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101 Examples of Dissertation Research Topics for Psychology Students

Students looking for psychology dissertation topic ideas

The journey of a psychology student culminates in the all but dissertation stage and the challenging task of selecting a dissertation topic . The decision you make at this point will set the stage for your academic and professional trajectory.

This momentous project is not just a rite of passage but an opportunity to delve deeply into a niche area of interest, contribute to a body of knowledge, and possibly even ignite a career-long pursuit. With the vast expanse of psychology stretching from the neural synapses of the brain to the complex social interactions of communities, the challenge lies not in finding a topic, but in narrowing down the multitude of possibilities!

In this article, we present an expansive list of dissertation topics for psychology students who are in the process of choosing a good dissertation topic .

The ideas provided are designed to encourage exploration of both traditional and avant-garde topics, reflecting the current trends and enduring questions that shape the evolving landscape of psychological research. From the psychological impacts of digital detox to the cognitive rehabilitation techniques for stroke survivors, these topics are designed to accommodate various interests and academic pursuits. They cater not only to a comprehensive academic challenge but also to the practical implications that such research can have on individuals, systems, and societies.

As you take a look at these suggestions, it’s important that you consider not only what interests you but also what excites you. The best dissertation topic is one that you can commit to with passion and curiosity, one that promises a journey of discovery replete with challenges and rewards.

Before we present the list of dissertation ideas for psychology students, let’s take a look at what makes a good dissertation research topic.

What Makes a Good Dissertation Research Topic for Psychology Students?

A good psychology research topic should meet several key criteria to ensure it is valuable, feasible, and has the potential to contribute to the field. Here’s an overview of the characteristics that make a research topic stand out:

  • Relevance : The topic should address current issues or gaps in the field of psychology. It needs to be pertinent to contemporary debates, practices, or policies. Relevance also means that the research could have practical applications or implications, potentially informing practitioners, policymakers, or the general public.
  • Originality : A good research topic brings a new perspective to a known issue or explores an understudied area. The aim is to contribute original knowledge or insights rather than replicating past studies without adding substantial value.
  • Specificity : Broad topics can be overwhelming and impractical to tackle within the constraints of a typical research timeline and budget. A well-defined and focused research question allows for a more thorough and in-depth study.
  • Clarity : The topic should be framed in a way that is understandable and clear. This means avoiding jargon when unnecessary and defining key terms. A clearly articulated research question guides the methodology and helps maintain focus throughout the project.
  • Feasibility : This involves considering the researcher’s access to subjects, resources, and data. The research should be achievable within the given time frame and with available resources. Feasibility also concerns the ethical considerations and approval processes required for conducting research.
  • Interest : A researcher’s personal interest and passion for a topic can significantly influence the quality of the research. It’s beneficial if the topic resonates with the researcher’s own scholarly interests and curiosities.
  • Scope for Scientific Method : Good psychology research topics should allow for systematic investigation through accepted scientific methods. This includes the potential for hypothesis testing, operationalization of variables, and the use of statistical analysis to draw conclusions.
  • Ethical Soundness : Psychology research often involves human subjects, which necessitates careful ethical consideration. A good topic should conform to ethical standards, ensuring the privacy, consent, and welfare of participants.
  • Implications : Lastly, a good research topic should have clear theoretical, practical, or clinical implications. It should contribute to a greater understanding of the human mind and behavior, potentially leading to better psychological interventions or therapies.

While selecting a research topic for your dissertation is important, you should never overlook the importance of the writing and editing process. Dissertation proofreading services can help you refine your final draft and ensure it presents you in the best possible light.

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101 Psychology Dissertation Ideas

