • The role of nature versus nurture in shaping personality traits
  • The ethical implications of using medication to treat mental illnesses
  • The influence of childhood experiences on adult relationships
  • The role of genetics in determining intelligence
  • The impact of parenting styles on child development
  • The role of dreams in understanding the unconscious mind
  • The influence of culture on perception and cognition
  • The impact of technology on attention span and cognitive abilities
  • The role of self-esteem in mental well-being
  • The effects of long-term exposure to violence on psychological health
  • The influence of gender stereotypes on career choices
  • The role of empathy in building and maintaining relationships

Psychology Evaluation Essay Topics:

  • The impact of social media on body image and self-esteem in adolescents
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques in reducing stress levels
  • The role of genetics in the development of personality traits
  • Assessing the effectiveness of positive reinforcement in shaping behavior
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of virtual reality therapy in treating phobias
  • The influence of parenting styles on child development and behavior
  • Assessing the effectiveness of group therapy in treating substance abuse disorders
  • The role of nature versus nurture in the development of intelligence
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of cognitive training programs in improving memory and cognitive abilities in older adults
  • The impact of social support on mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic illnesses
  • Assessing the effectiveness of art therapy in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety
  • The role of attachment styles in romantic relationships and their impact on relationship satisfaction
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of behavioral interventions in reducing aggressive behavior in children with conduct disorders

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How to Write a Psychology Essay

Saul McLeod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul McLeod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

Learn about our Editorial Process

Olivia Guy-Evans, MSc

Associate Editor for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MSc Psychology of Education

Olivia Guy-Evans is a writer and associate editor for Simply Psychology. She has previously worked in healthcare and educational sectors.

On This Page:

Before you write your essay, it’s important to analyse the task and understand exactly what the essay question is asking. Your lecturer may give you some advice – pay attention to this as it will help you plan your answer.

Next conduct preliminary reading based on your lecture notes. At this stage, it’s not crucial to have a robust understanding of key theories or studies, but you should at least have a general “gist” of the literature.

After reading, plan a response to the task. This plan could be in the form of a mind map, a summary table, or by writing a core statement (which encompasses the entire argument of your essay in just a few sentences).

After writing your plan, conduct supplementary reading, refine your plan, and make it more detailed.

It is tempting to skip these preliminary steps and write the first draft while reading at the same time. However, reading and planning will make the essay writing process easier, quicker, and ensure a higher quality essay is produced.

Components of a Good Essay

Now, let us look at what constitutes a good essay in psychology. There are a number of important features.
  • Global Structure – structure the material to allow for a logical sequence of ideas. Each paragraph / statement should follow sensibly from its predecessor. The essay should “flow”. The introduction, main body and conclusion should all be linked.
  • Each paragraph should comprise a main theme, which is illustrated and developed through a number of points (supported by evidence).
  • Knowledge and Understanding – recognize, recall, and show understanding of a range of scientific material that accurately reflects the main theoretical perspectives.
  • Critical Evaluation – arguments should be supported by appropriate evidence and/or theory from the literature. Evidence of independent thinking, insight, and evaluation of the evidence.
  • Quality of Written Communication – writing clearly and succinctly with appropriate use of paragraphs, spelling, and grammar. All sources are referenced accurately and in line with APA guidelines.

In the main body of the essay, every paragraph should demonstrate both knowledge and critical evaluation.

There should also be an appropriate balance between these two essay components. Try to aim for about a 60/40 split if possible.

Most students make the mistake of writing too much knowledge and not enough evaluation (which is the difficult bit).

It is best to structure your essay according to key themes. Themes are illustrated and developed through a number of points (supported by evidence).

Choose relevant points only, ones that most reveal the theme or help to make a convincing and interesting argument.

essay structure example

Knowledge and Understanding

Remember that an essay is simply a discussion / argument on paper. Don’t make the mistake of writing all the information you know regarding a particular topic.

You need to be concise, and clearly articulate your argument. A sentence should contain no unnecessary words, a paragraph no unnecessary sentences.

Each paragraph should have a purpose / theme, and make a number of points – which need to be support by high quality evidence. Be clear why each point is is relevant to the argument. It would be useful at the beginning of each paragraph if you explicitly outlined the theme being discussed (.e.g. cognitive development, social development etc.).

Try not to overuse quotations in your essays. It is more appropriate to use original content to demonstrate your understanding.

Psychology is a science so you must support your ideas with evidence (not your own personal opinion). If you are discussing a theory or research study make sure you cite the source of the information.

Note this is not the author of a textbook you have read – but the original source / author(s) of the theory or research study.

For example:

Bowlby (1951) claimed that mothering is almost useless if delayed until after two and a half to three years and, for most children, if delayed till after 12 months, i.e. there is a critical period.
Maslow (1943) stated that people are motivated to achieve certain needs. When one need is fulfilled a person seeks to fullfil the next one, and so on.

As a general rule, make sure there is at least one citation (i.e. name of psychologist and date of publication) in each paragraph.

Remember to answer the essay question. Underline the keywords in the essay title. Don’t make the mistake of simply writing everything you know of a particular topic, be selective. Each paragraph in your essay should contribute to answering the essay question.

Critical Evaluation

In simple terms, this means outlining the strengths and limitations of a theory or research study.

There are many ways you can critically evaluate:

Methodological evaluation of research

Is the study valid / reliable ? Is the sample biased, or can we generalize the findings to other populations? What are the strengths and limitations of the method used and data obtained?

Be careful to ensure that any methodological criticisms are justified and not trite.

Rather than hunting for weaknesses in every study; only highlight limitations that make you doubt the conclusions that the authors have drawn – e.g., where an alternative explanation might be equally likely because something hasn’t been adequately controlled.

Compare or contrast different theories

Outline how the theories are similar and how they differ. This could be two (or more) theories of personality / memory / child development etc. Also try to communicate the value of the theory / study.

Debates or perspectives

Refer to debates such as nature or nurture, reductionism vs. holism, or the perspectives in psychology . For example, would they agree or disagree with a theory or the findings of the study?

What are the ethical issues of the research?

Does a study involve ethical issues such as deception, privacy, psychological or physical harm?

Gender bias

If research is biased towards men or women it does not provide a clear view of the behavior that has been studied. A dominantly male perspective is known as an androcentric bias.

Cultural bias

Is the theory / study ethnocentric? Psychology is predominantly a white, Euro-American enterprise. In some texts, over 90% of studies have US participants, who are predominantly white and middle class.

Does the theory or study being discussed judge other cultures by Western standards?

Animal Research

This raises the issue of whether it’s morally and/or scientifically right to use animals. The main criterion is that benefits must outweigh costs. But benefits are almost always to humans and costs to animals.

Animal research also raises the issue of extrapolation. Can we generalize from studies on animals to humans as their anatomy & physiology is different from humans?

The PEC System

It is very important to elaborate on your evaluation. Don’t just write a shopping list of brief (one or two sentence) evaluation points.

Instead, make sure you expand on your points, remember, quality of evaluation is most important than quantity.

When you are writing an evaluation paragraph, use the PEC system.

  • Make your P oint.
  • E xplain how and why the point is relevant.
  • Discuss the C onsequences / implications of the theory or study. Are they positive or negative?

For Example

  • Point: It is argued that psychoanalytic therapy is only of benefit to an articulate, intelligent, affluent minority.
  • Explain: Because psychoanalytic therapy involves talking and gaining insight, and is costly and time-consuming, it is argued that it is only of benefit to an articulate, intelligent, affluent minority. Evidence suggests psychoanalytic therapy works best if the client is motivated and has a positive attitude.
  • Consequences: A depressed client’s apathy, flat emotional state, and lack of motivation limit the appropriateness of psychoanalytic therapy for depression.

Furthermore, the levels of dependency of depressed clients mean that transference is more likely to develop.

Using Research Studies in your Essays

Research studies can either be knowledge or evaluation.
  • If you refer to the procedures and findings of a study, this shows knowledge and understanding.
  • If you comment on what the studies shows, and what it supports and challenges about the theory in question, this shows evaluation.

Writing an Introduction

It is often best to write your introduction when you have finished the main body of the essay, so that you have a good understanding of the topic area.

If there is a word count for your essay try to devote 10% of this to your introduction.

Ideally, the introduction should;

Identify the subject of the essay and define the key terms. Highlight the major issues which “lie behind” the question. Let the reader know how you will focus your essay by identifying the main themes to be discussed. “Signpost” the essay’s key argument, (and, if possible, how this argument is structured).

Introductions are very important as first impressions count and they can create a h alo effect in the mind of the lecturer grading your essay. If you start off well then you are more likely to be forgiven for the odd mistake later one.

Writing a Conclusion

So many students either forget to write a conclusion or fail to give it the attention it deserves.

If there is a word count for your essay try to devote 10% of this to your conclusion.

Ideally the conclusion should summarize the key themes / arguments of your essay. State the take home message – don’t sit on the fence, instead weigh up the evidence presented in the essay and make a decision which side of the argument has more support.

Also, you might like to suggest what future research may need to be conducted and why (read the discussion section of journal articles for this).

Don”t include new information / arguments (only information discussed in the main body of the essay).

If you are unsure of what to write read the essay question and answer it in one paragraph.

Points that unite or embrace several themes can be used to great effect as part of your conclusion.

The Importance of Flow

Obviously, what you write is important, but how you communicate your ideas / arguments has a significant influence on your overall grade. Most students may have similar information / content in their essays, but the better students communicate this information concisely and articulately.

When you have finished the first draft of your essay you must check if it “flows”. This is an important feature of quality of communication (along with spelling and grammar).

This means that the paragraphs follow a logical order (like the chapters in a novel). Have a global structure with themes arranged in a way that allows for a logical sequence of ideas. You might want to rearrange (cut and paste) paragraphs to a different position in your essay if they don”t appear to fit in with the essay structure.

To improve the flow of your essay make sure the last sentence of one paragraph links to first sentence of the next paragraph. This will help the essay flow and make it easier to read.

Finally, only repeat citations when it is unclear which study / theory you are discussing. Repeating citations unnecessarily disrupts the flow of an essay.

Referencing

The reference section is the list of all the sources cited in the essay (in alphabetical order). It is not a bibliography (a list of the books you used).

In simple terms every time you cite/refer to a name (and date) of a psychologist you need to reference the original source of the information.

If you have been using textbooks this is easy as the references are usually at the back of the book and you can just copy them down. If you have been using websites, then you may have a problem as they might not provide a reference section for you to copy.

References need to be set out APA style :

Author, A. A. (year). Title of work . Location: Publisher.

Journal Articles

Author, A. A., Author, B. B., & Author, C. C. (year). Article title. Journal Title, volume number (issue number), page numbers

A simple way to write your reference section is use Google scholar . Just type the name and date of the psychologist in the search box and click on the “cite” link.

scholar

Next, copy and paste the APA reference into the reference section of your essay.

apa reference

Once again, remember that references need to be in alphabetical order according to surname.

