Psychology is a diverse field. Those who chose to study the topic are typically passionate about one aspect of psychology or another; they would have to be.. especially when dealing with the common ups and downs that come with pursuing their undergraduate degree. Here's a few of the more relatable instances…
1. “Such an interesting topic! Do you want to work, to like, fix kids?”
Ugh...are they broken? I don’t know how to answer that.
2. The suspense of p-values.
“Can’t we find a way to round down? Is that a thing?”
3. “But Psychology is just a social science, it’s not like a science science. “
Wow, you caught us there. And while there are a vast range of opinions on the matter, I’ll never understand this response. I’ve had so many people react this way as soon as they hear my major. I’m sorry, did I miss the part where I must have defensively stated psychology as a natural science? Because I didn’t. I’ve never looked at a Business major and said, “Wait! that’s not (fill in random academic category other than business).” Chill.
4. Cringing when people use phrases “positive” and “negative” reinforcement incorrectly.
Please don’t get mad, I’m trying not to be irritating, but, you’re so wrong.
5. “How do you feel about grad school? Isn’t that too much take on?”
I mean, if I could skip it I would...but research, diagnosis, counseling...all things that are frowned upon doing without training and a license.
6. The Bipolar Epidemic.
“My roommate gets mad sometimes out of nowhere, but then is fine after a little while. Do you think she's bipolar?"
One, I’m not a doctor, and it is entirely immoral for me to offer my perspective. You can borrow my textbook if you want, though. And while you’re at it, please read the chapter on how bipolar disorder is nothing like what you just described. Then come to terms with the fact that your roommate could just not like you very much.
7. “Wow, you’re reading my mind, right?”
Sadly, no. Psych majors are not all granted the gift of mind reading, and I’m not sure many of us would want to use it if we were.
8. Trying to articulate graduate school plans.
I’m confused beyond belief and will probably pay a lot of money to go to any program that accepts me.
9. “Are you diagnosing me?”
No!
Yes.
10. “I hope your future husband/wife makes a lot of money.”
Well, here I am, hoping they even exist, and you’re already moving on to their salary. That is a lot of pressure. Also, a variety of insults packed into one comment.
11. The history portion of each class.
Yes, Freud makes us uncomfortable and Maslow likes levels. Can we read about disorders now?
12. "Good luck finding a job.”
You too...?