  • The Role of Social Media in Adolescent Mental Health: Investigate how different levels of social media use affect mood disorders in adolescents.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Depression: Analyze the efficacy of CBT interventions in treating depression among various age groups.
  • Neuroplasticity and Rehabilitation After Brain Injuries: Study how different rehabilitation techniques can affect the brain’s plasticity and recovery trajectory post-injury.
  • The Psychology of Pandemics: Explore the long-term psychological impact of pandemics on different populations, focusing on coping mechanisms and resilience.
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder in Adulthood: Examine the challenges and support systems available for adults with autism, including employment, social relationships, and healthcare.
  • Sleep Patterns and Academic Performance: Investigate the correlation between sleep quality and academic success in college students.
  • The Impact of Parenting Styles on Child Development: Analyze how different parenting styles affect a child’s emotional, social, and cognitive development.
  • Workplace Psychology and Employee Well-being: Explore the effects of workplace culture on mental health and job satisfaction.
  • Memory and Aging: Study the patterns of cognitive decline in memory with aging and the effectiveness of interventions to slow down this process.
  • The Influence of Cultural Background on Psychological Treatment Outcomes: Research how cultural beliefs and practices affect the efficacy of psychological treatments for mental health issues.
  • Psychological Resilience in First Responders: Investigate the coping strategies used by first responders to manage stress and trauma-related to their line of work.
  • The Effect of Nature on Mental Health: Examine how regular exposure to natural environments influences psychological well-being and stress levels.
  • Intergenerational Trauma and Healing: Study patterns of trauma transmission in families and communities and the effectiveness of interventions aimed at breaking these cycles.
  • The Psychology of Fake News: Explore the cognitive biases that contribute to the belief in and spread of misinformation, and strategies for critical thinking promotion.
  • Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Chronic Pain: Evaluate the effectiveness of mindfulness meditation practices in managing chronic pain and improving quality of life.
  • Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Grief and Mourning: Research how different cultures process and express grief and the implications for counseling practices.
  • The Impact of Bilingualism on Cognitive Development: Investigate how learning and using multiple languages from an early age affects cognitive abilities and neural plasticity.
  • Social Isolation and Cognitive Function in the Elderly: Examine the long-term cognitive effects of social isolation in senior populations and potential interventions.
  • Attachment Styles and Romantic Relationships: Study how early attachment patterns influence adult romantic relationships, including partner selection and relationship satisfaction.
  • Cyberpsychology and Identity Formation: Investigate how online environments and social networks contribute to or disrupt the process of identity formation in adolescents and young adults.
  • Emotional Regulation in High-Stress Professions: Study strategies and their effectiveness in managing emotional responses in professions such as surgery, law enforcement, or air traffic control.
  • Virtual Reality as a Tool for Phobia Treatment: Explore the use of VR environments in the systematic desensitization of individuals with specific phobias.
  • Influence of Dietary Patterns on Children’s Behavioral Disorders: Investigate the relationship between nutritional choices and behavioral outcomes in children with ADHD or autism spectrum disorders.
  • Psychological Impacts of Climate Change: Examine the effects of climate change on mental health, including anxiety, depression, and feelings of loss or grief.
  • The Role of Art Therapy in Treating PTSD: Evaluate the efficacy of art therapy interventions for veterans or victims of violence suffering from PTSD.
  • Gender Identity Development in Adolescence: Research the factors that influence gender identity and expression during the critical developmental stage of adolescence.
  • Cognitive Dissonance and Consumer Behavior: Study how cognitive dissonance affects purchasing decisions and brand loyalty in the retail sector.
  • Psychology of Pain Management: Investigate the role of psychological factors in the perception of pain and the effectiveness of psychological pain management techniques compared to pharmacological treatments.
  • Social Perception in Online vs. Face-to-Face Interactions: Compare the accuracy of social perception and formation of first impressions in online settings versus in-person encounters.
  • The Impact of Social Support on Recovery from Substance Abuse: Explore how different types and sources of social support contribute to the recovery process from drug and alcohol addiction.
  • Effects of Microaggressions on Workplace Performance: Investigate how subtle forms of discrimination impact employees’ job satisfaction and productivity.
  • The Psychology of Financial Decision-Making in Young Adults: Explore how psychological factors influence financial literacy and decision-making in the transition to adulthood.
  • The Role of Pet Ownership in Managing Chronic Mental Illness: Examine the therapeutic benefits of pet ownership for individuals with chronic mental health conditions.
  • Mindfulness Interventions in Elementary Education: Study the effects of mindfulness practices on attention and emotional regulation in young children.
  • Narrative Identity and Life Transitions: Analyze how personal storytelling and narrative identity evolve during major life transitions, such as retirement or career change.
  • Cultural Competence in Psychotherapy: Evaluate the importance of cultural competence in therapeutic practices and client outcomes.
  • Psychological Impact of Body Image Portrayed in Social Media: Explore the effects of social media on body image dissatisfaction and the development of eating disorders.
  • Eco-Anxiety and Environmental Activism: Examine the psychological effects of climate change concerns on environmental activism behaviors.
  • Psychological Processes in Extreme Sports: Study risk assessment, decision-making, and flow states in athletes who participate in extreme sports.
  • The Effect of Music Therapy on Cognitive Decline in Dementia Patients: Research the impact of music therapy sessions on the progression of cognitive symptoms in dementia.
  • Social Cognition in Virtual Teams: Evaluate how individuals understand and operate within teams that interact exclusively through digital means.
  • Attachment Patterns and Social Media Usage: Investigate the connection between attachment styles and usage patterns of social media platforms.
  • Psychological Safety and Learning in Academic Settings: Explore the concept of psychological safety and its impact on students’ willingness to engage in learning activities.
  • Humor and Coping Mechanisms in Stressful Occupations: Analyze the role of humor as a coping strategy for professionals in high-stress fields like emergency medicine.
  • Impact of Sleep Hygiene Education on Student Performance: Evaluate the effectiveness of sleep education programs in improving the sleep quality and academic performance of university students.
  • Color Psychology in Marketing and Branding: Study how color influences consumer perceptions and behaviors towards products and brands.
  • The Role of Psychological Flexibility in Chronic Pain Management: Explore how acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) can aid individuals with chronic pain in improving their quality of life.
  • Cyberbullying and Self-esteem in Adolescents: Examine the long-term effects of cyberbullying on self-esteem and identity formation during adolescence.
  • Emotional Intelligence and Conflict Resolution: Investigate how emotional intelligence skills facilitate conflict resolution in personal and professional relationships.
  • Digital Detox and Psychological Well-Being: Examine the psychological effects of taking regular breaks from digital devices.
  • Stress Resilience in Space Exploration: Study psychological resilience strategies for astronauts during long-duration space missions.
  • Language Acquisition in Mixed-Language Households: Explore how children in bilingual homes acquire and separate languages cognitively.
  • The Role of Play in Child Development: Investigate different play therapies and their impact on developmental disorders in children.
  • Implicit Bias and Decision Making in Jury Deliberations: Examine how implicit biases can influence the decision-making process in legal settings.
  • Cognitive Effects of Chronic Sleep Deprivation: Research the long-term cognitive impacts of chronic sleep deprivation in adults.
  • The Psychology of Superstitions in Sports: Study the role and impact of superstitious behaviors on athletes’ performance.
  • The Mental Health Effects of Urban vs. Rural Living: Compare the prevalence and types of mental health issues in urban versus rural populations.
  • Psychological Outcomes of Genetic Testing: Explore the emotional and psychological impact of undergoing genetic testing for diseases.
  • Intergenerational Effects of Historical Trauma: Investigate the psychological effects across generations within communities that have experienced historical trauma.
  • The Impact of Social Comparisons on Self-Esteem: Examine how individuals’ self-esteem is affected by comparisons made on social media platforms.
  • Emotion Recognition and AI Interactions: Study how humans perceive and react to emotional expressions by artificial intelligences and robots.
  • Personality Development in Space Colonies: Speculate on how living in space colonies might affect personality development and social dynamics.
  • The Effect of Parental Leave on Child Psychological Development: Research the long-term effects of various lengths and types of parental leave on children.
  • Sensory Processing Disorders and Educational Outcomes: Examine the impact of sensory processing disorders on children’s educational achievements.
  • The Influence of Scent on Memory Recall: Explore the connection between olfactory cues and the accuracy or vividness of memory recall.
  • Peer Influence on Risky Behavior in Adolescence: Analyze how peer groups can impact the decision-making process in teenagers regarding risky behaviors.
  • The Effect of Minimalism on Mental Health: Study the psychological impact of adopting a minimalist lifestyle in a consumer-driven society.
  • Psychological Mechanisms of Radicalization: Investigate the cognitive and emotional pathways that lead individuals to adopt radical ideologies.
  • Multitasking and Cognitive Load: Investigate the limits of cognitive load and its impact on multitasking efficiency.
  • Psychological Effects of Long-Term Spaceflight: Explore the mental challenges astronauts face during extended missions.
  • Therapeutic Effects of Creative Writing: Study how creative writing can be used as a therapeutic tool for emotional expression.
  • Psychology of Religious Extremism: Examine the factors that contribute to religious extremism from a psychological perspective.
  • Mental Health Implications of Climate Migration: Research the psychological impact of relocating due to climate change.
  • Social Psychology of Urbanization: Explore how urban living influences social behavior and community dynamics.
  • Gestures and Language Development in Children: Investigate the role of gestural communication in early language acquisition.
  • Technology Addiction and Family Dynamics: Study the impact of technology addiction on interpersonal relationships within families.
  • Psychology of Solitude: Examine the effects of solitude on mental health and personal growth.
  • Cognitive Rehabilitation Techniques for Stroke Survivors: Explore effective cognitive rehabilitation methods for post-stroke recovery.
  • Impact of Prenatal Exposure to Music on Infant Development: Research the long-term developmental effects of prenatal music exposure.
  • Psychological Impacts of Participatory Art: Study how engagement with participatory art can affect psychological well-being.
  • Neuroethics of Brain-Computer Interfaces: Delve into the ethical implications of using BCIs in neurology and psychiatry.
  • Empathy Development in Virtual Reality Training: Investigate how VR can be used to enhance empathy in professional training programs.
  • Social Media and Collective Memory Formation: Examine how social media platforms influence the formation of collective memories.
  • Psychological Aspects of Cosmetic Surgery: Research the motivations and outcomes of cosmetic surgery from a psychological standpoint.
  • Personality Traits and Online Dating Success: Analyze how different personality traits affect success in online dating.
  • Psychological Strategies in Competitive Esports: Study the mental techniques used by esports players to enhance performance.
  • Attachment Security and Pet Ownership: Explore the connection between attachment styles and the bond with pets.
  • Psychological Effects of Autonomous Vehicles: Investigate how trust and control issues impact the acceptance of self-driving cars.
  • Mental Health Services in Rural Communities: Examine the challenges and effectiveness of delivering mental health care in rural areas.
  • Cross-Cultural Communication in Global Teams: Research the psychological barriers and facilitators of communication in international teams.
  • Psychology of Sustainable Behavior: Study the motivators and deterrents of engaging in environmentally sustainable behaviors.
  • Impact of Witnessing Parental Conflict on Children: Investigate the long-term effects of exposure to parental conflict during childhood.
  • Sleep Disorders and Emotional Regulation: Examine the relationship between sleep quality and the ability to regulate emotions.
  • Trauma-Informed Practices in Education: Explore the implementation and outcomes of trauma-informed approaches in schools.
  • Psychology of Menu Design: Analyze how menu layout and choice architecture influence dining decisions.
  • Motivational Factors in Crowdfunding: Investigate what psychological factors motivate people to contribute to crowdfunding campaigns.
  • Perception of Time in Different Cultures: Research how the cultural background affects the perception and value of time.
  • Psychological Resilience in Extreme Athletes: Study the mental toughness and resilience strategies of athletes in extreme sports.
  • Influence of Indoor Plants on Mood and Productivity: Explore the psychological benefits of having plants in indoor workspaces.

Each of these topics has a broad range of literature to draw from and the potential to contribute new knowledge or insights to the field of psychology. It’s important to refine these ideas further to create a specific, researchable question that can be addressed within the scope of a dissertation.

80 fascinating psychology research questions for your next project

Last updated

15 February 2024

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Psychology research is essential for furthering our understanding of human behavior and improving the diagnosis and treatment of psychological conditions.

When psychologists know more about how different social and cultural factors influence how humans act, think, and feel, they can recommend improvements to practices in areas such as education, sport, healthcare, and law enforcement.

Below, you will find 80 research question examples across 16 branches of psychology. First, though, let’s look at some tips to help you select a suitable research topic.

  • How to choose a good psychology research topic

Psychology has many branches that break down further into topics. Choosing a topic for your psychology research paper can be daunting because there are so many to choose from. It’s an important choice, as the topic you select will open up a range of questions to explore.

The tips below can help you find a psychology research topic that suits your skills and interests.