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220 Psychology Essay Topics

Writing a psychology essay has many challenges that can deter students from starting or completing the writing assignment. From finding a topic with credible sources to citing formats and in-depth analysis, psychology essays often become complicated. However, it is possible to research and write a psychology essay in an organized and coherent format that follows the correct rules for avoiding plagiarism.

If you are a psychology student or writing an essay for a psychology course, check out the following guide detailing the basics of psychology essay writing along with 220 psychology essay writing prompts to help you get started.

What Is a Psychology Essay?

Psychology is defined as “the science of mind and human behavior.” It focuses on how humans think, act, react and feel. This includes the study of emotions, intelligence, thoughts, memories, learning, and motivation.

A psychology essay is usually written in response to a specific assignment question or topic. The goal of the essay is to demonstrate your understanding of the psychological concept or topic that has been assigned and your ability to analyze and interpret data.

How Do I Write an Effective Psychology Essay?

To write an effective psychology essay, you must first research the topic. This can involve reading journal articles, textbooks, and other scholarly sources. Then, once you have a clear understanding of the topic, you can formulate your thesis statement and develop an argument.

Students should outline their psychology essay before writing any drafts. The outline will help organize thoughts, examples, and evidence logically. A psychology outline should include:

An Introduction

No matter the type of essay you write for a psychology course, it’s essential to start with a compelling introduction paragraph to entice the reader and inform them of what will be discussed in the essay.

After relevant information has been covered, a psychology essay introduction must include a detailed thesis statement that details the point of the essay.

It is important to note that the thesis should not be a vague or broad claim that cannot be supported by the rest of the essay. In fact, an excellent thesis statement will detail the nature of the problem, its causes, and how it can be solved.

Topic Sentence & Body Paragraphs

Your essay should include at least three body paragraphs that address specific arguments relating to the thesis statement. Each paragraph must include a topic sentence and supporting evidence from credible sources. The topic sentence of each paragraph should link to the thesis statement while providing context for the evidence that follows.

Each body paragraph should only include one point per section. Don’t try to stuff all of your arguments into one paragraph. Additionally, each body paragraph should end with a transition sentence that flows into the thought of the next paragraphs topic sentence.

The conclusion paragraph should briefly restate the thesis statement and include a brief summary of the three body paragraphs. The conclusion should also have an opinion or evaluation on the topic being addressed. While including your own opinion is not required, it will make you stand out as a writer. Psychology essays written on unusual issues may require a creative approach to the conclusion.

In addition, students should include an introductory page with a running head and title page followed by a works cited/reference page at the end of the essay. Finally, all pages should be numbered consecutively, beginning with the introduction page.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Writing a Psychology Essay

Because of the detailed and informational nature of a psychology essay, it is essential to follow these important do’s and don’ts to ensure that your writing is compelling, accurate, and informative:

  • Start with a compelling introduction.
  • Use evidence from credible sources to develop an argument.
  • Write in the third person and include quotes.

Don’t

  • Omit, add or paraphrase information without providing citations for any ideas that aren’t your original thoughts.
  • Use an informal writing style that includes idioms or slang.
  • Use passive voice constructions (e.g., it should be ‘is’ not ‘was’).
  • Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that doesn’t connect to the thesis statement.
  • Follow a pattern of organization that is not logical or clear.

Psychology essays are an important part of most undergraduate psychology courses. By following the do’s and don’ts listed above, students can produce high-quality essays that effectively communicate their arguments and position on the topic being addressed.

If you have been assigned a psychology essay but aren’t sure what to write about, consider using any of these 220 psychology essay writing prompts. Each one is designed to help you explore an interesting topic in psychology and generate a well-written paper.

Psychology Essay Topics About Human Cognition

  • What is cognitive dissonance, and how does it affect human behavior?
  • Is the self a social construct or something innate to human nature?
  • How does experience influence perceptual development in infants and children?
  • How do culture, emotion, and cognition influence one another?
  • How do culture and environment influence thought processes in children?
  • What are the most common cognitive biases observed in human behavior?
  • What is the theory of mind, and how does it influence social interaction?
  • How does aggressive behavior develop in children and adolescents?
  • Does visual or spatial intelligence differ between genders?
  • How does the brain process information and store memories?
  • What is the effect of sleep deprivation on cognitive function?
  • What are the most common learning disabilities, and how do they impact cognitive development?
  • What are the best ways to enhance cognitive function?
  • What causes the decrease in cognitive function as we get older?
  • Does a reduction in cognitive function affect emotional stability?
  • When should a person seek professional help for a cognitive disorder?
  • What is the role of dopamine in cognitive function?
  • How do genetics and environment interact to influence cognitive ability?
  • Are the effects of diseases that limit cognitive function better reduced with traditional or alternative therapies?

Psychology Essays About Famous Experiments

  • How do Milgram’s obedience experiments challenge our understanding of human nature?
  • What can the Stanford Prison Experiment tell us about the power of authority?
  • What is the Hawthorne effect, and how does it impact research results?
  • How did the Watson and Rayner Little Albert experiment help to shape psychology as a scientific discipline?
  • What are the ethical implications of Milgram’s obedience experiments?
  • What are the ethical implications of the Stanford Prison Experiment?
  • What are some of the criticisms that have been leveled against the Watson and Rayner Little Albert experiment?
  • Are there any benefits to conducting research on children?
  • What are the most common ethical issues associated with psychological research?
  • Which groundbreaking psychology experiments from the past would be considered unethical in modern times?
  • Discuss the revelations of the Stanford Prison Experiment and how they might have been prevented.
  • What are the ethical considerations of conducting psychological experiments?
  • Should the benefits of understanding human behavior outweigh the ethical implications of a particular experiment?
  • Which famous psychology experiment has been shown to be false in modern times?
  • Which famous psychology experiment is no longer valid thanks to increased technology use?

Psychology Essay Topics About Psychology Careers

  • What are the most common career paths for psychology graduates?
  • How do you decide which psychology career is right for you?
  • What are the duties and responsibilities of a psychologist?
  • What are some of the challenges faced by psychologists in their careers?
  • What are the benefits of being a psychologist?
  • How do you become a licensed psychologist?
  • What are some of the areas of specialization for psychologists?
  • Should the average salary for a psychologist in the United States increase or decrease?
  • What are the job prospects for psychologists in the future?
  • What are the educational requirements for becoming a psychologist?

Psychology Essay Topics About Child Development

  • What is the impact of television on child development?
  • What are the best ways to discipline a child?
  • How do children learn to trust or mistrust others?
  • What causes bedwetting in children?
  • How does a child’s temperament develop?
  • How does language development occur in children?
  • What is the best way to solve problems parents have with their children?
  • How do children develop empathy for others?
  • What is the “terrible twos,” and why does it happen?
  • Does reading books to children impact their development?
  • What are some developmental milestones healthy children should reach by certain ages?
  • What is the impact of divorce on child development?
  • How does a child’s social environment affect their development?
  • What are some common issues that children experience during puberty?
  • What are the benefits of nature exposure for children?
  • How do siblings influence each other’s development?
  • Discuss different parenting styles and their effects on child development.
  • How do different parenting styles impact a child’s social skills development?
  • What are some ways to discipline a child without being too harsh or permissive?
  • Which psychological disorder is most likely to be passed down from a parent to a child?
  • Is sexual abuse as a child easier to overcome than sexual abuse as an adult?
  • Does abuse become a cycle if it is not addressed immediately?
  • How does child development research help to prevent child abuse?
  • What are the long-term effects of child abuse?
  • What are some warning signs that a child may be being abused?
  • How can parents get help for their child if they think they may be abusing them?
  • What is the best way to help a child who has been abused?
  • What are some of the warning signs of suicidal behavior in children?

Psychology Essay Topics About Disorders

  • What is the difference between a psychological disorder and a mental illness?
  • What are the symptoms of a psychological disorder?
  • What are the most common causes of psychological disorders?
  • How do psychologists diagnose psychological disorders?
  • What are the most effective treatments for psychological disorders?
  • Are there any benefits to taking medication for a psychological disorder?
  • How do psychologists treat patients with psychological disorders?
  • What are some of the most common psychological disorders that require hospitalization?
  • Which famous psychologist is well-known for his work on psychological disorders?
  • What is the difference between a personality disorder and a mental illness?
  • What are the most common treatments for personality disorders?
  • How can someone know if they have a personality disorder?
  • Is there a cure for psychological disorders?
  • Can psychological disorders be prevented from developing in the first place?
  • Are psychological disorders genetic?
  • What is the difference between a phobia and an anxiety disorder?
  • What are the most common treatments for phobias?
  • Can people overcome their phobias?
  • What is the difference between OCD and anxiety disorders?
  • What causes dissociative identity disorder?
  • What are the signs and symptoms of dissociative identity disorder?
  • How do psychologists recognize if someone has a borderline personality disorder?
  • What is the difference between psychotic and neurotic disorders?
  • What causes schizophrenia?
  • What kind of treatments does a psychologist recommend for schizophrenia patients?

Psychology Essay Topics About Branches of Psychology

  • What are some of the different theories within psychology?
  • What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
  • Which branch of psychology studies personality?
  • Is it possible to determine someone’s personality type just by looking at them?
  • How do psychologists conduct tests to measure personality traits?
  • Which branch of psychology studies how people are affected by their social surroundings?
  • What is the difference between positive psychology and clinical psychology?
  • Which branch of psychology studies intelligence?
  • How do psychologists test for different types of intelligence?
  • Are there any tests that measure creativity?
  • Which branch of psychology is most effective at treating mental disorders?
  • How do psychologists use different therapies to treat mental disorders?
  • What is the difference between a psychologist and a social worker?
  • What are the different specialties within psychology?
  • Is there such a thing as abnormal psychology?
  • How do psychologists study the human brain?
  • What is the difference between a research psychologist and a clinical psychologist?
  • What are the most common research methods used by psychologists?
  • How do psychological studies receive ethics approval before they begin?
  • What is the difference between an experimental design and a correlational design?
  • What is the difference between descriptive statistics and inferential statistics?

Psychology Essay Topics About History of Psychology

  • What are some of the significant events in the history of psychology?
  • Who are the most influential psychologists in history?
  • What are the most important experiments that have taken place in psychology?
  • How has psychology evolved from pseudoscience to a science?
  • What have been some most tragic events in the history of psychology?
  • How did the Scientific Revolution contribute to the development of modern psychology?
  • Why is Wilhelm Wundt considered one of the most influential psychologists ever to have lived?
  • What is Skinner’s theory of learning and behavior called, and why was it controversial?
  • What are some examples of cognitive biases?
  • What is the difference between a cognitive bias and an optical illusion?
  • When did psychology begin to flourish as a scientific discipline, and why do many historians credit the U.S. government with its success?
  • What are some of the most important contributions women have made to psychology over the years?
  • Who was the first person to study the behavior of animals in a laboratory setting?
  • What is the difference between Gestalt psychology and structuralism?
  • What are some of the key figures in the history of psychoanalysis?
  • How did Sigmund Freud’s theories about the unconscious mind influence psychology?
  • What is the difference between psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic theory?
  • How did Anna Freud change the way that psychologists think about child development?
  • What are some areas of psychology that psychoanalysis has influenced?
  • Who is Carl Jung, and what was his main contribution to psychology?
  • What is the “father of modern-day psychology” credited with doing?

