Schools of Thought in Psychology

From structuralism to cognitivism, numerous schools of thought have emerged throughout psychology's history. Many of these theoretical outlooks have dominated the field at certain points in history. Learn more about some of the major schools of thought in psychology in the following articles and resources.

Major Schools of Thought in Psychology
Since psychology first emerged as a separate science, different schools of thought have emerged to dominate the field. Learn more about some of these major schools of thought in psychology, including psychoanalysis, behaviorism and humanism.

What is Gestalt Psychology?
Gestalt psychology was a school of thought that looked at the human mind and behavior as wholes rather than attempting to break them up into smaller parts. Learn more about this influential school of thought in psychology.

Structuralism and Functionalism
The two earliest schools of thought in psychology were structuralism and functionalism. Learn more about these two theoretical approaches to psychology.

What Is Psychoanalysis?
Psychoanalysis was created by the famed psychiatrist Sigmund Freud. This school of thought emphasized the role of childhood experience and the unconscious mind. Learn more about the psychodynamic approach to psychology.

Humanistic Psychology - The Humanistic School of Psychology
Humanistic psychology formed as a reaction to psychoanalysis and behaviorism and stressed the importance of personal choice and responsibility. Learn more about this major school of thought in psychology?s history.

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