Psychology For All

I was in college the first time I was ever exposed to the warning signs of a codependent relationship.

I had already graduated by the time anyone was talking about professional leadership development.

I majored in Psychology which led me to a fascinating wealth of information concerning human growth, development, and interpersonal relationships. But I faced a pervasive belief that a Bachelor's in Psychology is worthless.

I cannot tell you how many young professionals I have encountered, when I disclose I majored in Psychology and minored in Studio Art, they quizzically ask, "What do those two have to do with each other?"

But the real question is, what does psychology NOT have to do with? To me, it is connected to literally every other aspect of life.

As an elementary child, when you are learning how to establish healthy boundaries in new friendships.

As a middle school child, when you are trying to cope with the radical hormonal changes that seem to transform your body and mind.

As a high school student, when you are on the verge of establishing an adult identity in the world, but still bound by social construct and family dynamics.

As an anxious person that has trouble calming their thoughts.

As a depressed person that has trouble staying motivated.

As an introverted person that desires social connection but has low self esteem.

As a leader trying to navigate social conflict in the workplace.

As a coworker trying to cope with a narcissistic colleague.

As someone that seems to unintentionally alienate every person they care about.

A grieving friend, a struggling spouse, an overwhelmed single mom, a drug addict, a church leader in spiritual conflict, a child labeled for their pattern of behavior.

Psychology and what we know about mental health infiltrates every part of our lives because it deals directly in the common denominator of all of these things: human development.

It does not mean it is the answer to all things. But knowing more about how our childhood experiences formed us, how we inherent genetic and observed traits of our role models, how we learn (or don't learn) coping skills, how our personalities are oriented, and how we might deceive ourselves in order to protect our insecurities, is a major component to enhancing the fulfillment and the growth of individuals and our interconnectedness to one another.

Knowledge really is power. 

Check out more about the guiding values I use to evaluate discussion around psychology education. 

Or read the articles I've published at PsychCentral.com that give basic access to tools and techniques anyone can use today to enhance their growth and development. 

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