Psychology Essay Topics About Drug Addiction

  • What is drug addiction, and what are the different stages that a person goes through in order to become addicted to drugs?
  • What are the physical and psychological effects of drug addiction?
  • How does drug addiction affect the brain?
  • What are some of the most common treatment methods for drug addiction?
  • What is relapse prevention, and how does it differ from drug replacement therapies?
  • What is the difference between a physical and psychological addiction?
  • Why do some people become addicted to drugs while others don’t?
  • What are some factors that can contribute to becoming addicted to drugs?
  • What is the difference between drug abuse and drug addiction?
  • How does withdrawal from drugs affect the body and mind?
  • What are the long-term effects of drug addiction?
  • How do family dynamics play into a person’s vulnerability to drug addiction?
  • What is the difference between treating addiction and managing a chronic illness?
  • How effective are drug addiction treatments?
  • Can drug addiction be cured, or is it a lifelong struggle?
  • What is the difference between 12-step programs and treatment centers?

Psychology Essay Topics About PTSD

  • What are the symptoms of PTSD?
  • How is post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosed in adults and children?
  • Why do only some people get PTSD after experiencing a traumatic event?
  • How common is PTSD among soldiers who have returned home from war?
  • What are some of the possible causes of PTSD?
  • Why do many people with PTSD avoid talking about or thinking about their traumatic experiences?
  • How does treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder differ in children and adults?
  • How effective are different forms of treatment for patients with PTSD, including group therapy and medication?
  • What are some of the long-term effects of PTSD?
  • Can PTSD be cured?
  • What is the difference between PTSD and everyday stress?
  • What are some common myths about post-traumatic stress disorder?
  • How can friends and family help someone who is struggling with PTSD?
  • What are some examples of PTSD in classical literature, such as The Iliad or The Odyssey?

Psychology Essay Topics About Social Issues?

  • How does the current political climate impact how people think and behave?
  • What effects to violence in video games have on behavior?
  • What are some of the findings from research on the biological factors that make a person more likely to become violent?
  • How has technology impacted current crime and criminal justice trends, including cyberbullying and sexting?
  • In what ways have social media changed interpersonal relationships?
  • What is the difference between positive and negative reinforcement?
  • How does the Social Learning Theory explain criminal behavior?
  • What is the difference between an individual and a collective conscience?
  • What is the difference between prejudice and discrimination?
  • Why do people conform to social norms even if they disagree with them?
  • Are there any benefits to living in a society structured around social norms?
  • How does the bystander effect explain why people don’t always help someone in need?
  • What are some of the different types of aggression?
  • How does Sigmund Freud’s theory of the Id, Ego, and Superego explain how people make decisions?
  • What is the difference between primary and secondary deviance?
  • How does the Labeling Theory explain why people engage in criminal behavior?
  • How does the dramaturgical perspective help us to understand social interactions?

Psychology Essay Topics About Sexuality

  • What is the difference between sexual orientation and gender identity?
  • How does one determine their own sexual orientation or identity?
  • Why do some people engage in homosexual behavior even though they don’t identify as gay, lesbian, or bisexual?
  • What are some of the different types of sexual orientation?
  • What is the difference between asexuality and celibacy?
  • What are some common myths about sexuality?
  • How does the development of sexual orientation differ in boys and girls?
  • What is the difference between love and lust?
  • Why do people engage in sexual activity even if they don’t want to?
  • What is the difference between sexual arousal and desire?
  • What are some of the different factors contributing to sexual violence against women, including date rape and domestic abuse?
  • Why do people engage in sex even if it poses a risk for them, such as contracting a sexually transmitted infection?
  • Can people change their sexual orientation or identity?
  • What are some of the benefits of being open about one’s sexuality?
  • How does the Kinsey Scale work?
  • What is transgenderism?
  • How does the Sexual Response Cycle describe the physiological stages of sexual arousal?
  • What are some of the reasons for engaging in sexual activity?
  • What neurotransmitters are responsible for sexual urges and arousal?
  • What is the difference between sexual paraphilias and fetish?
  • What is the psychology behind pedophilia?
  • What is the difference between a monogamous and polygamous relationship?
  • How does the development of sexual identity differ in boys and girls?

Psychology Essay Topics About Memory

  • What is the difference between short-term and long-term memory?
  • How does information enter into short-term memory?
  • How does information leave short-term memory?
  • What is the difference between recall and recognition?
  • What are the different types of forgetting?
  • What strategies can be used to improve memory?
  • What is the difference between proactive and retroactive interference?
  • What parts of the brain are associated with different types of memory?
  • Why do we experience false memories?
  • How does sleep affect memory retention?
  • How does alcohol consumption affect one’s ability to encode memories?

With these 220 psychology essay topics, students at any level of education will be able to research, outline, and craft a well-thought-out essay that will earn them a good grade.

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388 Hot Psychology Essay Topics for 2024 & Writing Tips

Make yourself comfortable. We are now entering a free unique ideas zone.

Jokes aside, in 2024, nearly every other person took a psychology course. Today, in the New Ethics era, it is necessary to know the fundamentals of psychology, right?

Branches of Psychology. Behavioral, clinical, cognitive, social, child, cultural, developmental, sports.

We are not going to teach you psychology. Instead, in this article, you will find a compilation of the greatest topics that can be used in various ways.

First, the list is for those who seek psychology essay topics to write about. We offer a vast range of topics on psychology subdisciplines; you can use them right away or as inspiration.

Second, it might seem unobvious, but those who have no clue about psychology can use our text to familiarize themselves with the discipline’s subfields . Read our topics attentively, and maybe you will find the sphere of life.

In the end, you can find tips on writing a good psychology essay and excellent psychology speech topics.

Let’s not waste a minute. We are starting right now 🏁

  • 📍 Definition
  • 2️⃣0️⃣ Top 20 Topics
  • 🧠 Topics by Subfields
  • 💡 More Essay Topics
  • 🧨 Writing Tips
  • 🗣️ Speech Topics

📍 Essay on Psychology. Definition

A psychology essay is a primary type of research that does not require you to develop new practical solutions to existing issues. Therefore, it is all purely theoretical. If you are curious to explore the characteristics of a psychology essay, read the list below attentively.

  • An essay is mainly about expanding knowledge , not finding solutions.
  • There is no need to take active steps since this type of research is theoretical and analytical.
  • Experts usually use scientific methods to collect and analyze data when it is required.

Comparison of essay writing and reasearch paper writing.

  • During this research, some scientific methods preserve objectivity, which is essential for adding to the scientific knowledge base.
  • There may be challenges because making predictions and assumptions in psychology is difficult due to individual differences.

2️⃣0️⃣ Top 20 Psychology Argumentative Topics

Here are examples of psychology essay questions that might help you get an idea of what area you would like to work on:

  • Can a sleeping schedule influence your ability to associate memories with emotions?
  • A case study of brain processes: how does the brain deal with sign language?
  • How to explain the compulsive use of social media and the Internet by teenagers?
  • What is the most popular legal psychoactive substance?
  • How can one bad experience with a dish make people refuse to try it ever again?
  • What are the positive effects of a low-meats diet on thinking skills in later life?
  • Should mothers with depression choose touch patterns with their babies, such as breastfeeding?
  • How does the synchronization of brain hemispheres affect the way we hear?
  • The main reasons why economic growth in developing countries does not boost citizens’ happiness.
  • Why doesn’t secure and happy childhood guarantee good mental health?
  • How do social interactions help individuals with food or tobacco addictions handle their cravings?
  • How is brain activity different when we use simple and complex grammar?
  • Is trauma-focused psychotherapy the best approach to treating patients with PTSD?
  • Why do we value friendship the most only when we know it may be highly needed or useful?
  • What causes procrastination, and can meditation techniques help get rid of that harmful habit?
  • What is the male bias regarding autism spectrum disorder?
  • Can behavior be passed through generations?
  • What is the role of fear and tension in childbirth?
  • Why do we experience twitches in various body parts while sleeping ?
  • The adverse effects of arguments and disagreement on the individual’s mental well-being.

🧠 Behavioral Psychology Argumentative Essay Topics

Behavioral psychology studies focus on the connection between our minds and behavior. The specialists in this area are trying to figure out what causes us to act in specific ways. Moreover, they keep discovering behavior patterns that may help predict how humans will behave. This way, there are more chances for us to build better social communities.

  • Which typical human traits can also be found in socially active animals?
  • The Cognitive Behavioral Family Therapy Concept .
  • How do family relationships affect behavior patterns in kids in various human development stages?
  • The Role of Mental and Physical Health in Eating Disorders.
  • The art of love: are there any typical mating activities that humans exhibit when they try to win their love interests?
  • Behavior Influence on Attitudes in Social Psychology.
  • How do marketing companies use human behavior patterns for their benefit , and do we know about it?
  • The secrets of cults: how do they involve people, and how do their minds work inside the organization?
  • Hormones and Behavior Interaction.
  • How does being in large groups of people affect our behavior?
  • The process of our reaction to danger: can we choose to ignore the escape or fight instinct?
  • Cognitive Dissonance Effects on Attitudes and Behavior.
  • The elements of nonverbal communication can be understood in various countries around the world. How do these mechanisms work?

The only unniversal body signs are facial expressions - anger, happiness, sadness, disgust, surprise and fear.

  • What causes culture clash, and how do people of mixed cultures behave in the new social environment?
  • Functional Behavior Assessment and Intervention Plan.
  • What is the correlation between the individual’s behavior patterns and self-esteem?
  • Religion and psychology: how do our religious beliefs dictate our behavior?
  • The Use of Behavioral Therapy.
  • What are the most common signs of depression that can help you recognize it immediately?

Clinical Psychology Essay Topics

Clinical Psychology is related to all mental illnesses and abnormalities. It is a beneficial study for people who suffer from mental health issues, especially if they are chronic or severe. This field of psychology is quite challenging but extremely rewarding.

