-By Timothy Lyons
The Term clinical psychology was introduced by a student of Wilhelm Wundt. You might remember that history considers Wilhelm Wunt as the father of psychology. The student, Lightner Witmer, wrote an essay in the early 1900’s. In it he coined the term as the study of individuals, by observation or experimentation, with the intention of promoting change.
Clinical psychology
The American Psychological Association provides the definition that “Clinical psychology is the psychological specialty that provides continuing and comprehensive mental and behavioral health care for individuals and families; consultation to agencies and communities; training, education and supervision; and research-based practice.” In most cases, Clinical psychology combines theory and science, in practice. In this way the clinician attempts to understand, pathology. They try to relieve behaviors that cause life problems, disability, and discomfort. The American Psychological Association furthers this by stating It is a specialty in breadth — one that is broadly inclusive of severe psychopathology — and marked by comprehensiveness and integration of knowledge and skill from a broad array of disciplines within and outside of psychology proper.
From a specialization standpoint, this psychology serves individuals and families as well as groups and communities. It deals with mental and behavioral health issues. The scope of clinical psychology can also assist with Intellectual, emotional, psychological, social and behavioral issues or any issues that a person might have that can become pathological or cause problems in their lives.
On the positive side, clinical psychology promotes personal growth, personal adjustment and self-development. A clinical psychologist uses knowledge of ones intellect, emotions, biology, psychology, social actions and behaviors to help the client in their efforts to relieve mental health problems. Clinical psychology is the application of the science of psychology. It helps to ameliorate psychological distress and pathological outcomes of behavior. It promotes well¬being, reduce stress. and improve personal development.
References
Allen, R. M. (1952). What is Clinical Psychology?. American Psychologist, 7(10), 592-593. doi:10.1037/h0053598
Classics in the History of Psychology — Witmer (1907). (n.d.). Retrieved October 30, 2016, from http://psychclassics.yorku.ca/Witmer/clinical.htm
Gleitman, H., Gross, J., & Reisberg, D. (2011). Psychology (8 ed.). New York, New York: W. W. Norton & Company.
Shakow, D. (1976). What is clinical psychology?. American Psychologist, 31(8), 553-560. doi:10.1037/0003-066X.31.8.553