Compassion is an essential tool to bring to psychology work and discussion. Not only does it encourage positive interactions and an open perspective, but it also paves the way to free and open discussions about sensitive topics. It’s easy to get carried away, however. Psychology is also a science and requires objectivity to be successful. But aren’t compassion and objectivity mutually exclusive?
Here, Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama, discusses why both are so necessary when exploring online psychology topics, as well as the steps to take to find the right balance between compassion and objectivity.
Treat Others With Kindness
Compassion means the ability to look at another person’s struggles with kindness and a genuine desire to help. In other words, it is the authentic motivation to improve someone else’s situation. It’s a valuable and necessary mindset in the field of psychology, which encounters patients describing highly personal issues. While studying psychology, make sure to be gentle, listen to others, and approach sensitive discussions with care and kindness.
Keep an Open Mind
As a psychology student, you will encounter many theories and opinions that you disagree with. When this happens, it’s necessary to keep an open mind and resist judgment. Cultivating a culture of close-mindedness is a sure-fire way to discourage open discussion.
Instead, encourage your peers to speak openly. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, listen to the answers people give, and challenge your own beliefs. If you are willing to leave your comfort zone and explore new perspectives, you’ll be better equipped for your psychology studies.
Examine Your Biases
Having a bias is a normal and natural part of life as a human. As we explore and experience the world, our brains make connections that show us how to react when we encounter something new. While natural, however, bias can lead to false assumptions that may be harmful.
In order to be objective when studying any subject – especially psychology – you need to be aware of your personal biases. If you know what your biases are, you can catch yourself when you start making assumptions that might be false.
Maintain Healthy Boundaries
Finally, while it’s important to stay compassionate and open-minded, you also need to maintain healthy boundaries. Your relationships with both peers and patients will be best if they are founded on trust. This means giving them privacy and allowing freedom to communicate as they choose. Encouraging boundaries is to also encourage open and thoughtful discussion.
Boundaries are also a healthy avenue for students, as psychology studies can address a lot of sensitive and emotional subjects. If you can’t maintain a separation between your studies and your personal life, it’s easy to get burned out. If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to take the time you need to rest and refresh.
Study Psychology Online
To get started with your own psychology studies, enroll now with Faulkner University. Our psychology program offers a well-rounded education that covers a variety of online psychology topics. What’s more, all our classes are available online, so they’re convenient and flexible to meet your education needs. Contact us to explore admission requirements, ask questions about financial aid, and get the answers you need today.