  • Clinical Psychology: History and Nature .
  • Childhood trauma: the most effective therapies for helping children with behavioral disorders.
  • Intelligence Testing in Clinical Psychology .
  • Drug abuse: how does it affect other family members , and how can they participate in the treatment?
  • What are the long-lasting effects of childhood trauma, and how late in life can they show up?
  • The Mozart Effect Debate and Clinical Psychology.
  • The health risks of clinical depression and the preventative measures that can be used.
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder vs. Attention Deficit Disorder.
  • Depression Screening Tool in Acute Setting.
  • What are the impacts of the individual’s anxiety disorders on their daily and social life?
  • Media violence appearing in TV and video games and its influence on kids.
  • Moderate Depression Symptoms and Treatment .
  • Pros and cons of using online therapy from the client’s point of view.
  • Bipolar Disorder’s Causes and Treatment.
  • Major Depressive Disorder in a Child.
  • What issues can social pressure from peers cause in adolescent mental health?
  • The particular concerns for aging patients with the mental disorder of your choice.
  • Postpartum Depression Educational Program Results.
  • Websites promoting eating disorders and the ways people can overcome their influence.
  • How do approaches in diagnosis and treatment differ for the two chosen disorders?
  • Narcolepsy: Description and Treatment Options.
  • How are different types of therapy developed and their effectiveness checked?
  • The impact of social media addiction on people’s behavior.
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in War Veterans.

Cognitive Psychology Essay Topics

Cognitive psychology is about studying human cognition and how it is correlated with learning and behavior. Therefore, anything that has to deal with information processing, memory, attention, or perception falls under cognitive psychology research. In case it all sounds interesting, you are welcome to check out the following topics in this area.

  • Are positive emotions a result of happiness, or do they contribute to this state?
  • Cognitive Theory: History, Strength, and Weaknesses .
  • How can we be sure that some long-term memories are real and not created by our imagination?
  • Business and psychology: what learning strategies and processes prevail in successful entrepreneurs?
  • What Is the Role of Language in Cognitive Psychology?
  • Cognitive psychology: is the process of maintaining a habit stronger than the one that creates it?
  • What is the role of visual stimulation and smells in the process of positive memory creation?
  • Cognitive Behavioral Counseling.
  • Cognitive psychology and the digital age: the changes of children’s attention spans.

Excessive visual stimuli weakens a child's developing imagination. It is essential to play imaginative games.

  • Human Cognitive Development.
  • The differences between the genders in the perception of death and anxieties related to it.
  • Psychology of conspiracy theories: what are the main differences between the cases occurring nationwide and in individuals?
  • Current Experiment of False Memory .
  • Advantages and Disadvantages of Electronic Education.
  • What are the mechanisms behind selective attention behavior in kids and adults?
  • Is there something that stops us from achieving goals physically after emotional motivation is gained?
  • Improving Your Short-Term Memory .
  • Being mature adults from the perspective of cognitive psychology: why do some of us stay kids forever?
  • The Relationship between Age and Second Language Acquisition.
  • The differences between children and adults using arguments in a discussion.
  • What is the process of cognitive shifting , and what is the psychology behind it?
  • The Application of Trans-Cranial Magnetic Stimulation to Improve Memory.

Educational Psychology Essay Topics

The educational psychology branch specializes in the factors that affect learning. Therefore, professionals in this field are particularly interested in how people gain new information and why academic achievement differs for everyone. Writing an essay on one of the following psychology essay questions may be especially useful for high school and college students who want to know more about effective and efficient learning skills!

  • What makes a meaningful message from a mentor helpful and easy to remember?
  • Stress as the Main Cause of Students’ Academic Failure.
  • The most effective methods of support for students with autism spectrum disorder implemented in schools.
  • The critical aspects of academic success in exchange students coming from different countries.
  • How do harsh parenting and the absence of discipline at home affect school students’ performance?
  • Self-Efficacy and Self-Concept of Students in the Process of Acquiring Skills and Knowledge.
  • Different learning methods and capabilities of college students with the same academic achievements.
  • Practical learning approaches: should students learn by heart or build concepts while perceiving new information?
  • Effects of Sleep on Academic Performance .
  • How do various forms of bullying influence the academic achievements of high school students?
  • Educational psychology and sports: what is the role of educational psychology in training school athletes?
  • Importance of Motor Learning for Human Development .
  • Personal attributes in the class: how does attention-seeking behavior impact a child’s performance in the group?
  • Educational psychology : the correlation between the parents and child’s perceptions of homework.
  • The feeling of boredom and burnout at the workplace of choice: the main reasons.
  • Adult Learning and Cognitive Field Theories in Nursing.
  • Should all school teachers be assessed by their students , and what would be the effects?
  • Do special workshops for anxiety and stress management help medical staff and lawyers?

77% of respondents have experienced burnout at the current workplace.

Personality Psychology Argumentative Essay Topics

Personality is a fascinating topic in psychology. Specialists are interested in studying the individual’s way of thinking, typical acting, and feelings. Since personality is a pretty stable thing and usually does not change much with time, all the research in this area allows professionals to predict social behavior.

  • Self-Concept Development and Personality Evolution .
  • Is it true that people tend to pick their pets based on their personalities?
  • What is the correlation between personality type and the kind of preferred art?
  • The theory of Type A and Type B personalities : who is more successful?
  • The influence of personality type on the use of social media: extroverts vs. Facebook.
  • Personality Theory: Humanistic and Dispositional Methods .
  • Personality types in school: does lack of conscientiousness affect cheating rates?
  • Stress as a Psychological Factor of Physical Health.
  • Low and high self-esteem individuals: who is likely to be more competitive?
  • Certain personality traits that people who go into sports tend to develop.
  • Do people with the same personality types share their tastes in music, and why?
  • Birth order and personality of children : are firstborns more responsible than their younger siblings?
  • Dissociative Identity Disorder, Etiology, and Theories .
  • Marriage and personality psychology: do couples with similar personality traits tend to stay together longer?
  • What are the different personality assessment approaches, and what are the differences?
  • Prosocial behaviors and personality psychology: traits that are considered related to being selfless and heroic.
  • Managing Patients with Personality Disorders.
  • Different types of temperaments and their correlation with exhibiting creativeness.

Social Psychology Essay Topics

Social Psychology is the field of study that looks into people’s behavior within the social context. Therefore, it allows seeing how others influence our thoughts, beliefs, and feelings. There are many critical social issues in this area, and they cover stereotypes, discrimination, attribution theory, and others.

  • What is a halo effect , and what traits do we tend to assign to physically attractive people?
  • Social Psychology Theories: The Most Important and Useful Theories .
  • Social psychology and workplace: how does a halo effect influence our judgment during the hiring process?
  • Stereotypes about Physical Appearance – Gender Studies .
  • How does the way we dress affect the way people respond to us?
  • The changes in the attitude to the office workers wearing more casual outfits.
  • Sexual Minorities, Social Acceptance, and Mental Health.
  • Connecting with others online: does social networking help us spend more time with others in real life?
  • What is the correlation between the time spent online and time spent interacting in real life ?
  • The typical reaction of people who witness social norms being violated in your country.
  • Prejudice and Discrimination: Types and Causes .
  • Social psychology and marketing: what types of advertisements are the most effective nowadays?
  • Dependent Personality Disorder; Symptoms and Treatment.
  • What types of cognitive and persuasive techniques are typically applied in commercials?
  • Gender Inequality and Stereotypes in the Society .

What are the factors that affect people's ability to judge the facts and detect lies?

  • The factors that affect people’s ability to judge the facts and detect lies.
  • Forming Attitudes and Implicit Personal Biases Issues.
  • When nonverbal signals do not match verbal behavior, how do people react?
  • Intercultural Assumptions, Prejudices, and Viewpoints.
  • What are implicit attitudes , and why do they matter for our social behavior?
  • The surprising things about social behavior show that it is not as simple as we expected.
  • Cultural and Traditional Values’ Importance in Society .
  • How do social psychologists use neuroscience techniques to study stereotypes?
  • Application of social psychology in the study of conformity within behavioral finance research.

Cultural Psychology Essay Topics

Cultural psychology is all about how cultural practices and meanings affect us as humans. This study involves many specialists from other fields, such as linguists, anthropologists, and even philosophers. The main difference between cultural psychology and other branches is that the theories developed within it are considered very variable depending on the culture.

  • Family, Cultural Legacies and Identity Formation .
  • What are the relationships of cultural psychology with other subfields, and how are they different?
  • How are certain emotions interpreted differently in the chosen cultures from around the world?
  • Do start-ups and new businesses in big cities use cultural differences for their benefit?
  • Hispanic Population: Culturally Competent Care Delivery
  • How do specific local verbal and nonverbal insults spread and become internationally recognized ?
  • Can you use the same persuasion methods in different cultures, and why do they work or fail?
  • Gender Inequality: Cultural or Psychological Issue?
  • Why do some social media vary in popularity in different cultures, and what does it say about people’s personalities?
  • Socio-Cultural Contributions to Gender Roles .
  • What are collectivistic cultures , and how interdependent are people living in them?
  • Emotional disorders associated with cultural disintegration and the most common symptoms to notice.
  • Refugees and Socio-Cultural Barriers in Health Care.
  • How do cultural elements such as typical family traditions affect children from the early stages of development?

Family traditions help form stronger bonds.

  • Ethnocentrism and cultural biases as common yet harmful to mental health occurrences in countries with multiple ethnic minorities.
  • How do specific institutional structures in multicultural counties help people adapt faster and avoid cultural shock?
  • Intercultural Relationship and Communication.
  • Distinct cultural factors included in treating culture-bound disorders in a particular ethnocultural group.
  • Food Anthropology as the Study of Food in Diverse Cultures .

💡 More Amazing Psychology Essay Topics

Cross-cultural psychology essay questions.

Cross-cultural psychology is quite similar to the cultural sub-field. However, there are some differences. Instead of focusing on one culture at a time, the cross-cultural study juxtaposes and analyses the behaviors of people who grew up in distinct cultures. At the same time, it may be hard to distinguish them since this definition fits both areas.

  • How can the study of cross-cultural psychology help people around the world to solve universal education challenges?
  • Cross-cultural Differences and Interactions; Overview Essay.
  • Why are cultural patterns such as individualism and collectivism the focus of psychology now?
  • The applications of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions in optimizing the work of multicultural corporations.
  • Cross-Cultural Communication and Barriers .
  • Counseling and cross-cultural psychology: why is it vital for counselors to have multicultural competence?
  • What are the main issues of the five-factor model of personality , and is it a universal structure?
  • Cross-Cultural Psychology: Definition and Elements .

Five-factor model of personality.

  • The crucial differences between treating negative emotions in American and Asian cultures.
  • Multicultural Competence and Cultural Identity.
  • Subjective well-being and cross-cultural psychology: how do people evaluate their life satisfaction in different countries?
  • Conflict management from a cross-cultural psychology perspective: why can the Japanese be considered the most skilled in resolving group conflicts?
  • The importance of gender roles across cultures and how do cultures shape the behavior of males and females?
  • What Are the Effects of Cross-Culture Communication in the Context of Chinese Culture?
  • Cultural environment as one of the main factors affecting child development in countries with active war zones.
  • Emerging Issues in Multicultural Psychology.
  • Cultural priming approach as the way to look into self-concept in bi-culture.

Media Psychology Topics

As more and more new technologies appear, the need to understand how we interact with them is also rising. It seems to be the main focus of media psychology . Even though this branch is relatively new, its relevance is on the top since most of the world’s population has contact with media and technology.