Tip #1: Select a topic that interests you

Passion and interest should fuel every research project. A topic that fascinates you will most likely interest others as well. Think about the questions you and others might have and decide on the issues that matter most. Draw on your own interests, but also keep your research topical and relevant to others.

Don’t limit yourself to a topic that you already know about. Instead, choose one that will make you want to know more and dig deeper. This will keep you motivated and excited about your research.

Tip #2: Choose a topic with a manageable scope

If your topic is too broad, you can get overwhelmed by the amount of information available and have trouble maintaining focus. On the other hand, you may find it difficult to find enough information if you choose a topic that is too narrow.

To determine if the topic is too broad or too narrow, start researching as early as possible. If you find there’s an overwhelming amount of research material, you’ll probably need to narrow the topic down. For example, instead of researching the general population, it might be easier to focus on a specific age group. Ask yourself what area of the general topic interests you most and focus on that.

If your scope is too narrow, try to generalize or focus on a larger related topic. Expand your search criteria or select additional databases for information. Consider if the topic is too new to have much information published on it as well.

Tip #3: Select a topic that will produce useful and relevant insights

Doing some preliminary research will reveal any existing research on the topic. If there is existing research, will you be able to produce new insights? You might need to focus on a different area or see if the existing research has limitations that you can overcome.

Bear in mind that finding new information from which to draw fresh insights may be impossible if your topic has been over-researched.

You’ll also need to consider whether your topic is relevant to current trends and needs. For example, researching psychology topics related to social media use may be highly relevant today.

  • 80 psychology research topics and questions

Psychology is a broad subject with many branches and potential areas of study. Here are some of them:

Developmental

Personality

Experimental

Organizational

Educational

Neuropsychology

Controversial topics

Below we offer some suggestions on research topics and questions that can get you started. Keep in mind that these are not all-inclusive but should be personalized to fit the theme of your paper.

Social psychology research topics and questions

Social psychology has roots as far back as the 18th century. In simple terms, it’s the study of how behavior is influenced by the presence and behavior of others. It is the science of finding out who we are, who we think we are, and how our perceptions affect ourselves and others. It looks at personalities, relationships, and group behavior.

Here are some potential research questions and paper titles for this topic:

How does social media use impact perceptions of body image in male adolescents?

2. Is childhood bullying a risk factor for social anxiety in adults?

Is homophobia in individuals caused by genetic or environmental factors?

What is the most important psychological predictor of a person’s willingness to donate to charity?

Does a person’s height impact how other people perceive them? If so, how?

Cognitive psychology research questions

Cognitive psychology is the branch that focuses on the interactions of thinking, emotion, creativity, and problem-solving. It also explores the reasons humans think the way they do.

This topic involves exploring how people think by measuring intelligence, thoughts, and cognition. 

Here are some research question ideas:

6. Is there a link between chronic stress and memory function?

7. Can certain kinds of music trigger memories in people with memory loss?

8. Do remote meetings impact the efficacy of team decision-making?

9. Do word games and puzzles slow cognitive decline in adults over the age of 80?

10. Does watching television impact a child’s reading ability?

Developmental psychology research questions

Developmental psychology is the study of how humans grow and change over their lifespan. It usually focuses on the social, emotional, and physical development of babies and children, though it can apply to people of all ages. Developmental psychology is important for understanding how we learn, mature, and adapt to changes.

Here are some questions that might inspire your research:

11. Does grief accelerate the aging process?

12. How do parent–child attachment patterns influence the development of emotion regulation in teenagers?

13. Does bilingualism affect cognitive decline in adults over the age of 70?

14. How does the transition to adulthood impact decision-making abilities

15. How does early exposure to music impact mental health and well-being in school-aged children?

Personality psychology research questions

Personality psychology studies personalities, how they develop, their structures, and the processes that define them. It looks at intelligence, disposition, moral beliefs, thoughts, and reactions.

The goal of this branch of psychology is to scientifically interpret the way personality patterns manifest into an individual’s behaviors. Here are some example research questions:

16. Nature vs. nurture: Which impacts personality development the most?

17. The role of genetics on personality: Does an adopted child take on their biological parents’ personality traits?

18. How do personality traits influence leadership styles and effectiveness in organizational settings?

19. Is there a relationship between an individual’s personality and mental health?

20. Can a chronic illness affect your personality?

Abnormal psychology research questions

As the name suggests, abnormal psychology is a branch that focuses on abnormal behavior and psychopathology (the scientific study of mental illness or disorders).

Abnormal behavior can be challenging to define. Who decides what is “normal”? As such, psychologists in this area focus on the level of distress that certain behaviors may cause, although this typically involves studying mental health conditions such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and phobias.

Here are some questions to consider:

21. How does technology impact the development of social anxiety disorder?

22. What are the factors behind the rising incidence of eating disorders in adolescents?

23. Are mindfulness-based interventions effective in the treatment of PTSD?

24. Is there a connection between depression and gambling addiction?

25. Can physical trauma cause psychopathy?

Clinical psychology research questions

Clinical psychology deals with assessing and treating mental illness or abnormal or psychiatric behaviors. It differs from abnormal psychology in that it focuses more on treatments and clinical aspects, while abnormal psychology is more behavioral focused.

This is a specialty area that provides care and treatment for complex mental health conditions. This can include treatment, not only for individuals but for couples, families, and other groups. Clinical psychology also supports communities, conducts research, and offers training to promote mental health. This category is very broad, so there are lots of topics to explore.

Below are some example research questions to consider:

26. Do criminals require more specific therapies or interventions?

27. How effective are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in treating mental health disorders?

28. Are there any disadvantages to humanistic therapy?

29. Can group therapy be more beneficial than one-on-one therapy sessions?

30. What are the factors to consider when selecting the right treatment plan for patients with anxiety?

Experimental psychology research questions

Experimental psychology deals with studies that can prove or disprove a hypothesis. Psychologists in this field use scientific methods to collect data on basic psychological processes such as memory, cognition, and learning. They use this data to test the whys and hows of behavior and how outside factors influence its creation.

Areas of interest in this branch relate to perception, memory, emotion, and sensation. The below are example questions that could inspire your own research:

31. Do male or female parents/carers have a more calming influence on children?

32. Will your preference for a genre of music increase the more you listen to it?

33. What are the psychological effects of posting on social media vs. not posting?

34. How is productivity affected by social connection?

35. Is cheating contagious?

Organizational psychology research questions

Organizational psychology studies human behavior in the workplace. It is most frequently used to evaluate an employee, group, or a company’s organizational dynamics. Researchers aim to isolate issues and identify solutions.

This area of study can be beneficial to both employees and employers since the goal is to improve the overall work environment and experience. Researchers apply psychological principles and findings to recommend improvements in performance, communication, job satisfaction, and safety. 

Some potential research questions include the following:

36. How do different leadership styles affect employee morale?

37. Do longer lunch breaks boost employee productivity?

38. Is gender an antecedent to workplace stress?

39. What is the most effective way to promote work–life balance among employees?

40. How do different organizational structures impact the effectiveness of communication, decision-making, and productivity?

Forensic psychology research questions

Some questions to consider exploring in this branch of psychology are:

41. How does incarceration affect mental health?

42. Is childhood trauma a driver for criminal behavior during adulthood?

43. Are people with mental health conditions more likely to be victims of crimes?

44. What are the drivers of false memories, and how do they impact the justice system?

45. Is the media responsible for copycat crimes?

Educational psychology research questions

Educational psychology studies children in an educational setting. It covers topics like teaching methods, aptitude assessment, self-motivation, technology, and parental involvement.

Research in this field of psychology is vital for understanding and optimizing learning processes. It informs educators about cognitive development, learning styles, and effective teaching strategies.

Here are some example research questions:

46. Are different teaching styles more beneficial for children at different times of the day?

47. Can listening to classical music regularly increase a student’s test scores?

48. Is there a connection between sugar consumption and knowledge retention in students?

49. Does sleep duration and quality impact academic performance?

50. Does daily meditation at school influence students’ academic performance and mental health?

Sports psychology research question examples

Sport psychology aims to optimize physical performance and well-being in athletes by using cognitive and behavioral practices and interventions. Some methods include counseling, training, and clinical interventions.

