What is the definition of psychology?

The definition of psychology as the scientific study of behavior and mental processes captures the breadth and depth of the field. It encompasses not only observable actions and behaviors (what individuals do) but also the internal processes such as thoughts, emotions, and motivations (what individuals think and feel). This approach establishes psychology as an empirical science grounded in research, where systematic observation and experimentation are used to understand how people, both individually and in social contexts, interact with their environment and each other.

The emphasis on both behavior and mental processes illustrates psychology's multifaceted nature, integrating various perspectives such as cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology. This foundational definition also sets the stage for the application of psychological principles across diverse areas, from mental health treatment to enhancing educational practices, thus illustrating the significant impact psychology has on society as a whole.

In contrast, options focusing narrowly on social behavior, human emotions, or societal trends do not encompass the entirety of psychological study, which includes a broader examination of both the observable and the cognitive aspects of human experience.