What could I do by studying behavior?

Question

I want to study psychology but I dont want to be a psychologist... I want to study behavior... kind of like in criminal minds but not THAT extreme

Answer 1

Studying psychology can lead you in a variety of directions. Not all psychologists are clinical psychologists (i.e., psychotherapists); experimental (non-clinical) psychologists conduct research and study behaviour. You could become a psychologist and conduct research (i.e., study behaviour).

If you are interested in studying psychology in a forensic context, you have a variety of options. For example, you could study psychology and criminology by pursuing a Bachelor degree in psychology/criminology, which could lead you many different fields (e.g., you could become a criminologist). Alternatively, with a Bachelor degree you could pursue further graduate studies in psychology, obtain a Ph.D, and become a researcher at a university, at another public or private institution, or in a government setting (to name a few). Those are just some options you might pursue. There are very many different paths you can take and careers that you can seek. However, regardless of your path/career, you would most likely start with university courses in psychology.

That said, because the study of psychology can provide you with so many options (e.g., future careers and areas of study), it might be helpful to you further pinpoint the context and setting in which you want to study behaviour. Are you interested in forensic psychology? You could be a criminologist, professor, forensic psychologist, etc.

An answer to your question also depends on where you are in your eduction. Pursuing the study of behaviour, regardless of the career, will most likely require at least a Bachelor degree in Psychology (or psychology/criminology). Again, a useful starting point might be to take psychology courses. You might want to talk to a forensic psychologist as well (given your interest in Criminal Minds, you might be interested in forensic psychology).

Also it might be worthwhile to explore some vocational guidance books that explore what to do with a psychology degree such as the following (note: I haven't read these myself, so I recommend reviewing their usefulness in a bookstore first).

'Career Paths in Psychology: Where Your Degree Can Take You' by Robert J. Sternberg

'What to Do with Your Psychology or Sociology Degree' by Princeton Review

Hope that helps.

Answer 2

Not all psychologists are therapists, many are researchers.  Go to apa.org and read about careers.  (retired IBM exec mgr/confidential labs/ psychologist/college prof)