Research in this area is important because it can improve team and individual performance, resilience, motivation, confidence, and overall well-being

Here are some research question ideas for you to consider:

51. How can a famous coach affect a team’s performance?

52. How can athletes control negative emotions in violent or high-contact sports?

53. How does using social media impact an athlete’s performance and well-being?

54. Can psychological interventions help with injury rehabilitation?

55. How can mindfulness practices boost sports performance?

Cultural psychology research question examples

The premise of this branch of psychology is that mind and culture are inseparable. In other words, people are shaped by their cultures, and their cultures are shaped by them. This can be a complex interaction.

Cultural psychology is vital as it explores how cultural context shapes individuals’ thoughts, behaviors, and perceptions. It provides insights into diverse perspectives, promoting cross-cultural understanding and reducing biases.

Here are some ideas that you might consider researching:

56. Are there cultural differences in how people perceive and deal with pain?

57. Are different cultures at increased risk of developing mental health conditions?

58. Are there cultural differences in coping strategies for stress?

59. Do our different cultures shape our personalities?

60. How does multi-generational culture influence family values and structure?

Health psychology research question examples

Health psychology is a crucial field of study. Understanding how psychological factors influence health behaviors, adherence to medical treatments, and overall wellness enables health experts to develop effective interventions and preventive measures, ultimately improving health outcomes.

Health psychology also aids in managing stress, promoting healthy behaviors, and optimizing mental health, fostering a holistic approach to well-being.

Here are five ideas to inspire research in this field:

61. How can health psychology interventions improve lifestyle behaviors to prevent cardiovascular diseases?

62. What role do social norms play in vaping among adolescents?

63. What role do personality traits play in the development and management of chronic pain conditions?

64. How do cultural beliefs and attitudes influence health-seeking behaviors in diverse populations?

65. What are the psychological factors influencing the adherence to preventive health behaviors, such as vaccination and regular screenings?

Neuropsychology research paper question examples

Neuropsychology research explores how a person’s cognition and behavior are related to their brain and nervous system. Researchers aim to advance the diagnosis and treatment of behavioral and cognitive effects of neurological disorders.

Researchers may work with children facing learning or developmental challenges, or with adults with declining cognitive abilities. They may also focus on injuries or illnesses of the brain, such as traumatic brain injuries, to determine the effect on cognitive and behavioral functions.

Neuropsychology informs diagnosis and treatment strategies for conditions such as dementia, traumatic brain injuries, and psychiatric disorders. Understanding the neural basis of behavior enhances our ability to optimize cognitive functioning, rehabilitate people with brain injuries, and improve patient care.

Here are some example research questions to consider:

66. How do neurotransmitter imbalances in specific brain regions contribute to mood disorders such as depression?

67. How can a traumatic brain injury affect memory?

68. What neural processes underlie attention deficits in people with ADHD?

69. Do medications affect the brain differently after a traumatic brain injury?

70. What are the behavioral effects of prolonged brain swelling?

Psychology of religion research question examples

The psychology of religion is a field that studies the interplay between belief systems, spirituality, and mental well-being. It explores the application of the psychological methods and interpretive frameworks of religious traditions and how they relate to both religious and non-religious people.

Psychology of religion research contributes to a holistic understanding of human experiences. It fosters cultural competence and guides therapeutic approaches that respect diverse spiritual beliefs.

Here are some example research questions in this field:

71. What impact does a religious upbringing have on a child’s self-esteem?

72. How do religious beliefs shape decision-making and perceptions of morality?

73. What is the impact of religious indoctrination?

74. Is there correlation between religious and mindfulness practices?

75. How does religious affiliation impact attitudes towards mental health treatment and help-seeking behaviors?

Controversial topics in psychology research question examples

Some psychology topics don’t fit into any of the subcategories above, but they may still be worthwhile topics to consider. These topics are the ones that spark interest, conversation, debate, and disagreement. They are often inspired by current issues and assess the validity of older research.

Consider some of these research question examples:

76. How does the rise in on-screen violence impact behavior in adolescents.

77. Should access to social media platforms be restricted in children under the age of 12 to improve mental health?

78. Are prescription mental health medications over-prescribed in older adults? If so, what are the effects of this?

79. Cognitive biases in AI: what are the implications for decision-making?

80. What are the psychological and ethical implications of using virtual reality in exposure therapy for treating trauma-related conditions?

  • Inspiration for your next psychology research project

You can choose from a diverse range of research questions that intersect and overlap across various specialties.

From cognitive psychology to clinical studies, each inquiry contributes to a deeper understanding of the human mind and behavior. Importantly, the relevance of these questions transcends individual disciplines, as many findings offer insights applicable across multiple areas of study.

As health trends evolve and societal needs shift, new topics emerge, fueling continual exploration and discovery. Diving into this ever-changing and expanding area of study enables you to navigate the complexities of the human experience and pave the way for innovative solutions to the challenges of tomorrow.

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50+ Research Topics for Psychology Papers

How to Find Psychology Research Topics for Your Student Paper

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

psychology dissertation question ideas

Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital.

psychology dissertation question ideas

  • Specific Branches of Psychology
  • Topics Involving a Disorder or Type of Therapy
  • Human Cognition
  • Human Development
  • Critique of Publications
  • Famous Experiments
  • Historical Figures
  • Specific Careers
  • Case Studies
  • Literature Reviews
  • Your Own Study/Experiment

Are you searching for a great topic for your psychology paper ? Sometimes it seems like coming up with topics of psychology research is more challenging than the actual research and writing. Fortunately, there are plenty of great places to find inspiration and the following list contains just a few ideas to help get you started.

Finding a solid topic is one of the most important steps when writing any type of paper. It can be particularly important when you are writing a psychology research paper or essay. Psychology is such a broad topic, so you want to find a topic that allows you to adequately cover the subject without becoming overwhelmed with information.

I can always tell when a student really cares about the topic they chose; it comes through in the writing. My advice is to choose a topic that genuinely interests you, so you’ll be more motivated to do thorough research.

In some cases, such as in a general psychology class, you might have the option to select any topic from within psychology's broad reach. Other instances, such as in an  abnormal psychology  course, might require you to write your paper on a specific subject such as a psychological disorder.

As you begin your search for a topic for your psychology paper, it is first important to consider the guidelines established by your instructor.

Research Topics Within Specific Branches of Psychology

The key to selecting a good topic for your psychology paper is to select something that is narrow enough to allow you to really focus on the subject, but not so narrow that it is difficult to find sources or information to write about.

One approach is to narrow your focus down to a subject within a specific branch of psychology. For example, you might start by deciding that you want to write a paper on some sort of social psychology topic. Next, you might narrow your focus down to how persuasion can be used to influence behavior .

Other social psychology topics you might consider include:

  • Prejudice and discrimination (i.e., homophobia, sexism, racism)
  • Social cognition
  • Person perception
  • Social control and cults
  • Persuasion, propaganda, and marketing
  • Attraction, romance, and love
  • Nonverbal communication
  • Prosocial behavior

Psychology Research Topics Involving a Disorder or Type of Therapy

Exploring a psychological disorder or a specific treatment modality can also be a good topic for a psychology paper. Some potential abnormal psychology topics include specific psychological disorders or particular treatment modalities, including:

  • Eating disorders
  • Borderline personality disorder
  • Seasonal affective disorder
  • Schizophrenia
  • Antisocial personality disorder
  • Profile a  type of therapy  (i.e., cognitive-behavioral therapy, group therapy, psychoanalytic therapy)

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Human Cognition

Some of the possible topics you might explore in this area include thinking, language, intelligence, and decision-making. Other ideas might include:

  • False memories
  • Speech disorders
  • Problem-solving

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Human Development

In this area, you might opt to focus on issues pertinent to  early childhood  such as language development, social learning, or childhood attachment or you might instead opt to concentrate on issues that affect older adults such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Some other topics you might consider include:

  • Language acquisition
  • Media violence and children
  • Learning disabilities
  • Gender roles
  • Child abuse
  • Prenatal development
  • Parenting styles
  • Aspects of the aging process

Do a Critique of Publications Involving Psychology Research Topics

One option is to consider writing a critique paper of a published psychology book or academic journal article. For example, you might write a critical analysis of Sigmund Freud's Interpretation of Dreams or you might evaluate a more recent book such as Philip Zimbardo's  The Lucifer Effect: Understanding How Good People Turn Evil .

Professional and academic journals are also great places to find materials for a critique paper. Browse through the collection at your university library to find titles devoted to the subject that you are most interested in, then look through recent articles until you find one that grabs your attention.

