If you are fascinated with psychology and would love a career in the field but just can’t see yourself as a traditional psychologist, you might consider some alternative psychology positions. First, there are really no traditional careers in psychology because working with people can be challenging and unpredictable. Still, if you would like some fresh ideas about what to do with your psychology degree, this article might be a kick-start to an alternative psychology career.
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Adoptive Services
Agencies that help pregnant women who are not ready to become mothers find adoptive homes for their babies use psychologists as counselors and intermediaries. Giving up a child can be a heart-wrenching decision. There are many issues, such as the input or presence of the biological father, fear of doing “the wrong thing” for the baby, and other concerns. Psychologists can help women expecting a child, or one who has already delivered, deal with the issue of giving that child up for adoption. They can also help to match the baby with adoptive parents.
Social Work
People with degrees in psychology work very well in social work. The understanding they have of human behavior helps them assist clients in living self-determined and productive lives. Social workers are found in addiction centers, adult daycare facilities, correctional institutions, and facilities for the mentally ill, among other places. One in-demand career is child advocacy. Those psychologists work with children to determine what is in children’s best interest in the social or legal systems. You might even consider a dual degree in law and psychology to become a guardian-ad-litem, a legal representative of a child in foster care or other out-of-home placement.
Consumer Research
Marketing products requires a knowledge of human behavior. That is why a career in consumer research is ideal for someone with a psychology degree. According to the website lightercapital.com, consumer research is the “practice of identifying the targeted customer’s preferences, attitude, motivation, and buying behavior.” These professionals use surveys, interviews, and other tools to identify trends and behaviors that help companies create advertising campaigns and design products to meet consumer demand.
Educational Psychologist
The demand for school and career counselors is great. This field, combined with an education degree, can include not only counseling but curriculum design and even teaching. Schools need people to design materials for students, including those with developmental delays or autism. Colleges and universities must have online courses that match traditional courses in content and depth, and the industry needs people who can develop educational materials for on-the-job training.
Probation and Law Enforcement
Psychology plays a part in the legal system from the moment a person is arrested for a crime through the end of their sentence. Of course, behavioral analysts create profiles and assist police in investigating crimes. However, a background in psychology is also helpful in creating a preliminary report that may recommend probation within certain limitations or incarceration. It is also valuable in parole hearings and instituting rehabilitation classes and programs while incarcerated.
There are so many other careers that psychology majors can follow. You can visit the Best Psychology Degrees website to learn more. Whatever your interest or passion, a degree in psychology can prepare you for a decidedly “non-traditional” career in working with people.
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