Psychology is defined as the science of:

Appeared in: Haryana CHO -2023

Explanation

Psychology is formally defined as the science of behaviour and cognitive (mental) processes.
This definition is comprehensive, covering both overt (observable) actions and covert (internal) mental activities.
The term 'behaviour' includes any measurable action, from speaking to physiological changes.
The term 'mental processes' refers to all aspects of the mind, such as thoughts, memories, feelings, and reasoning.

Option A: This is too specific. Sensation and perception are key topics within cognitive psychology, but they do not define the entire field.
Option B: This is too narrow. It focuses primarily on clinical psychology and abnormal psychology, ignoring the vast study of normal human development, learning, and social interaction.
Option C: This describes the focus of social psychology and sociology. While related to psychology, it doesn't encompass the entire discipline, which also heavily focuses on the individual.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition of Psychology as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding that psychology studies both behaviour and mental processes is fundamental to providing holistic nursing care.
Nurses must assess a patient's observable behaviours (e.g., grimacing, restlessness) as indicators of pain, while also inquiring about their subjective mental experiences (e.g., anxiety, fear, understanding of their condition).
This dual assessment allows nurses to address both the physical manifestations of illness and the psychological needs of the patient, leading to better health outcomes.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that asks for a standard definition.
Read the stem carefully: 'Psychology is defined as the science of...'
Evaluate each option to see which one provides the most comprehensive and widely accepted definition of the entire field.
Option A ('Sensation and perception') is a sub-topic.
Option B ('Experience and mental illness') describes a sub-field (clinical psychology).
Option C ('Culture and group dynamics') describes another sub-field (social psychology).

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q8GCk5ELZBhWZxK7SJTwkM

E6 Psychology Baron Misra 5e Part 1 p. 28-30

E6 Psychology Morgan King 9e Part 1 p. 25-27

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart A (pp 1-232 of 464) p. 210-212

Practise the full Haryana CHO -2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.