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Famous Experiments

There have been many fascinating and groundbreaking experiments throughout the history of psychology, providing ample material for students looking for an interesting term paper topic. In your paper, you might choose to summarize the experiment, analyze the ethics of the research, or evaluate the implications of the study. Possible experiments that you might consider include:

  • The Milgram Obedience Experiment
  • The Stanford Prison Experiment
  • The Little Albert Experiment
  • Pavlov's Conditioning Experiments
  • The Asch Conformity Experiment
  • Harlow's Rhesus Monkey Experiments

Topics of Psychology Research About Historical Figures

One of the simplest ways to find a great topic is to choose an interesting person in the  history of psychology  and write a paper about them. Your paper might focus on many different elements of the individual's life, such as their biography, professional history, theories, or influence on psychology.

While this type of paper may be historical in nature, there is no need for this assignment to be dry or boring. Psychology is full of fascinating figures rife with intriguing stories and anecdotes. Consider such famous individuals as Sigmund Freud, B.F. Skinner, Harry Harlow, or one of the many other  eminent psychologists .

Psychology Research Topics About a Specific Career

​Another possible topic, depending on the course in which you are enrolled, is to write about specific career paths within the  field of psychology . This type of paper is especially appropriate if you are exploring different subtopics or considering which area interests you the most.

In your paper, you might opt to explore the typical duties of a psychologist, how much people working in these fields typically earn, and the different employment options that are available.

Topics of Psychology Research Involving Case Studies

One potentially interesting idea is to write a  psychology case study  of a particular individual or group of people. In this type of paper, you will provide an in-depth analysis of your subject, including a thorough biography.

Generally, you will also assess the person, often using a major psychological theory such as  Piaget's stages of cognitive development  or  Erikson's eight-stage theory of human development . It is also important to note that your paper doesn't necessarily have to be about someone you know personally.

In fact, many professors encourage students to write case studies on historical figures or fictional characters from books, television programs, or films.

Psychology Research Topics Involving Literature Reviews

Another possibility that would work well for a number of psychology courses is to do a literature review of a specific topic within psychology. A literature review involves finding a variety of sources on a particular subject, then summarizing and reporting on what these sources have to say about the topic.

Literature reviews are generally found in the  introduction  of journal articles and other  psychology papers , but this type of analysis also works well for a full-scale psychology term paper.

Topics of Psychology Research Based on Your Own Study or Experiment

Many psychology courses require students to design an actual psychological study or perform some type of experiment. In some cases, students simply devise the study and then imagine the possible results that might occur. In other situations, you may actually have the opportunity to collect data, analyze your findings, and write up your results.

Finding a topic for your study can be difficult, but there are plenty of great ways to come up with intriguing ideas. Start by considering your own interests as well as subjects you have studied in the past.

Online sources, newspaper articles, books , journal articles, and even your own class textbook are all great places to start searching for topics for your experiments and psychology term papers. Before you begin, learn more about  how to conduct a psychology experiment .

What This Means For You

After looking at this brief list of possible topics for psychology papers, it is easy to see that psychology is a very broad and diverse subject. While this variety makes it possible to find a topic that really catches your interest, it can sometimes make it very difficult for some students to select a good topic.

If you are still stumped by your assignment, ask your instructor for suggestions and consider a few from this list for inspiration.

  • Hockenbury, SE & Nolan, SA. Psychology. New York: Worth Publishers; 2014.
  • Santrock, JW. A Topical Approach to Lifespan Development. New York: McGraw-Hill Education; 2016.

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

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100 Psychology Thesis Topics for 2023

psychology thesis topics

Students know the importance of developing great psychology dissertation topics for a graduate assignment. However, many don’t have the time to brainstorm ideas that meet the requirements their professors expect. We’ve done a lot of the heavy lifting and have put together a list of 100 psychology thesis topics suitable for several situations. Feel free to pick a topic and start writing your thesis proposal .

General Psychology Topics for High School

  • Give five top reasons why you would want to become a psychologist.
  • What kind of influence has psychology research had in other sciences?
  • Why are teenagers at higher risk of developing an eating disorder?
  • How are phobias developed in children under the age of twelve?
  • In what ways did Pavlov’s conditioning experiment contribute to our understanding of addiction therapy?

Child Psychology Research Paper Topics

  • What are the major differences between psychiatry and psychology?
  • Discuss mental tools that can be used to determine when children are lying to adults.
  • What were the ethical complications involve 12d in the Little Albert Experiment?
  • What does research suggest is the origin of intelligence in children?
  • How does emotional intelligence in children affect their learning abilities?

Cognitive Psychology Topics

  • How did Alan Turing’s suggestion that the brain is an organized machine lead to computers?
  • Do the “seven chunks of information” still hold through in research?
  • Can we develop working memory to retain greater long-term memory?
  • Can a person that has been convicted of a felony charge change into a law-abiding citizen?
  • How can cognitive therapy be used to help patients suffering from emotional disorders?

Developmental Psychology Topics

  • How do our perceptions of our experiences affect development in teenagers?
  • What are the four levels of development and which is most important in children?
  • Can a moral judgment be taught to toddlers who have latent reasoning skills?
  • How are our personalities developed through the influence of others?
  • Are children naturally beholden to one parent or the other?

Social Psychology Topics for College Students

  • How are a person’s original opinions influenced by the opinions of larger groups?
  • What psychological effects does spending too much time on social media have?
  • How do social psychologists deal with aggression and violence in young adults?
  • What impact has social psychology had on our understanding of online bullying?
  • How do family dynamics change when a member of the immediate family dies?

Sports Psychology Research Topics

  • Does aging have a bigger impact on retired athletes’ mental health than head trauma?
  • How is mental health affected by long recovery schedules for serious body injuries?
  • How does neuro-linguistic programming in professional athletes affect performance?
  • How do professional athletes mentally prepare for competitions?
  • How have approaches to sports training and preparation been affected by developments in psychology?

Controversial Topics in Psychology

  • How did the Milgram Obedience Experiments of the 1960s help us understand how we view authority figures?
  • How did the Stanford Experiment help further our knowledge of situational variables on human behavior?
  • How did Harlow’s experiments of affection (especially the lack of affection) lead to advancements in child development theories?
  • Does the implementation of capital punishment on sex offenders prevent them from committing a crime?
  • What is the link between criminal acts and teenagers that were bullied?

Health Psychology Topics for College Students

  • What impact do regular exercise and healthy eating have on mental health in young adults?
  • How have the media’s depictions of body ideals have negatively impacted how young adults see themselves?
  • What are the most effective strategies for getting people to develop healthy eating habits?
  • What can local governments do to help people maintain mental health after a disaster?
  • How do stress management techniques help people cope with difficult situations in the workplace?

More Controversial Psychology Topics

  • What did the “lost in a mall” study lead to a better understanding of how memories are formed and stored?
  • Why was were the Voodoo Correlation studies of the 1960s so controversial and what did they reveal about human behavior?
  • What did showing a lack of affection in infants reveal about the need to nurture one’s young?
  • What did the Kirsch Anti-Depressant reveal about the impact that harmless placebos have on humans?
  • What are the potential risks of taking part in multiple health studies throughout a given year?

Great Educational Psychology Topics

  • How can different technologies help students perform better at school?
  • Does working in a small group help students retain more information?
  • How does physical activity help students perform better on standardized tests?
  • What psychological factors should teachers consider as they develop each year’s curriculum?
  • In what ways do psychologists help develop confidence in students with learning disabilities?

Excellent Cultural Psychology Topics

  • What are some of the most difficult cultural situations young people face?
  • In what ways does developing culture roots with one’s family positively impact social behavior?
  • What stresses do young people feel when they return to their native countries?
  • What impact does cultural learning have on students in elementary school?
  • How does family support help young people cope with difficult decisions?

Psychology Topics to Write About

  • Why are adolescents more at risk of developing some type of eating disorder?
  • What are the negative effects of insomnia in patients being treated in a medical facility?
  • In what ways does group therapy positively impact a patient’s ability to overcome addiction?
  • Why should therapists refrain from prescribing ADHD medications to children?
  • What are the most effective ways of treating PTSD without using prescription medication?

Abnormal Psychology Topics

  • What are the psychological effects of telling either a truth or a lie among young adults?
  • What are the major causes of borderline personality disorder in teenagers?
  • In what ways does the level of insanity change in patients under specific treatment?
  • Why are some people more prone to suffer from personality disorders?
  • Can the Oedipus complex first introduced by Freud be used in treatment today?