  • How is the study of media psychology used in creating engaging and compelling content?
  • Issues of Portraying Women in Advertisements and Media as Weak and Fragile.
  • The influence of various media on the development of interpersonal conflicts within social groups.
  • Media Psychology and marketing : how are some psychology approaches used to create a compelling brand story?
  • Why is it so essential to create the correct content on the right platform for a target audience?
  • Positive and Negative Effects of the Internet and Social Media Technology Use on the Family.
  • The phenomenon of emotional contagion showing in regular Instagram users and its effects on subjective well-being.
  • How serious is the issue of self-objectification among the youth and its relation to posting selfies?
  • The Representation of African Americans in Modern Media.
  • Media psychology and addictions: the influence of social media usage on alcohol consumption in adolescents.
  • The feelings of being rejected and ignored aggravated by a decrease in popularity on social media.
  • Media psychology: what tricks do food advertising campaigns use to trigger people to buy more and overeat?
  • What Is the Impact of Media Violence on the Social Behavior?
  • Promoting self-expression: what are the effects of the excessive spread of personalization on mental health?
  • Do media promote multi-tasking, and how does it influence our lives from psychology perspective?
  • Social Media Effect on Identity Construction .

Social Media Psychology Essay Topics

There is another subfield of psychology that deals with media, but this one is narrowed down to the influence of social networks on people. The development of new technology and social media has brought us broad opportunities to learn and connect with each other. However, there is also the other side of the coin, which disturbs psychologists quite a lot.

  • What makes a person write a post on social media but delete it before even publishing it?
  • How Does the Level of Students’ Concentration Correlate with Active Social Media Use?
  • Contagious behavior and social media psychology: do emotions published online spread the same way as offline?
  • How long does it take for a stranger to draw conclusions about you from your profile picture?
  • Social Media Usage and Impact on Society
  • The correlation between personality type and particular posting in social media.
  • How does sharing something on social media make us feel more worthy and connected?
  • How Does Social Media Use in the Corporate Space Affect the Relationship between Job Seekers, Employees, and Organizations Alike?
  • Why does content that triggers strong emotions tend to be shared more often?
  • Addiction to talking about ourselves leads to posting most of the content related to our direct experiences.
  • What is the correlation between the age of users and the average time spent on social media per day?
  • Abuse or opportunities: how are social media related to people’s reward systems from the point of view of psychology?
  • Violence in Social Media and Its Impact on Society .
  • What are the adverse effects of online social exclusion on the development of children and teens?
  • What Are the Positive Aspects of Teenage Use of Social Media?
  • Do people consider their physical and mental security when sharing content on social media?
  • Do children from the younger generations feel like their identities are being shattered by social media usage?
  • Social Media Addiction and Self-Esteem .
  • Is the fear of missing out one of the symptoms of social media addiction?

Sports Psychology Essay Topics

If other branches study how our environment influences our feelings and emotions, sports psychology mainly focuses on the opposite. Specialists learn how psychological aspects might affect athletes’ performance. Even though some of them are interested in showing how sports can improve our well-being, professional psychological help for athletes is getting more and more in demand.

  • Achievement Motivation Theory in Sports Psychology .
  • Does the approach of persuading oneself to succeed work for team sports players?
  • Sports Psychologist: Working With Athletes.
  • Giving an additional option that allows the athletes to quit is a way to help them work harder.
  • Sports Team Participation and Academic Performance of Students.
  • Sport psychology in the field: what are the different coaches’ methods of motivating athletes ?
  • The psychology of successful athletes: why is being mentally tough so important?
  • How does aging influence the mental state of professional athletes, and what might help them?
  • Does Participation in Youth Sports Play a Role in Character Formation?
  • Why do some athletes forget about the importance of balance in sports, and what does it cost them?
  • Using the help of Steve Jobs’ most famous quotes in motivating athletes.

If today were the last day of your life, would you want to do what you are about to do today? (Steve Jobs)

  • Why do accomplished athletes not plan ahead, and how do they still achieve their goals?
  • Teaching and Coaching Techniques Used by Coaches for Effective Athlete Behavior Management.
  • Addiction in sports psychology: how to tell that you are addicted to exercise and recover?
  • The difference between elite athletes and the rest from the perspective of sports psychology.
  • Sport Psychology: Biases and Influence of External Rewards.

Funny Psychology Argumentative Essay Topics

In case you do not intend to write a thesis in psychology, you might as well have some fun. Some topics for your psychology argumentative essay don’t make any sense but are still worth researching!

  • Why does it seem like food tastes better when someone else cooks it ?
  • Are there any legit psychological reasons why people want to squeeze anything cute?
  • Optimism in Building a Romantic Relationship.
  • Familiar smells and depression: the scent of your grandmother’s house and cooking as the way to treat a bad mood.
  • What do the differences between book-carrying styles in men and women reveal?
  • Laughter and Humor in Therapeutic Application.
  • The list of reasons why our brains make us lazy which are supported by psychology.
  • Our brains are not programmed to believe that long-term goals are important as the reason why we fail.
  • Why Hollywood Still Has a Great Cultural Influence ?
  • The theory of contagiousness of yawns and the ways it helps people connect and bond.
  • Why do we care more about the problems of an individual than about mass tragedies?
  • Do Chimpanzees Really Have a Culture?
  • How do we hold hands : what is the psychology behind men having the uppermost hand while holding hands with their partner?
  • Memory and psychology: why do we remember the intro and the end of the speech but not the central part?
  • Human and Animal Language .
  • The effect of believing you are excellent at multi-tasking while your brain says the opposite.
  • What is the optimism bias , and why do we keep believing that the future is bright?
  • Service Dogs and Emotional Support.

🧨 Tips for Writing a Good Psychology Essay

Let’s now take a little pause and look at some essential advice we want to give you about psychology essay topics.

It is not that hard to write an impressive essay on a psychology topic if you know our tips and tricks . Even though the rules for academic writing are generally the same, this type requires additional attention to some aspects.

Here is what you need to know to get the most effective results:

Narrow down the topic. Never pick a too general topic; most likely, it won’t be as relevant and exciting as the narrowed one.

  • Zimbardo’s Stanford prison experiment
  • How has the Stanford experiment changed the understanding of human behavior when it is under situational pressure?

Follow the structure. If you want to be coherent and sensible, follow the standard sequence of the essay structure. There should always be an introduction, main body, and conclusion .

Know your topic. Including a list of well-known and reliable sources can help you look more knowledgeable and respectable writer. Besides, it is a great chance to find and study even more information on the chosen psychology topic.

Double-check the facts. Even if it seems like a simple and well-known truth, every argument you make needs to be supported by relevant evidence from the literature of other reliable sources.

Authoritative sources:

  • Publicly accessible databases and documents
  • Recognized professional publications and experts of the field
  • Peer-reviewed publications and journals

Be specific . Try not to write generalized sentences and paragraphs. Going off the topic might cause the readers to lose interest and even your track of thought.

Pay attention to the quality of your writing. Proofreading and checking your grammar should be a significant step in your writing process.

Be mindful of the context. Some psychological aspects might be universal, but not all. It is always better to consider all the cultural, economic, and even superficial biological differences between people.

🗣️ Psychology Speech Topics

Psychology persuasive speech topics.

In general, while working on your persuasive speech, you need to remember a few things. First of all, it should sound trustworthy, so don’t forget to include reliable references. Then, it is good to use hook sentences to keep your audience in contact with your speech. And last but not least, just turn on your natural charisma. Your main goal is to make people agree with your opinion on some psychology topic!

  • The way our thoughts have a direct influence on our body by creating specific reactions in the cells.
  • Marketing used by IKEA and psychology: objects created or put together by ourselves as more valuable.
  • Physician-Assisted Suicide: Patient’s Right or Hippocratic Oath Violation?
  • The tendency to choose beach vacations when we need rest is the result of a psychological trigger.
  • What are the main reasons behind the spread of the hikikomori phenomenon in Japan?
  • Euthanasia Should Be Illegal Because of Its Harm.
  • A new reflex or mental disorder: why do we keep hearing our phones buzzing when they are not?
  • Depression treatment: therapy or medications, pros and cons of each method.
  • Juveniles Should Not Be Tried As Adults .
  • Media giants and psychology: how do social media use tricks to play our minds into keep using their network?
  • Why do we need to pay more attention to our mental health as the average levels of anxiety increase?
  • What Obligation Do We Have to Improve Ourselves?
  • Psychology of well-being: can people be trained to become more optimistic?
  • Long-term social isolation and its direct effects on our health.
  • Why should marijuana be legalized?
  • Teaching the basics of self-care in schools is the way to improve mental health in later life.
  • Hypnosis: Fake or Real?
  • Why is our brain the least helpful tool in judging fake facts on social media?
  • Implementing mandatory counseling as the way to deal with drug abuse in colleges.
  • Should People Have a Right to Own a Gun?
  • How can the excessive use of social media lead to eating disorders in adolescents?
  • What is the psychology behind becoming a successful entrepreneur?
  • Parental Divorce Has Negative Effects on Children .

Psychology Informative Speech Topics

While preparing for an informative speech topic, you don’t have a goal to persuade anyone. Your main aim should be just to deliver information and leave all the opinions behind. At the same time, it is still essential to use reliable sources while preparing for an informative psychology speech if you want to stay a respectable professional in your field.

  • Is there a need to reevaluate the standard of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs ?

Maslow's hierarchy of needs describes how human needs are divided into levels.

  • What are the reasons for people to believe that adolescence is the most challenging stage of development?
  • Bipolar Disorder Overview and Analysis.
  • The way short-term and long-term memory works and how can our brains hijack it sometimes.?
  • Anxiety Disorders, Their Definition, and Treatment.
  • The most potent external stimuli can cause temporary shifts in our usual behavior patterns.
  • What is the importance of emotional intelligence , and why is it more valuable than other skills?
  • Human and Ethics Relations Analysis.
  • The most effective persuasion techniques successful speakers tend to use.
  • How does meditation work, and what are the most powerful tools it uses for relaxation?
  • Substance Abuse Problem Overview.
  • Mental Health Services in the United States.
  • Why do eliminating biological and environmental factors fail to treat severe depression?
  • What Are the Major Issues in Interracial Adoption?
  • Teaching intercultural non-verbal communication in schools is a way to prevent the appearance of cultural biases.
  • Modern Theories of Motivation in Psychology.
  • Why is the fear of public humiliation stronger than the fear of death for most of the population?
  • Is it true that violence appearing in video games has a negative influence on child development?
  • Storming Stage of Psychotherapeutic Group Development.
  • Psychology of subjective well-being: does making more money help people feel happier?
  • Why are the wealthiest and most successful people so interested in charity and donations?
  • Case Study Analysis: Individual Psychology .
  • The most effective methods to treat childhood trauma used by counselors in schools.
  • What type of change should people make in their lives to keep progressing as personalities?

