KEY CONCEPTS AND DEFINITION OF PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY

1. DEFINITION OF PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY

Psychology can be defined as the scientific study of the mind or the study of behavior and the functions and processes of the mind. It is the study of the mind and behavior. According to the American Psychological Association (APA). It is the study of the mind, how it works, and how it affects behavior.

The word psychology comes from two Greek words “Psyche” meaning “Mind,Spirit or Soul and another Greek word “Logia or Logo” which means the study of something. If we consider the two root words together, psychology can be viewed as the study of the mind or soul. However, the concept of mind or soul is a philosophical term that can not be defined in a definite way.

Psychology is a scientific enterprise which deals with why people think, feel and act the way they do. Psychology also studies animals. It investigate such phenomena as Learning and Memory, Sensation and Perception, Motivation and Emotion,Thinking and Language, Personality and Social Behaviour, Intelligence, Infancy and Child Development, Mental Illness Etc.

With the use of more objective scientific method, psychologist understand, explain and predict human behavior. Psychology as a science of bahaviour do not only allow people to be more successful but it can also impact their health. It helps many tackle their mental illnesses so that they can continue living their lives. Psychological studies have also aided in drug development and the ability to diagnose various diseases.

2. DEFINITION OF SOCIOLOGY/MEDICAL SOCIOLOGY

Sociology is the scientific study of human behaviour and social life. It focuses on behavioral pattern, be it rational or non rational using scientific methodology such as: observation, rationality, objectivity, interpretation.

Medical sociology is the Sociological analysis of medical organizations and institutions, the production of knowledge and selection of methods, the actions and interactions of healthcare professionals and the social or cultural (rather than clinical or bodily) effects of medical practice.

It is also concerned with relationship of social factors of health and with the application of sociological theory and research techniques to question related to health and health care system.

Furthermore, it is seen as a branch of sociology which concerns itself with all the actions and factors in illness so as to draw the sick person and his relations and medical personnel to understanding of what goes on in the provision of health care which is the goal of medicine.

Magnus (1995) described medical sociology as the scientific study of social, emotional and cultural element in human illness and human health.

Anderson (1952) defined medical sociology as the study of social factors of illness.

Medical sociology is therefore all about:

a) The interaction between the medical personnel and the client- patients.

b) The impact of traditional/scientific medication on the society.

3. DEFINITION OF ANTHROPOLOGY/ MEDICAL ANTHROPOLOGY

Anthropology is the study of the origin and development of human societies and cultures. Culture is the learned behavior of people, including their languages, belief systems, social structures, institutions, and material goods. 

MEDICAL ANTHROPOLOGY

Medical anthropology is the study of how health and illness are shaped, experienced, and understood in the context of cultural, historical, and political forces.

4. MEANING OF SOCIAL AND BEHAVIOURAL SCIENCES

The Social and Behavioral Sciences encompass a range of disciplines that examine the interactions between individuals, groups, organizations, and societies. These disciplines include: Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology and Political science. The Social and Behavioral Sciences provide valuable insights into human behavior, social relationships, and societal dynamics. 

By understanding these complexities, we can develop effective solutions to address various social, economic, and environmental challenge

5. MEANING/ TYPES OF BEHAVIOUR

This refers to any direct and observable things we do. There are different types of behaviour. They are;

1. Overt Behaviour. These are actions that can be seen directly. Example, walking, dancing, singing etc

2. Covert behaviour. All actions that are unobservable and non- measurable. They are known as mental processes that comprise our inner life as individuals that can not be experienced by others. Example, thought, emotions, sensation, belief, dream etc.

Psychologists are actively involved in studying and understanding mental processes, brain functions, and behavior. The field of psychology is considered a "Hub Science" with strong connections to the medical sciences, social sciences, and education.