Developmental Psychology Research Topics

  • What role does television media play in promoting violence in adults?
  • What are the major psychological characteristics in a child prone to aggression?
  • What are the major factors in sociopathic behavior among youth?
  • What are some traditional ways of parenting that have been proven ineffective?
  • What environmental factors increase the chances of child abuse by a parent?

Biological Psychology Topics

  • How are cognitive diseases related to the development of certain disorders?
  • How are our perceptions of the world around us affecting the way we behave?
  • Can alcohol addiction and other drug-related dependencies be tied to genetics?
  • Does biology prevent humans from experiencing a pure sense of free will?
  • In what ways does functionalism play into biological psychology?

More Sports Psychology Topics

  • What are the negative effects on the mind of exercising to lose weight?
  • How is having a network of supporters important for athletic performance?
  • How does the attention of PHDs affect the way people feel about sports?
  • What impact do sports role models have on a youth’s development?
  • Is the NCAA giving an adequate education to its student-athletes?
  • What are the most effective ways of dealing with school bullying?
  • What are the major causes of psychopathic tendencies in teenagers?
  • How does our modern society deal with gender roles?
  • What are the key characteristics that improve the abilities to learn a new language?
  • Do children require a good foundation to excel academically?

Forensic Psychology Topics

  • How can psychology be used to identify and put suspects on trial for certain crimes?
  • How has forensic psychology assisted in the way we look at death penalty cases?
  • Can psychotic disorders be reevaluated as a result of better psych understanding?
  • Should mental diseases be considered in capital punishment cases?
  • How would you evaluate the mitigating effects of capital cases in people?

What did you think of our list of psychology thesis topics? Our professional dissertation writers keep our list of ideas up-to-date so that students are always pushing the envelope of research in every discipline. Check back for new general psychology topics or contact us to have a list custom-made for a specific research project.

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Psychology Dissertation Topics: 30+ Examples You Can Explore

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by  Antony W

February 19, 2022

psychology dissertation topics

Psychology can be an interesting area to explore in your dissertation assignment provided you choose the right topic. That’s why in this guide, we give you a list of 30+ psychology dissertation topics from which you can pick one interesting topic to investigate.

There are many areas to explore as a psychology student, including personality, social, biological, cognitive, behavioral, industrial, psychosocial, and personality psychology. So it should be easy to find an interesting topic that you can investigate provided it falls within the scope of the project.

Our guide to choosing topics for your dissertation remains unchanged. That means the topic you choose to investigate has a gap in existing literature that your research can fill. With that said, let’s look at some of the psychology dissertation topics that you can explore right now.

Psychology Dissertation Topics: 30+ Examples

The following is a list of 30+ psychology dissertation topics. You can use them as inspiration to help you come up with a unique topic of your own. Or you can pick one topic idea from the list, improve it, talk to your supervisor about the topic, and then begin your investigation.  

Developmental Psychology Dissertation Topics

Development psychology explores how behaviors change from time to time based on motor skills, language, and intelligence.

Researchers develop a number of theories and models to explain how these changes take place, making this an interesting area to explore. Some of the topics that may be interesting to explore under this category of study include:

  • Explaining cognitive development change: one sort of learning mechanism or several learning paradigms for various problems
  • The extent to which knowing neuro development mechanisms can provide insight into how early cognition happens.
  • Conversational comprehension as a domain-wide enhancement in processing speed and working-memory capacity in cognitive effort.
  • The acquisition of culture and biological growth is critical for the development of a kid.
  • Are children with dyscalculia’s talents unrelated to numeracy affected by the disorder, or are they largely independent?
  • How the concept of plasticity in child development may account for a kid’s capacity to alter in response to both positive and bad life experiences.

Abnormal Psychology Dissertation Topics

This area of study focuses on analyzing abnormal behavior with an effort to establish a positive change.

Ideally, this area of study suits students interested in studying psychological traits that go against what we consider to be normal and goes further into exploring uncommon conditions.

Some topics that may be worth exploring in this area of study are as follows:

  • Subtypes of drug dependency are linked to dissociable networks of disturbance in the limbic brain.
  • The efficacy of the DSM-V as a tool for categorizing aberrant psychiatric symptoms is being questioned.
  • How do the cognitive processes of people with schizophrenia vary from those of those with conventional cognitive processes?
  • What distinguishes Intellectual Development Disorders (IDD) from Autism Spectrum Disorders?
  • The relevance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies in evaluating neurobiological ideas that schizophrenia is caused by aberrant fronto-temporal lobe connections.
  • Schizophrenia is studied as a multi-dimensional condition.
  • Is it possible that the fact that some autistics have isolated skills might assist explain the syndrome’s cause?
  • A malfunctioning amygdale and ventromedial prefrontal cortex have a role in psychopathology.

Evolutionary Psychology Dissertation Topics

In evolutionary psychology, the focus is on explaining psychological characteristics by applying evolutionary behavior with an effort to derive and explain adaptation and natural selection.

With this respect, researchers hold that humans’ psychological mechanisms are ancestral inheritance, which has played a major role in solving problems throughout human’s history.

Evolutionary psychology is an interesting area of study that lets you dig deeper into human history and explain the impact if evolutionary psychology on the modern society. Some interesting topics to explore here are: 

  • The relative relevance of face symmetry, averageness, and secondary sex features as valid predictors of mate selection.
  • The application of evolutionary psychology to group behavior helps explain how humans act in organizations, whether that behavior is logical or irrational.
  • Examining if artificially produced instances of evolutionary game theory may be used to evaluate human behavior in the actual world.
  • Why individual features and cognitive modules can’t account for the intricacies of human social behavior.
  • Understanding the evolution of the human brain through human cognitive growth.
  • Investigating if reciprocal altruism is sufficient to explain altruism in various social circumstances.
  • What role does evolutionary psychology play in explaining anomalies in human decision-making?

Social Psychology Dissertation Topics

Social psychology is an interesting area of study that focuses on how people in groups interact through influential behavior.

You may study behavioral factors such as social influence, non-verbal communication, and attitudes in controlled situations to investigate how the behavior of individuals influences each other in groups.

Here are some suggestions of dissertation topics that you can explore under this category:

  • Behavioral game theory: How players learn from and influence others in strategic thinking.
  • The impact of priming’s automatic effects on complicated behavior in real-life circumstances.
  • Nature or nurture? The early development of nonverbal communication in infants: nature or nurture?
  • Assessing the amount and duration of factors affecting automatic priming effects in relation to social behavior.
  • The social intuitionist paradigm is used to assess the role of reason and emotion in moral judgment.
  • Demonstrating how cognitive neuroscience may inform social psychology by merging social cognition and understanding of brain networks and systems

Cognitive Psychology Dissertation Topics

If you’re interested in learning how the human brain perceives and represents information, then you should immerse yourself in studying cognitive psychology.

You’ll be studying the processes involved information presentation through computer modelling, neuropsychology, and experimentation to understand the encoding of information in the human brand at both micro and macro levels.

Some of the most interesting dissertation topics to explore in this area include the following:

  • Is MRI testing an accurate predictor of brain function?
  • The idea of “grandmother cells” is important for explaining neuronal selectivity to high-level information processing, such as during facial recognition.
  • Effective cognition entails picking the right information at the right moment and in the proper order.
  • Changes in brain processing in response to event segmentation: distinguishing between cause and effect in boundary recognition
  • Bias in visual working memory and attention: a study of the link between working memory and attention.
  • The connection between poor social cognition, emotion, and anxiety disorders.
  • The cerebellum’s contribution to higher-order cortical activities.
  • The dependability, validity, and applicability of cognitive psychology study findings to real-life behavior and cognition.
  • Evaluating Gibson’s theory of direct perception in comparison to constructivist explanations and more modern cognitive theories.
  • The concept that the right and left hemispheres of the brain have different processing methods is critical to understanding how the brain works.
  • The mature human brain’s adaptability is limited.
  • Is there really a thing as subliminal perception, or is it part of a more complicated phenomenon?

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

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172 Awesome Psychology Dissertation Topics For High Scores

psychology dissertation topicss

An ideal dissertation topic should be clear, manageable, original, and relevant to your academic discipline. Primarily, the case ought to have enough information that will help you support your arguments. Unfortunately, many college and university students have difficulty coming up with exceptional topics, considering how detailed and time-consuming the brainstorming process can be.