Weird Persuasive Speech Topics about Psychology

You might think that you have seen all of it. However, you are mistaken! Some really weird psychology essay questions are hard to justify. Most of them are just theories, of course, and you might try your luck and find reasonable arguments to support them.

  • Is there any correlation between negative thoughts and the growth of facial hair ?
  • Detecting which eye drops the tear first is how you check if the person is happy or upset.
  • Are Art, Music, and Dance More Effective in Therapeutic Treatment ?
  • The length of your tongue and the ability to lick your elbow as the way to determine your sexual preferences.
  • Putting a question mark at the end of your daily affirmations will make them more motivational.
  • Divorce and Remarriage: Why Is It Important ?
  • Why do governments make us commit more crimes when they implement stricter laws and policies?
  • Why would people rather look forward to something terrible happening than not know what to expect?
  • Wasting Time With Strangers Online: For What Purpose and for Whose Benefit?
  • Baby fever is a phenomenon related to the scarcity sensitivity of our brains.
  • Why do people try to look for human faces on the wallpapers while sitting in the toilet?
  • Why Reality Shows Are So Popular ?
  • Intuition or brain stimulation: the feeling of being right despite the lack of solid proof and evidence.
  • The psychology behind the fear of happiness due to the anticipation of unfortunate events following.
  • Why Facts Don’t Change Our Minds?
  • How do we know that the typical Internet troll can be either a psychopath or a narcissist?
  • Horsemeat Scandal in Professor Elliott’s Review .
  • The reasons you should see your psychologists if you think that a celebrity has a crush on you.

Child Psychology Speech Topics

As much as we would like to think that children are like tiny versions of adult humans, there are too many differences. It appears to be the exact aspect that specialists tend to study in child psychology . They look into all the psychological processes emerging and developing from infancy till adolescence.

  • What are the main reasons that may contribute to the child’s lack of sleep?
  • Gender Bias in Child Care and Child Health: Global Patterns .
  • Why is it more important to focus on teaching gratitude to children than encouraging grudges with punishment?
  • Time-out is the parenting technique that is not almighty: when should we use it?
  • Cognitive Abilities Development of Children and the Role of Communication.
  • Acknowledging the child’s feelings is the way to go over their emotional dependency.
  • The way that children process the reality of fears and the importance of parents’ support .
  • What Are the Traumatic and Positive Effects of Divorce on Children?
  • How to support and guide children the right way when they face footage of physical violence?
  • Siblings’ relationship and psychology: the influence of having fun with siblings on your sense of humor in adulthood.
  • Children’s Development and Domestic Violence .
  • What are the most correct and gentle ways to inform your child about a divorce?
  • Favorite toys and child psychology : when should parents start worrying about the strong attachment to comfort items?
  • Teaching children how to go through a challenge as a way to prepare them for school life.
  • How Does Playing Influence Children’s Development and Learning Skills?
  • The Role of the Father in the Child’s Life .
  • How to prevent your child from forming negative stereotypes resulting from your generalizations?
  • Why is it better to continue lying even though your children know the truth about Santa?
  • The Analysis of the School-Aged Children’ Needs.
  • The importance of normalizing children’s feelings and helping them to cope with death.

Speech Topics about Developmental Psychology

Developmental psychology studies how humans develop from the first seconds of their lives up until their final years. Therefore, it is quite a vast subject. You are welcome to get some inspiration from the speech topics on developmental psychology below.

  • Positive reinforcement strategy and developmental psychology: do tangible rewards work as a better motivation for students than social ones?
  • What are the effects of bullying from peers on students’ academic achievement?
  • Role Development in Professional Nursing Practice.
  • The correlation between the parenting styles and the level of child activity.
  • Developmental psychology and language: how does sign language influence the language acquisition process in infants?
  • Biopsychology: Attention and Perception Interactions .
  • Who are the laziest and the most productive children in the family – firstborns or their younger siblings?
  • Is it true that not skipping breakfast positively affects a child’s performance?
  • Child Observation with Piaget’s and Freud’s Development Theories.
  • The benefits and potential disadvantages of listening to music while doing homework for the student.
  • Infancy and Early Childhood Development.
  • Are children more motivated to eat healthy lunches if they are packed in a visually appealing way?
  • How do the explanations of the behavior alter with age: blaming internal aspects or external ones?
  • Erik Erikson’s Theories of Human Development.
  • The correlation between the level of self-efficacy and the state of memory in older adults.
  • Developmental psychology and adults: playing simple mental games and solving puzzles to keep cognitive skills working.
  • Emerging Adulthood: Cognitive Development.
  • What is the correlation between the limits of short-term memory and people’s age?
  • Child’s Language Development and Joint Attention .
  • Resilience and developmental psychology: when does it develop, and when is it better to start working on this ability?
  • The main internal and external factors that affect the changes of personality with time.
  • Classifications of Life-Span Development .
  • Do the mother’s mental health and stress levels influence the child’s cognitive development?

Interesting Psychology Topics

Are you struggling to find an engaging and thought-provoking essay topic for your psychology assignment? Look no further! Here are some topics that will spark your interest and provide many opportunities for in-depth exploration.

  • The role of empathy in building meaningful relationships.
  • The psychology of addiction and recovery.
  • “Digital detox” practices for managing screen time and mental well-being.
  • The psychology of procrastination and ways to overcome it.
  • The link between personality traits and career success.
  • The psychological effects of color and its influence on mood.
  • The effects of technology on cognitive abilities and attention span.
  • The psychology of love and different attachment styles.
  • The influence of online gaming on social skills and psychological resilience.
  • The psychology of conspiracy theories and their effects on individual and collective behavior.
  • The role of nostalgia in mental health and coping mechanisms.
  • The impact of urban noise pollution on stress levels and mental health.
  • How positive psychology fosters resilience and happiness.
  • The psychology of friendship and factors that influence close relationships.
  • Gender differences in cognitive abilities and decision making.

Psychology Presentation Topics

For your inspiration, we’ve collected intriguing presentation topics that delve into various aspects of psychology. Get ready to captivate your audience!

  • The relationship between childhood trauma and adult mental health.
  • The role of attachment theory in adult relationships.
  • The neurobiology behind substance abuse.
  • The influence of virtual reality on mental health.
  • The psychological effects of chronic stress on the body and mind.
  • The link between nutrition and mental health.
  • Effective study techniques and memory retention.
  • The impact of childhood poverty on cognitive development.
  • The psychological effects of chronic pain and illness.
  • Psychodynamic therapy in treating personality disorders.
  • The intersection of psychology and economics.
  • The psychological benefits of pet therapy and animal-assisted interventions.
  • The impact of meditation and mindfulness on brain function.
  • The relationship between emotional intelligence and success in the workplace.
  • The psychological impact of parental divorce on children and adolescents.

Wow! Did you read all of them?

Now. If you haven’t picked THE topic, you should have found a psychology subdiscipline that caught your attention.

Social psychology? Developmental psychology? Or clinical psychology?

Have some rest, read other articles on how to write a good psychology essay topic, and come back to our topics compilation.

And we are done here! Post any questions below in the comments section.

Good luck 🍀

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200+ Psychology Essay Topics for College Students

Published by Denis on March 1, 2021 March 1, 2021

Psychology Essay Topics

Psychology is an important science that explores human actions and behavior; what motivates a person to act in the way he/she does? What are the factors that influence a person’s outlook in life, and interactions with other people? Numerous behavioral scientists have delved into psychology, but there is still so much that presents research and discussion opportunities. There are evergreen areas for essay topics psychology to be explored and documented.

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Understanding the human brain is the primary goal of psychology. But, many scholars usually find it challenging to comprehend the mind entirely. As the body’s most mysterious organ, the brain requires in-depth studies. Scientists often put several sub-disciplines in psychology that help them understand human action and behavior. In this post, we have compiled a detailed list of the top 100+ psychology essay topics for college students and scholars.

Writing an Essay on Psychology

Studying a subject involves research and documentation on a term, idea, phrase, or concept. An essay on a psychology topic puts this in written form, where the author explains the literal or definite meanings of the findings.

Psychology is largely an abstract science as opposed to say Organic chemistry. This is why it is always important to remain objective while writing definitive essays on psychology. This is only possible with excellent research and careful analysis. Still, once in a while, you might need a fast turnaround for your essay. When it comes to that, consider hiring a  Psychology essay writing service  that takes into account professionalism, quality, and deadlines.

Psychology Research Essay Topics for You

Psychology research topics can be divided in tandem with the discipline. Some of the significant disciplines of psychology include; cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, clinical psychology, educational psychology, and analytical psychology. In this guide, we shall help you find specific essay topics for every branch of psychology:

Also once you have chosen a suitable topic for your essay, ensure that you comprehend how you should be able to write an excellent Psychology Paper.

Analytical Psychology Essay Topics

This theory of human personality and the human brain views individuals’ behaviors as the full collection of their conscious and unconscious mind. Analytical psychology allows for archetypes that determine individual personalities. Here are some interesting analytical psychology topics you can research or write about:

  • How money affects behavior in marriage and gender in different stereotypes.
  • How can social media change the morality of a society?
  • Describe the psychological concepts of Yang and Yin.
  • Why is it easy for women to confirm naturally than men?
  • In what ways can employers help the employees to reduce stress?
  • Explain how different scientists explain homosexuality in their era.
  • Explain the psychological challenges that single parents have when raising a child.
  • Define the concept of self, as described by William James.
  • What are personality and its structures, according to Sigmund Freud?
  • Describe the psychology of dreams as well as their origin and development.
  • Why is it that more men in the community are mad or commit suicide than women?
  • Outline the psychological advantages of a parent breastfeeding their kids.
  • Explain the multiple intelligences child development Theory as given by Howard Gardner.
  • Describe the concept of money in gender and marriages.
  • Explain how you can maintain and not lose your personality at your workplace.
  • Define psychological health.
  • What are the main characteristics of a person who psychologically healthy?
  • Which psychological processes come to play when a person wants to participate in an intentional buying exercise?
  • Why do the majority of people need long-term relationships with other people?
  • In which ways does bullying among adolescents become normal that abnormal for adults?
  • How can you make your kid unique?
  • In what ways can you make sure that your kid grows in a morally upright way?

Research Essay Topics for Developmental Psychology

In brief, developmental psychology ventures are trying to find out how people behave in different stages and ages of their lives. In the past, developmental psychology was limited to children, but; later, it started to cover adolescence and adults. It brings out the concept of surviving growing developing and aging. Here are some developmental psychology essay topics for you:

  • Why do toddlers and get in fights?
  • What is the role of games in the mental competence of an adolescent?
  • Explain how moral judgment and reflective judgment develop in the mind of an individual.
  • How can you prevent child suicides?
  • What is the best way to solve a family conflict?
  • Describe the psychological status of someone who has been abused at the family level.
  • Explain aggression and how it manifests in children.
  • In which ways are boys raised by single parents different from other kids?
  • Why do “mummy’s boys” tend to show aggressive behavior, and what does this manifest in their personal development?
  • How does self-confidence develop in middle childhood from the age of 7 to 11?
  • Explain the change in roles between men and women in society today.
  • Define personal and social-emotional development, especially in old-age.
  • Illustrate the influence that mass media has had on the formation of a kid’s personality.
  • What are the psychological characteristics of adolescents who live with divorced parents?
  • How do gender roles positively or negatively influence our relationships in a family set up?
  • Explain masculinity and paternity as the primary personal determinants in parenthood.
  • Give the history of dyslexia and its causes. Also, review different methods of diagnosis and treatment of dyslexia.

