Psychology (Greek: Ψυχολογία, lit. "study of the mind", from
ψυχή psykhē "breath, spirit, soul"; and -λογία, -logia "study
of") is an academic and applied discipline involving the
scientific study of human mental functions and behavior.
Occasionally, in addition or opposition to employing the
scientific method, it also relies on symbolic interpretation and
critical analysis, although these traditions have tended to be
less pronounced than in other social sciences such as sociology.
Psychologists study such phenomena as perception, cognition,
emotion, personality, behavior and interpersonal relationships.
Some, especially depth psychologists, also study the unconscious
mind. Psychological knowledge is applied to various spheres of
human activity, including issues related to everyday life—such
as family, education and employment—and to the treatment of
mental health problems. Psychologists attempt to understand the
role of mental functions in individual and social behavior,
while also exploring the underlying p