What is the modern definition of psychology?

The modern definition of psychology encompasses the understanding of both human behavior and mental processes, making it a comprehensive field that examines not only how individuals behave in various situations but also the underlying thought processes, emotions, and cognitive functions that drive those behaviors. This dual focus allows for a deeper insight into the complexities of human beings and the factors influencing their actions, emotions, and thoughts.

This definition highlights the integration of various aspects of human functioning, including the impact of social and environmental factors on behavior, cognitive processes such as perception and memory, and the emotional responses individuals experience. By addressing both behavior and mental processes, psychology is positioned as a multifaceted discipline that studies individuals from both observable and experiential perspectives, which is crucial for the application in fields such as counseling, therapy, and behavioral science.