Cognitive Psychology Essay Topics

Cognitive psychology is a branch of science that deals with the human brain. The study tries to understand how the mind can process and execute different actions. For example, cognitive psychology deals with language use and acquisition, memory, creativity, perception, and critical thinking. Here are some of the best topics you can write about in your cognitive essay paper:

  • Explain how human beings make choices and illustrate the decision-making process.
  • Which of the psychological mechanisms involved, especially in a deja vu effect?
  • How does attention influence the effective development and execution of cognitive processes?
  • Discuss the dual-process theory of thinking.
  • How does power loads moving in different directions influence short-term memory?
  • Define cryptomnesia.
  • Explain confabulation and paramnesia.
  • Explain how you can offer socio-psychological training using art- therapeutic techniques.
  • How does music affect cognitive development in primary school children?
  • How do social expectations for gifted children influence the kids’ self-esteem?
  • Describe the cognitive psychology of loneliness.
  • Discuss the Buddhism approach to cognitive psychology.
  • How does the media influence adolescent behaviors?
  • Describe emotional responsiveness.
  • Explain the therapeutic and diagnostic importance of medical empathy in psychology and psychiatry.
  • Explain how to cope with rage and anger.
  • Explain how to encourage creativity among kids. Explain how you can help kids with a bad memory.

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Clinical Psychology Essay Topics

Clinical psychology encompasses the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of psychological distress and mental disorders in individuals. These topics look to examine the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors that lead to mental health issues. Some excellent examples could include:

  • What roles does clinical psychology play as far as mental health treatment is concerned?
  • What are some of the ethical considerations when handling clinical psychology?
  • An examination of the evolution and history of clinical psychology practice
  • Relevance of cultural competence
  • A clinical psychology perspective on treating anxiety disorders
  • Understanding trauma and how it impacts your psychological well-being
  • The efficiency of cognitive-behavioral therapy in depression treatment
  • Benefits and challenges of using psychotropic medications
  • What are the pros and cons of diagnostic and assessment tools as used in clinical psychology?
  • Understanding the theory and application of psychodynamic approaches
  • Examining and promoting healthy relationships through family therapy
  • Applying mindfulness-based techniques in clinical psychology practice
  • Psychological factors that lead to addiction and substance abuse and the treatment approaches
  • Clinical psychology roles’ in addressing stigma
  • Evaluating criminal responsibility and competency in forensic settings

Psychology Argumentative Topics

Psychology argumentative essays invite thought-provoking discussions and critical analysis with the topics covering diverse areas in human cognition, behavior, and mental processes. As the argumentative essay presents and defends a given issue, psychology will help examine and evaluate the contrasting theories and ethical considerations. Below are examples of such essay topics:

  • An examination of environmental and genetic influences in shaping human behavior
  • Does social media usage cause psychological distress?
  • Candid examination on the validity of the Freud’s psychoanalytic theory
  • What are the ethical effects of using cognitive enhancing drugs?
  • Should placebos be used in research and therapy by psychological experts?
  • How does parenting styles influence the child’s development? Permissive vs Authoritarian parenting
  • Could video game violence be the reason for aggressive behavior in adolescents and children?
  • Can we rely on personality tests to measure personality traits?
  • Psychological profiling as a tool for criminal investigations
  • What are the effects of childhood trauma?
  • Relevance of emotional intelligence in professional and personal success
  • Effects of gender stereotypes on the career choices
  • Does the media influence eating disorders in adolescents?
  • What is the relationship between cognitive performance and sleep deprivation?
  • Ethical considerations in virtual reality as exposure therapy

Educational Psychology Essay Topics

Educational psychology topics will focus on understanding how people develop in educational settings. Captivating psychology topics focus on student motivation, instructional methods, and the educational environment in general. Educators and researchers can gain insights by looking at these subjects and know how to optimize learning strategies for students. Here are great examples to check out:

  • How technology affects student learning outcomes
  • How the teacher-student relationship affects their academic motivation and performance
  • How does metacognition help in enhancing effective learning strategies?
  • Does motivation foster student success and achievement?
  • Classroom design and how it affects student learning and engagement
  • Effects of emotional and social learning programs on student’s academic performance
  • Effective strategies used to address diverse learning needs
  • Impact of feedback and praise on student self-esteem and motivation
  • Promoting social and cognitive development in early childhood education
  • How does self-regulated learning help in promoting academic success?
  • How does culturally responsive teaching affect their cultural competence and achievement?
  • Impact of multimedia learning on understanding and information retention
  • Effects of classroom management techniques on student engagement and achievement
  • How to promote inclusive education for the students living with disabilities
  • Strategies for promoting perseverance and resilience in students

Cultural Psychology Essay Topics

These essay topics focus on how culture influences human cognition, behavior, and mental process. They look at how different cultural factors shape collective and individual values, beliefs, and behaviors. Cultural psychology also showcases the relationship between the human mind and culture and show the complexities of human behavior in different cultural contexts. Below are example topics:

  • Cultural differences in emotion expression and regulation
  • Cultural variations according to different perceptions and how it affects understanding reality
  • What are the cultural influences on child development and parenting styles?
  • Impact of cultural factors on beauty ideals and body image
  • Influence of culture on educational practices and learning styles
  • What role does culture play in shaping gender expectations and roles?
  • Role of cultural stereotypes in intergroup biases and relations
  • What are the effects of globalization on cultural adaptation and cultural identity?
  • Examining cultural influences on decision-making and risk perception
  • Research on cultural differences in conflict resolution and negotiation styles
  • How cultural factors shape the attitudes of the aging and elderly
  • How does culture organizational behavior and leadership styles
  • Effects of cultural values on marketing strategies and consumer behavior
  • What are the cultural differences in attitudes towards power dynamics?

Social Psychology Essay Topics

Social psychology topics focus on human behavior in social contexts. They look to investigate how individuals’ feelings, thoughts, and actions are influenced by group dynamics and societal factors. Exploring these topics will let you understand the intricacies of social influence, human interactions and prejudice among others. Here are few topics to research on:

  • What roles does conformity play in molding individual behavior?
  • Impact of social media on body image and self-esteem
  • Understanding social identity and how it impacts intergroup dynamics
  • What are the psychological mechanisms in obedience to the authorities?
  • Role of social support in handling adversity and stress
  • Examining the consequences of stereotypes
  • What psychological factors lead to the development of discrimination and prejudice?
  • Understanding the bystander effect
  • Examining the psychology of persuasion
  • Impact of cultural norms on social cognition and behavior
  • Understanding the psychology of romantic relationships and attraction
  • What are the psychological dynamics of violence and aggression?
  • Understanding psychological processes in group decision-making
  • What behaviors and traits make a remarkable leader?
  • Impact of social learning and socialization on an individual’s personality

Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

Some people have unusual behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. Odd mental conditions that seem challenging to understand for other people are classified as  mental disorders. Abnormal psychology looks at strange behaviors and actions shown by different individuals. Here are some of the best unusual psychology research essay topics for you:

  • Which are the four main D’s in abnormal psychology, and how valuable are they to practitioners?
  • Define psychological abnormality.
  • Who started abnormal psychology studies, and what was his /her approach?
  • Give examples of unusual psychology cases?
  • List down the importance of understanding abnormal psychology.
  • Which are the types of abnormal psychology?
  • Give a history of abnormal psychology.
  • What is the scope of abnormal psychology?
  • How would you offer psychological protection to children whose mothers suffer personality disorders?
  • Which approaches would you take in treating panic disorder?
  • Which are the challenges of group therapy in complex treatment of patients, especially in hospitals that handle severe mentor conditions?
  • Conduct pathogenesis of panic disorder and describe personality features.
  • Which are the best systems to use when offering psychotherapy for families with personality disorders?
  • How do nocturnal panic attacks relate to depressive disorders?
  • Give a theoretical analysis of the Emotional Stroop Effect.
  • Describe the personality structure of a patient with eating disorders and obesity.
  • Describe the treatment of depressive psychological disorders.
  • What is the connection between menopause and depressive disorders among women?
  • To what extent do hereditary factors influence depressive disorders in kids and adolescents?
  • Describe a psychological model as well as diagnosis and treatment of social anxiety.
  • Give a full description of cognitive processes, especially in organic brain lesions.
  • Describe schizophrenic disorders.
  • Give examples of ways in which the essential components of cognition are violated in schizophrenic cases.
  • Which is the best way to diagnose and treat children with attention problems?
  • How can you protect drug addicts psychologically?
  • How do drug abuse influence personality traits and relationships in individuals?
  • Describe circular depression among people with a concomitant personality disorder.
  • How to diagnose personality disorders among adolescents.

Cause and Effect Psychological Paper Topics

  • How do dreams cause anxiety?
  • Do advertisements have any effect on eating disorders?
  • How does social media influence empathy?
  • Do long-term relationships affect social behavior?
  • What are the psychological factors that influence a mass shooting?
  • Give the effects both negative and positive of stereotyping gender.
  • How does family violence impact on a child’s mentality?
  • How do learning abilities affect a child’s self-esteem?
  • What causes infidelity in marriage?
  • How does a parent and kid relationship influence the romantic relationship of the child’s future?
  • What are the impacts of parental alcoholism um on a kid’s mentality?
  • Who are the adverse effects of Barbie dolls on the self-esteem of girls?
  • Do computer games with violence contribute to adolescent aggression?
  • How do mood disorders come about, and what are the psychological and biological causes?
  • How do external factors influence child development?
  • Explain how stress causes psychological disorders.
  • Describe the child development of kids from overprotective parents.
  • Explain communication barriers between different genders.
  • How do emotions influence performance in sports?
  • Explain the therapeutic effect of music on our moods.
  • Is parental negligence to blame for child obesity?
  • How does bullying influence the mentality of children?
  • What effects does chocolate have on your mood?
  • Will singing cheer you up and why?
  • Does watching a sad movie make you cry? Give a psychological analysis of this phenomenon.
  • What are the therapeutic effects of painting?
  • In what ways does a professional psychologist get their personal life affected by their job?

Other Worthwhile Psychology Essay Topics

Psychology is a broad subject, and there is much more you can explore. Here are more uncategorized topics that you can explore.

