What do I need to exel in to be a psychologist?

Question

Hi, I'm 13 nearly 14 and really want to be a psychologist when I am older, but the thing is, I don't know what qualifications I need to be one. Since I really want to become a psychologist, I want to know what to really concentrate on and to work my hardest in to be able to get the job. Please help me! Thanks for reading Laura xx

Answer 1

I'm assuming you mean like subjects and classes in school, right?

Well you need to understand biology and anatomy a lot.

Part of understanding people is knowing the parts of the brain and nervous systems and how the body and mind work together to function.

You'll have to learn about synapses and brain development and know the chemicals that are part of the nervous system also.

Basically, biology is the one science you will have to know the most about to truly understand psychology.

This may sound complicated, but being a psychologist is a lot more than just trying understand why people act and think the way they do.  It actually involves breaking down behavior to the cellular level.

Hope that helps!

Answer 2

It is really good that you are facinated about a career. You should have a degree on psychology. After you have done your GCSE your school will arrange you visits from local collages and universities which will educate you on which subjects to select. You may select psychology as a subject in your AS level but it is not necessery and you may commence at degree level too. If you visit any of the university websites and search for psychology you may find details about the courses.  

Answer 3

Now look at that. Most nearly 14 year olds don't think like this. But immerse yourself in what you want to become so when it is time to graduate, you will be neck and shoulders above the rest. What I mean by that is you will know what you want to do and what to do to accomplish your dream. Everyone else will be confused. And it's better to be confused at 13 than at 33.

Answer 4

Well Laura I really have to commend you for already knowing that you want to help others! And also for having a definitive plan for your future.

First and foremost you have to be able to be a good listener as it is paramount in Psychology. There is a very big difference in Psychology and Psychiatry though.

A Psychologist needs to excel in all classwork as it is mandatory at any college to have basic principles covered (such as math, sciences, english, and history) all of these will work together to help you listen well to others problems (from any background) and their concerns.

However the most important of these are your english classes; as you must be able to communicate yourself well to all sorts of people.

Then when you enter college you will begin courses in human behavior and social skills.

Unfortunately "Cuban" gave you ineffective direction as he gave you the basics of what a Psychiatrist would need to know. They are the ones who are able to distribute medications and diagnose conditions regarding the nervous system and brain as well as human behavior.

While it is really good to include this kind of coursework when you reach college (you may want to further your education by then); it is not required to become a Psychologist in all states.

I really hope that you follow through with this ideal as the world needs articulate caring young people such as yourself to begin to help heal our society. But just remember the first rule in Psychology...you can not help anyone who first does not want help for themselves!

Answer 5

well, a psychologist needs to understand people, you could start to be more compassionate, and try to uderstand those around you. and of course; don't flunk.

Answer 6

Hiya Laura T

You will need to pay more attention to detail, plus have a high grade in the following subjects:

Maths, English and Biology.

You must be a good listener, and be able to keep calm when others are losing it.

How does this sound so far?

A lot can happen between now and then, so, just to be sure, have a plan B.

If you need any more help, please feel free to e-mail me.

Good luck on your dream.