What does it mean to describe psychology as a profession?

Check these definitions of "profession."

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/profession

What kind of work do psychologists do? Mainly their professions involve varying degrees of research, teaching and application (therapy).

Describing psychology as a profession means understanding and explaining the nature and characteristics of psychology as a field of study and a career path for individuals. It involves highlighting key aspects such as education, training, work settings, roles, and responsibilities of professionals in the field.

To better understand what it means to describe psychology as a profession, you can follow these steps:

1. Research the field: Begin by gathering information about the field of psychology, its history, theoretical frameworks, and research methods. Familiarize yourself with the different branches and subfields within psychology, such as clinical psychology, counseling psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, etc.

2. Education and training requirements: Explore the education and training needed to become a professional psychologist. Understand the academic path, which typically involves completing a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, followed by a graduate degree in psychology (such as a master's or doctoral degree). Note that specific requirements may vary depending on the country and the type of psychology profession.

3. Licensing and certification: Investigate the licensing and certification requirements in your region or country. Many countries have regulatory bodies that establish standards and issue licenses or certifications to ensure that psychologists meet specific professional criteria. Learn about the process and criteria for obtaining and maintaining professional credentials.

4. Work settings and roles: Examine the various work settings where psychologists practice. They may work in private practice, hospitals, schools, research institutions, government agencies, or corporate settings. Understand the different roles and responsibilities typically associated with each setting, as well as potential career pathways within the profession.

5. Ethical guidelines and professional organizations: Explore the ethical guidelines that psychologists must follow to ensure the highest standards of professional conduct and client care. Investigate the professional organizations and associations in the field of psychology. These organizations often provide resources, support, and networking opportunities for professionals in the field.

By following these steps, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of what it means to describe psychology as a profession.