  • A History of Psychology
  • The Role of Psychologists in the Corporate Setting
  • The Different Kinds of Operations, Methods, and Techniques Used for Psychological Warfare and its Effectiveness
  • A Look at the Career Field of Psychology and How to Become a Psychologist
  • The Psychology of Consciousness
  • How Psychology Relates to Accounting and Finance in the Fields of Memory, Personality, and Neuroscience
  • A Focus on a Career in the Field of Psychology
  • The Psychology of an Addict
  • The History and Applications of Positive Psychology
  • A Question on Whether Social Psychology Is More Psychological or Social
  • A Report on the Specialties in the Field of Psychology and Its Characteristics as a Career Option
  • The History and Evolution of Clinical Psychology as a Field of Practice
  • An Interest in Psychology and My Translation Works of Different Psychology Blogs and Documents
  • Understanding Psychology and Theories Associated With It
  • A Discussion of the Importance of Psychology in Our Everyday Lives
  • An Analysis of the Evolution of Forensic Psychology
  • An Analysis of the Four Main Methods of Test and Surveys in Psychology
  • An Analysis of the Child Psychology and Psychological Disorders
  • An Analysis of the Sport Psychology
  • The Concepts of the Brain, Sensation, Perception, and the Nature Versus Nurture Debate in My Psychological Course
  • An Overview of Major Contributors to the Development of Psychology as a Science
  • Psychology as a Real Science and the Common Misconceptions About Psychology
  • An Analysis of Psychological Health vs. Mental Illness
  • The Characteristics, Causes, and Prevalence of Panic Disorder, an Anxiety Disorder
  • An Overview of the Career of Psychology
  • The Views of Franz Brentano on the Philosophical Concept of Consciousness
  • An Analysis of Psychology
  • An Evaluation of the Success of Psychology and Its Extent
  • An Overview of the Reasons to Study Psychology
  • The Objectives of the Master’s in Counseling Program
  • The Growth and Role of Forensic Psychology
  • Understanding Human Behavior Through Psychology
  • The Career of a Clinical Psychologist
  • The Causes and Treatment of Bipolar Disorder
  • The Harmful Effect of Violent Lyrical Content in Music on Teenage Behaviors
  • The Ignorance About Child Abuse and Measures to Solve This
  • A Discussion of the Meaning of Aphorism and Its Uses
  • An Analysis of the Topic of the Children’s Perception
  • A Discussion on the Stressful Impact of Exams on Students
  • A Summary of the Reinforcement Theory
  • The Causes, Symptoms, and Spread of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
  • A Comparison of Two Interviews on the Subject of True Happiness
  • The Effects of Separating Twins in the Society
  • The Zodiac Circle Inside You
  • A Review of Major Happenings in the World from My Childhood to Adulthood
  • Psychological and Physical Effects of Drug Use in Today’s Adolescents
  • Comparison of Men and Women’s Sensitivity to Emotions
  • The Origins of Strange Habits
  • The Concepts of Psychology and the Fundamental Thinking Skills
  • A Career Analysis: Psychologist
  • The Perks of Choosing and Graduating as a Psychology Major
  • The Psychology of Color
  • An Overview of Psychology
  • Understanding Different Psychology Modules
  • Career Goals in Accomplishing Psychology Major
  • A Look at the Field of Psychology and Its Application as a Human Science
  • The Ten Early Perspectives in Psychology
  • Understanding Sport Psychology
  • The Evolution of the Field of Psychology Throughout History
  • An Analysis of the Best and Simplest Summary of Psychological Principles
  • The Different Functions of Counseling and Educational Psychology
  • The Career of a Clinical Child Psychologist
  •  Define depression and explain why society should take it seriously.
  • Define social Darwinism In terms of racism.
  • What is the unconscious inference?
  • Define a borderline personality.
  • What is the primary purpose of defense mechanisms?
  • Explain memory errors and name three types of memory errors
  • What is self-esteem?
  • Define traumatic grief and explain whether its effects are irreversible.
  • What are the Macbeth effect and its causes?

How to Choose a Topic for a Psychology Essay

There are several approaches you can use when writing essay topics psychology;

  • Pick an unexplored topic – If you have the time and resources, picking an unexplored topic will test your knowledge and establish you as an authority in the subject of interest.
  • Revisit a controversial topic – There is no shortage of controversial topics in psychology. This approach will help you better the body of knowledge in psychology.
  • Narrow down – As a life science, psychology is a broad enough subject to offer niche topics that present excellent research opportunities. Narrowing down will go a long way in helping you focus on a specific subject. However, you should be careful not to narrow down too much such that you will not get sources of information to explore your topic.
  • Choose a topic that interests you – One of the biggest mistakes that students make is picking topics that don’t interest them. If it is a subject that you like, you are going to enjoy working on it, and you will be motivated to do thorough research.
  • Consider the amount of information you will need for the essay – Most time, the professors tell you how many references they will need for a given assignment. Remember that different psychology subjects have varying content. The most explored ones could have more information compared to the areas that have not been tackled much. Keeping this in mind while choosing your topic will go a long way in preventing you from getting stranded in the middle of your write up.

Writing a psychology essay may look daunting. But solid research and careful analysis of what you want to write on does half of the work. Sometimes, you might write a well-informed essay but struggle to come up with a topic. Do not worry; you are like many out there. This creative  essay title generator  might be what you need. The challenges you face in writing the essay are worth the satisfaction of knowing that you have made a mark in this crucial life science.

Psychology is an exciting subject, and if you choose the right topic and do ample research, it is easy to nail that paper. To impress the reader further, do your work professionally by ensuring there are no grammatical errors, and your content is original: a  plagiarism checker  can help you with this.

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Psychology - Essay Examples And Topic Ideas For Free

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior. An essay on psychology could delve into various psychological theories, explore the impact of mental health on society, or discuss how psychological principles are applied in education, work, and relationships. Understanding different psychological disorders and the methods used in therapy could also be an engaging topic. A vast selection of complimentary essay illustrations pertaining to Psychology you can find at PapersOwl Website. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Yearbook of Psychology between 1961 and 1971

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Behavior Changes

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Integrated Studies Social Work& Psychology

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Inferential Stats Analysis for Psychology

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Nature Vs Nurture Psychology Debate

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Sigmund Freud: Life, Theory & Contributions to Psychology

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Active Listening

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Diversity in Psychology: Absence of Gender Equality, Cultural Diversity and Inclusion in Psychology

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“Eminent Women in Psychology” by Martha E. Bernal

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Essay on Psychology Psychology uses the scientific method to study and concentrate on human/animal thinking and behavior. Psychology can be known to be scientific as it follows the empirical method. Empirical evidence is information taking by observation or experimentation. John Locke, David Hume, and David Hartley and many more were British empiricists who addressed the value of experience in the findings of knowledge. The main source of knowledge would be the world is a sensory experience which is information that comes to our senses or our inferences between the relationships of sensory facts. Empirical is often used with the concept of science which implies that science used observation, measurement of the world and collecting data in the environment. This view is in contrast with the Rationalists who accepted that knowledge is innate and inborn. All scientists use the empirical method. The scientist then analyse and evaluate this data to form theories that explain these observations. Psychological research must reach such levels of criteria in order for it to be considered scientific. It must ensure that it has to be Replicable and precise. Replicable research must be repeated several times to ensure they receive the same results. If shown the same results it shows the truth of the original research. Researchers must make sure they evaluate there research and were they received the information from, and clearly explain how their experiment was structured and how they achieved them results. There are two main concepts for a scientific approach which are theory and hypothesis. There are many different forms of scientific methods that can be used such as, experiments, descriptive studies, case studies and surveys. Scientific research is manipulated so that we observe the effect this has on something else to Control observation. Observations is our existing knowledge that determines our judgment and our viewpoint. Using scientific methods with tight control of variables allows for cause and effect relationships to be determined. This together with replication adds strength and validity to the theories produced. Sigmund Freud was one of the most influential scientists in the fields of psychology and psychiatry. It has been over 100 years since Freud published his theories, yet he still influences what we think about personality and the mind. Freud was best known for his theories of the unconscious mind, dreams, infantile sexuality, libido, repression, and transference, ego, and the superego. Through the development of a novel observational method, Sigmund Freud made possible the collection of reliable data about man's inner life. The scientific hypotheses he formulated about these formed the initial version of psychoanalysis. Many of these first thoughts have had to be revised in the light of subsequent scientific findings of the operations of the central nervous system, but even these refuted propositions often had much heuristic value. Despite the passage of a whole century, many Freudian hypotheses have retained their scientific standing. Most important among these was Freud's realization that human thought is usually unconscious. His understanding of the role of the automatic repetition of basic patterns of behavior, of the fateful consequences of early childhood emotional vicissitudes in structuring enduring mental dispositions, and of the distinction between two distinct modes of thinking are the most significant among his many contributions. 

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Home / Essay Samples / Psychology

Psychology Essay Examples

Psychology is a fascinating field that delves into the complexities of human behavior, emotions, cognition, and more. An essay example in psychology serves a crucial purpose in offering insights into the application of psychological theories, research methods, and analysis of human experiences. It provides readers with a tangible illustration of how psychological concepts can be explored and discussed in written form. A psychology essay example effectively illustrates theoretical concepts, such as theories of personality, cognitive development, or social behavior. It demonstrates how these theories can be applied to real-life scenarios, making the abstract ideas more relatable and understandable for readers. Essay examples in psychology often showcase how research methods are employed to investigate various psychological phenomena. Readers can see how experiments, surveys, case studies, and observations are conducted to gather data and draw meaningful conclusions. Psychology essay examples involve critical analysis of research findings, theories, or concepts. This analysis highlights the strengths and limitations of different approaches and encourages readers to think critically about psychological research and its implications. Writing Tips for Essays About Psychology:

Clear Thesis: Begin with a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the main argument or point of your essay. Evidence-Based: Support your arguments with relevant research findings, empirical evidence, or case examples. Structure: Organize your essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph should focus on a specific point and connect logically to the next. Analysis: Engage in critical analysis and evaluation of psychological theories, research, or concepts. Discuss strengths, weaknesses, and implications. Cohesiveness: Ensure that your essay flows smoothly, with coherent transitions between paragraphs and ideas. References: Properly cite your sources using the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA) to give credit to the original authors and avoid plagiarism.

A psychology essay example serves as a valuable tool for demonstrating the practical applications of psychological concepts and research methods. By studying and analyzing these examples, readers can gain insights into how to effectively convey complex psychological ideas through written essays and deepen their understanding of the field.

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  • Child Development
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Psychologist
  • Operant Conditioning
  • Growth Mindset
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Procrastination
  • Problem Solving
  • Intelligence
  • Big Five Personality Traits
  • William James
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • Attribution Theory
  • Birth Order
  • Conflict Resolution Theory
  • Covert Observations
  • Critical Reflection
  • Educational Psychology
  • Experimental Psychology
  • Milgram Experiment
  • Neuroscience
  • Personal Development Planning
  • Positive Attitude
  • Positive Psychology
  • Psychological Theories
  • Short Term Memory
  • Social Psychology
  • Stroop Effect
  • The Bystander Effect

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