On the bright side, we have the best psychology dissertation ideas to get you underway. If you are hungry for exceptional psychology dissertation topics, this article features over 170 hand-picked views to whet your appetite. Read on to get a taste of what we have to offer:

Dissertation Topics In Educational Psychology

  • Discuss the measures that can help children with an anxiety disorder improve their performance in tests
  • A qualitative study of how the concept of reflective practice can be in childhood learning
  • Examine whether identifying a child’s learning style can help to improve outcomes
  • Elaborate whether the attachment theory can explain the development of a subjective self in the child
  • Explain the causes of increased anorexia rate in children
  • Elaborate how operant conditioning works
  • Define learning in educational psychology
  • What brings about achievement gaps?
  • Examine how listening to music affects a child’s cognitive skills
  • Discuss the link between self-esteem and academic success
  • Evaluate the importance of showing affection to children
  • Examine if homosexuality is a psychological disorder
  • Discuss fetishes and their related behavior
  • Define childhood trauma and outline its effects

Dissertation Topics In Counseling Psychology

  • Discuss the concept of attention span among children
  • What is the distinction between explicit and implicit memory?
  • Discuss language and speech development in children
  • What is the role of color psychology in cognitive development studies?
  • Which factors affect one’s problem-solving ability?
  • What is the link between temperament and creativity?
  • Explain how marriage alters your personality
  • What is the relationship between prosaical behavior and personality?
  • Is there any link between your choice of pet and your personality

Dissertation Topics In Industrial Psychology

  • What are the psychological consequences of a hate crime?
  • Discuss the role of psychologists in military interrogations
  • Explain the psychological impacts of a miscarriage on a couple
  • What are the effects of abortion on the emotional and mental well-being of women?
  • Elaborate why attractive people often tend to have the upper hand at work
  • What is the impact of homelessness on mental health?
  • Elaborate whether there is a difference between depression in females and males
  • Analyze the relationship between working memory and attention
  • Explore the relationship between television and obesity
  • Evaluate the role of the family in the socialization process of a child
  • Effects of laughter on your emotional and physical health
  • Discuss gender role and identity in children
  • What are the health benefits of dreams?
  • Elaborate the impact of dreams on one’s social life
  • Do violent fantasies have any meaning in real life?

Psychology Thesis Topics List

  • Examine what the Stroop effect says about one’s mind
  • Analyze whether excessive social media use is comparable to drug addiction
  • Is there are a link between your music taste and your personality?
  • What effects does music have on your psychological response?
  • How do colors affect a child’s learning?
  • What are the best strategies to manage loss and grief?
  • Discuss effective programs that can curb suicide among students
  • Explain why depression seems to be more in women than in men
  • Assess the most effective communication techniques with patients
  • In what ways can breast cancer patients manage stress?
  • Explain the neurobiology behind suicidal thoughts
  • What factors contribute to deviant behavior in the workplace?
  • Discuss mood disorders among young adults
  • Elaborate how lying impacts your mental health
  • How does age affect your memory?
  • Explain the difference between the midlife crisis in men and women
  • Highlight different ways to cope with grief
  • What influence does genetics have on social relationships?
  • Review the theory of behavioral game
  • Elaborate how the frontal cortex executive function makes every human unique
  • Evaluate a modular account of the brain by Fodor in the light of modern neuroscientific research
  • Discuss the first signs of ADHD among children and adults
  • To what degree can there be a change of personality over some time?
  • Outline the mental and physical effects of marijuana use among healthy adults
  • Define and discuss the theory of memory models
  • Investigate how internet pornography impacts a generation of users
  • Highlight the link between easy access to therapy and socio-economic status
  • Explain the multiple dimensions of schizophrenia
  • Look at the link between educational attainment level and self-motivation
  • Investigate cults as social constructs
  • What is the involvement of mood in the use of language?
  • Analyze the effects of frequent exposure to computers on the proper development of attention
  • Examine how a talent affect a sportsman’s popularity
  • How does intelligence influence committed crimes?
  • What are the pros and cons of cross-cultural relationships?
  • Highlight the influence of social pressure on an individual’s morale
  • Review the cognitive-behavioral theory
  • Explain the link between mental games and a child’s cognitive skills
  • Elaborate the role of sex hormones in the development of the brain during the puberty stage
  • An overview of deep engagement relationship and friendship
  • What is the difference between clinical and abnormal psychology

Mental Health Dissertation Topics

  • A study of long term psychological effects of divorce on the adult children of divorcees
  • What sort of mental health problems do prisoners face?
  • Discuss the link between mental health and unemployment
  • Examine how deteriorating mental health affects one’s physical health
  • Address effects of television advertisements in the cognitive development of children in the U.S
  • Investigate the role of social media friendships on deteriorating mental health
  • Analyze the impact of emotional attachment on your mental well being
  • Explain the impact of breakups on a man’s mental health
  • How does social media play out in provoking aggression?
  • What are the psychological and social impacts of virtual networks?
  • Address the psychological impact of cyberbullying
  • Discuss mental health and psychological resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic

Psychology Research Questions

  • Examine different types of learning disabilities and how to manage them
  • What is the link between performance and job satisfaction?
  • Detail the effects f romantic jealousy in maintaining a committed relationship
  • Analyze the role of anxiety in hyperalgesia
  • Review the factors that influence ineffective training organization
  • Examine dating violence and controlling issues affecting women
  • Investigate stress responses in survivors of sexual abuse
  • A case study of the attachment theory as it applies to family relationships
  • Discuss impacts of ambiguity and job roles on behavioral disorders
  • Address the effects of behavioral therapy on body image and weight loss
  • What are the results of maternal stress on language acquisition among children?

Forensic Psychology Dissertation Ideas

  • Which rules should psychologists follow when verbally interacting with criminals in court?
  • Elaborate the credibility of the statement of a mentally challenged eyewitness
  • What is the legitimacy and reliability of an eyewitness’s memory?
  • What rules of conduct should be followed by forensic psychologists while in court?
  • Discuss the role of upbringing in curbing the making of a serial killer
  • Define internet policing and explain some valuable strategies to make it effective
  • What is the role of video games, movies, and the internet in augmenting copycat crimes?
  • Elaborate why society tends to neglect domestic violence inflicted on men
  • What drives people into mass killings, and why is it so rampant in the U.S?
  • Are there enough measures to reduce the risks of folks in special education ending up in the penal system?
  • Explain how a role in law enforcement impacts an individual’s private life?
  • Juvenile murders: Point out the factors that affect areas with high rates of murders committed by children
  • Are prisons and the criminal justice system effective in rehabilitation?
  • Discuss the factors that have contributed to the emergence of home-grown terrorism

Social Psychology Dissertation Ideas

  • What is the influence of automatic effects of priming on complex behavior in real-life situations?
  • Evaluate the contribution of emotion and reason in moral judgment through the social intuitionist model
  • Discuss the enduring legacy of cognitive dissonance
  • What are the effects of spanking on a child’s psychology
  • Explain the effects and causes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children
  • Detail the reasons for antisocial behavior among young adults
  • Discuss the early signs of a mental illness among infants
  • Point out the leading causes of increased stress and depression in young adults
  • Elaborate different types of torture, highlighting their impact on a child’s mind and adult life
  • Explain the effects of video games and violent music on a child’s mind and behavior
  • Examine different phases of a child’s growth and psychological development
  • What effect does the birth order have on a child’s accomplishments and success?
  • Detail the outcomes of a self-centered mother on a child’s mental health
  • What are remedial and preventive measures that can curb childhood abuse?
  • The introvert personality: What are the consequences of the introvert personality among children?
  • Elaborate the relationship between negligence in parents and obesity among children
  • Look into the psychological, ethical, and legal aspects of adoption

Clinical Psychology Dissertation Ideas

  • Look into the major depressive disorder (MDD) within a cognitive framework
  • Explain the barriers to communicating associated with sexual dysfunction following heart trauma
  • What is the link between experiences and eating behavior among adults?
  • Explore the concept of body image and identity among folks who have undergone a lung or heart transplant
  • Highlight the demographic and clinical factors that predict insight in individuals with compulsions and obsessions
  • Define schizophrenia and point out potential therapies
  • What medication and treatments can treat paranoia and phobias?
  • What therapies can treat anxiety disorder and panic attacks?
  • Which medicines and therapies are effective in treating addictions?
  • Discuss different clinical treatments for insomnia
  • Examine the effectiveness of antidepressants in therapy treatments
  • Explain the most effective practices utilized in treating depression
  • What factors lead to post-traumatic stress disorder?
  • Are antidepressants addictive? Discuss their effectiveness and potential side effects
  • Is behavioral therapy the best treatment for criminals?
  • In what ways can psychology be used to manage chronic pain?

