Experimental psychologists use science to explore the processes behind human and animal behavior.

Experimental Psychology Examines the Underpinnings of Human and Animal Behavior

Experimental psychologists use empirical research methods to explore and better understand behavior.

Understanding Experimental Psychology

Our personalities, and to some degree our life experiences, are defined by the way we behave. But what influences the way we behave in the first place? How does our behavior shape our experiences throughout our lives? 

Experimental psychologists are interested in exploring theoretical questions, often by creating a hypothesis and then setting out to prove or disprove it through experimentation. They study a wide range of behavioral topics among humans and animals, including sensation, perception, attention, memory, cognition and emotion.

Experimental Psychology Applied

Experimental psychologists use scientific methods to collect data and perform research. Often, their work builds, one study at a time, to a larger finding or conclusion. Some researchers have devoted their entire career to answering one complex research question. 

These psychologists work in a variety of settings, including universities, research centers, government agencies and private businesses. The focus of their research is as varied as the settings in which they work. Often, personal interest and educational background will influence the research questions they choose to explore. 

In a sense, all psychologists can be considered experimental psychologists since research is the foundation of the discipline, and many psychologists split their professional focus among research, patient care, teaching or program administration. Experimental psychologists, however, often devote their full attention to research — its design, execution, analysis and dissemination. 

Those focusing their careers specifically on experimental psychology contribute work across subfields. For example, they use scientific research to provide insights that improve teaching and learning, create safer workplaces and transportation systems, improve substance abuse treatment programs and promote healthy child development.

For Students

Experimental psychologists use basic and applied research to explore questions about human and animal behavior. They often use their scientific findings to provide insights that create safer workplaces and transportation systems, improve teaching and learning methods, promote healthy child development and improve substance abuse treatment programs, to list a few examples.

Resources for StudentsResources to help you pursue a career in psychology
A degree in psychology can lead to a fulfilling career that makes a difference in people’s lives.

  

Pursuing a Career in Experimental PsychologyFind out what it takes to become an experimental psychologist
Experimental psychologists use scientific methods to explore behavior in humans and animals.

For Teachers

An advanced degree in psychology is the foundation of many interesting career paths within the discipline. In addition, an understanding of the science of psychology — for example, by earning a bachelor’s degree in the subject — can help students in their careers and their lives.

Resources for TeachersExplore classroom resources
Understanding the science of psychology can help students in their careers and their lives. Psychological science is the foundation of many interesting career paths.
  

Psychology Can Take You Great PlacesLearn what it takes to pursue a career in psychology
You don’t have to look far to see the impact that psychologists make. They contribute in almost every profession, from health care and law enforcement to sport performance and space exploration.

For School Counselors

Students who are intrigued by human behavior, problem-solving and exploring theoretical questions may want to consider a career in experimental psychology. Using scientific methods to learn more about the mind and cognitive processes, experimental psychologists study topics that include sensation, perception, memory, cognition, learning, motivation, emotion and developmental processes.

Resources for CounselorsResources to help your students pursue a career in psychology
A degree in psychology can lead to a fulfilling career that makes a difference in people’s lives.

  

Pursuing a Career in Experimental PsychologyFind out what it takes to become an experimental psychologist
Experimental psychologists use scientific methods to explore behavior in humans and animals.