Which statement best reflects the scope of what psychologists study?

• A. Psychologists study behavior and mental processes, including thoughts, feelings, and actions.
• B. Psychologists study only abnormal behavior and do not examine typical development or everyday behavior.
• C. Psychologists primarily diagnose and prescribe medication for mental disorders.
• D. Psychologists only focus on how people think and feel, not on what they do.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the broad scope of psychology as a scientific discipline. Psychology is the study of both behavior (observable actions) and mental processes (internal experiences such as thoughts and feelings).
2. Step 2: Recognize that psychologists do not limit their study to abnormal behavior; they also examine typical development, everyday behavior, and a wide range of psychological phenomena.
3. Step 3: Note that while some psychologists may be involved in diagnosing mental disorders, prescribing medication is typically the role of psychiatrists, not psychologists.
4. Step 4: Remember that psychology encompasses the study of what people think, feel, and do, meaning it includes both internal mental processes and external behaviors.
5. Step 5: Based on these clarifications, identify the statement that best reflects the comprehensive nature of psychology: it studies behavior and mental processes, including thoughts, feelings, and actions.