Which of the following best defines psychology as a scientific discipline?

• A. The study of physical health and disease
• B. The study of the structure and function of the brain only
• C. The study of behavior and mental processes
• D. The study of historical events and their impact on society

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that psychology is a scientific discipline focused on studying aspects related to human and animal behavior as well as mental processes.
2. Step 2: Recognize that psychology is not limited to physical health and disease, which is more related to medicine or biology.
3. Step 3: Note that while the brain's structure and function are important in psychology, the field is broader and includes behavior and mental processes beyond just the brain.
4. Step 4: Eliminate options related to historical events and their societal impact, as these belong to disciplines like history or sociology, not psychology.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best definition of psychology is 'the study of behavior and mental processes,' as it encompasses the core focus of the field.