Methodological basis of psychology as applied science

The methodological basis of psychology has been the subject of debate among theorists for many years. And if in the experimental part, scientific research is still based on a theoretical basis, then in the applied work the presence of such a basis is not obvious.

The problem also consists in the fact that each psychological direction establishes its own conceptual apparatus. So the methodology of psychology in practical work is rather vague.

Let's try to figure out whether there are principles that unite different areas of practical work with people.

The main direction of any approach to providing psychological help to a person is working with life's problems. Therefore, it makes sense to consider the theoretical basis of counseling in this example.

A consulting psychologist, whatever direction he takes in his work, necessarily uses only those concepts that are clear to him. So, the methodological principles of counseling necessarily involve the definition of a life problem.

Psychologists and psychotherapists, with all the disunity of their views, agree that the life problem is first and foremost a complex emotional negative situation in which a person faces difficulties in meeting internal needs. This is manifested in the discrepancy between aspirations, desires, goals and real opportunities for achieving them.

We all are looking for a way out, a means of adversity, we are thinking about how to make life easier and easier. Relying on the methodological foundations of psychology, or rather the principle of subjectivity, one can assume that there are no single right solutions for all people. And everyone in his own way is looking for an outlet, making decisions based on his psychological characteristics. Everyone chooses an acceptable way out of the problem situation.

So, the second principle, which is used by many psychologists, is the principle of subjectivity or an individual approach to each person.

Techniques and strategies for working with people and their life problems exist as much as psychological schools.

This is because the understanding of the subject matter of psychology differs radically in different approaches. Representatives of the behavioral trend view their subject as human behavior. The currents that have arisen quite recently, called the new cultural and psychological approach, declare the soul the object of psychology. There are other points of view. So the choice of techniques of work will be determined by each approach in its own way, depending on the subject. And here it is hardly possible to find a unified basis.

For example, if we consider psychology as the science of the soul, then life problems will be perceived as an opportunity for the soul to become more perfect, and so work with them will not follow the principle of overcoming, but from the point of view of revealing new qualities through which the task can be Will decide more successfully.

Another important principle, inherent in all psychological directions, without exception, is the vision of a person in a holistic and developmental manner.

The methodological foundations of psychology indicate that the personality develops in the process of life, it is inclined not only to adaptation, but also to overcoming its own boundaries.

Therefore, the principle of development is also fundamental for working with people. Without him, any psychological activity would be meaningless.

Only because of their ability to change and develop, a person can learn to cope with life's difficulties independently or with the help of a psychologist.
Thus, we have considered some methodological foundations of psychology as a science having, first of all, applied significance.

Given these principles in work, the consultant can use a variety of methods to help people and expand the range of techniques used.