Exciting Ideas For A Psychology Dissertation

  • Elaborate how a sleeping disorder affects a sportsman’s stamina
  • Discuss the prevalence of panic attacks in athletes and point out effective ways to combat them
  • What are the potential adverse effects of steroids on the mental health of an athlete
  • Highlight the significance of sports psychology in promoting mental health
  • Which methods can athletes use to manage and control their negative emotions appropriately?
  • Define the term team chemistry and explain how it can build a sound, supportive team

Dissertation Ideas Psychology

  • Examine how group belonging influences a person’s behavior
  • Explain how physical exercise can manage mood swings
  • Define the link between psychology and mythology
  • Discuss the basic techniques utilized in psychological research
  • Look at compliance and obedience as a function of social status
  • Highlight different ways to control aggression among youths
  • What are the effects and causes of dehumanization in prisons across the U.S
  • Analyze how human cloning can be a solution to childless couples
  • Explain the concept of a double foot-in door and how it can manipulate someone
  • Define the term Mood Freezing and elaborate its effects
  • Is it true that geniuses are made and not born?
  • What is the connection between the use of social media and the spike in cases of violence among young adults?
  • Examine the impact of breakfast on a person’s overall day to day activities
  • Revisit notorious human experiments in history and their ethical shortcomings
  • Explain how different colors can enhance a person’s mood
  • Explain the factors that contribute to dissociative orders
  • Define the difference between mental disorders and mood disorders

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Psychology Dissertation Topics

A psychology dissertation needs to contribute original knowledge to the discipline. Normally, this is based on previous, well-documented research and should demonstrate a good understanding of the issues concerned. In particular, a good psychology dissertation requires a sound rationale, such as that of addressing a gap in the research literature. The dissertation usually has to follow a specific standardised format, and involves attempting to support or confirm a hypothesis based on the investigator’s individual insights and prior research in the field. However, qualitative psychology dissertations attempt to explore and answer a specific research question rather than confirming a hypothesis. Research aims and procedures need to be clearly stated and follow a standard format. The title should be succinct and accurately reflect the substance of the dissertation. It is also essential that research cited is linked together logically, in a way that is consistent with the research aim. Perhaps most importantly, there needs to be critical analysis of past research to highlight the need for the dissertation, but also critical evaluation of the study conducted for the dissertation itself. The conclusion needs to summarise the main arguments in relation to the claims, and presented in a way that indicates whether the initial hypothesis is supported or rejected. Alternatively, for qualitative research, the discussion and conclusion need to discuss whether the research question has been fully explored. If you are looking to complete a psychology dissertation, here are some ideas of topics that you could research:

  • Cognitive Psychology dissertation topics
  • Developmental Psychology dissertation topics
  • Social Psychology dissertation topics
  • Evolutionary Psychology dissertation topics

Abnormal Psychology dissertation topics

  • The Psychology of Personality dissertation topics
  • Additional Psychology dissertation Topics

Cognitive Psychology Dissertation Topics

Cognitive psychology investigates the way the human brain represents information. It seeks to explore the underlying processes involved through experimentation, computer modelling and neuropsychology. Theories attempt to understand how information is encoded in the brain at macro and micro levels. This is a vast subject and there are many topics to choose from. If you are looking to base your dissertation on the area of cognitive psychology, below are just some psychology dissertation topics that could be researched further:

  • The contribution of expectations, attention and emotional states to the perception of pain.
  • The extent to which objective methods of measurement can support theoretical approaches to consciousness.
  • Limitations of the modular view of the brain: The importance of feedback and cross-modulation in information processing.
  • Are indirect and direct theories of perception incompatible or can recent enactive accounts potentially lead to a compromise?
  • Assessing the development of implicit intergroup cognition in relation to in-groups and out-groups: social learning or pre-specified?
  • How studies of bilingualism and trilingualism in infants can indicate the degree of interaction between representational systems encoding for different languages in the brain.
  • The usefulness of the concept of ” grandmother cells ” for understanding the selectivity of neurons to high-level information processing, such as during facial recognition.
  • The relationship between impaired social cognition, emotion and anxiety disorders.
  • The role of implicit visual processing in the identification of objects: neural mechanisms and pathways.
  • Changes in neural processing in response to event segmentation: separating cause and effect in boundary recognition.
  • The sum of its parts? Consciousness is best explained as an output of implicit processes: implications for understanding intentionality.
  • Of all the areas of the cortex, the prefrontal area is paramount in demarcating what makes humans human.
  • The function of the prefrontal cortex can only be understood properly by considering how it relates to other areas of the brain.
  • Rather than being related to specific areas of the brain, language is best explained as a function of multiple overlapping neural circuits existing throughout the cortex.
  • Neural network theories might be able to account for some lower order functions of the brain but are unable to explain the representations that occur at higher areas: does the evidence reflect this?
  • As information flows from earlier sensory-specific areas to higher regions of the brain, representations become more integrated: consequences and implications.
  • Contribution of the cerebellum in relation to the higher functions of the cortex.
  • Limits to the plasticity of the adult human brain.
  • Are MRI studies a reliable indicator of brain function?
  • The claim that the right and left brain hemispheres have different processing styles is fundamental to understanding how the brain functions.
  • Parallel distributed processing is unable to provide an explanation for the higher functioning aspects of the human brain.
  • Baddeley’s model of working memory compared to contemporary alternative theories.
  • Working memory can best be explained as a function of long-term memory.
  • Evidence for the role of the hippocampus in memory formation and consolidation: application of evidence to neurodegenerative disorders like dementia.
  • The relationship between working memory and attention: bias in visual working memory and attention.
  • The role of the prefrontal cortex in short-term memory.
  • How emotional memory relates to episodic memory.
  • Attention depends on the progressive activation of forward areas of the brain.
  • Attention is better interpreted as a multivariate rather than a uni-modal concept.
  • View-dependent theories of vision are more successful in accounting for natural perception than view-independent theories.
  • Computer models of how perception occurs can lead to a misunderstanding of how the mechanisms of perception actually operate.
  • How visual illusions help understand perceptual processes.
  • Assessing the validity of Gibson’s theory of direct perception compared to constructivist accounts and more recent cognitive theories.
  • Why does the sense of time vary according to circumstances?
  • Is memory for past events partially influenced by the situation or context in which recall takes place?
  • Effective cognition is about selecting appropriate information at the right time in the correct order.
  • Does subliminal perception exist or is it part of a more complex phenomenon?
  • Hierarchical explanations of information flow and parallel distributed processing.
  • Can fMRI measures be used to accurately identify and distinguish deceptive information from guilty knowledge?
  • The reliability, validity, and usefulness of research findings from cognitive psychology applied to real-life behaviour and cognition.
  • The Network Neuroscience Theory: is general intelligence in humans a consequence of individual differences in neural network structure and architecture?

Developmental Psychology Dissertation Topics

Developmental psychology investigates how children’s behaviour changes over time, by studying experience and behaviour. Change is, for example, studied in a variety of areas including language, intelligence and motor skills. Theories of development propose a number of models to account for how change occurs, and gives pre-eminence either to experience or more enduring criteria. Some approaches take a mid-way position, however, by proposing an interaction between the two. Developmental psychology is an interesting area and relevant to many people, including doctors, teachers and parents. A psychology dissertation on developmental psychology may indeed be useful and well read.

  • Are abilities unconnected with numeracy of children with dyscalculia affected by the condition or are they relatively independent?
  • The role of face stimuli in assessing the development of the human ventral pathway from infancy to adulthood.
  • The extent and role of plasticity in shaping visual cognitive development.
  • Explaining change during cognitive development: one type of learning mechanism or diverse learning paradigms for different problems?
  • Assessing whether intrinsic factors or the quality of interaction between human caregivers and children lead to successful learning outcomes.
  • The extent to which understanding the mechanisms of neural development can be informative as to how early cognition occurs.
  • Explaining how evidence for increasing integration of systems during the course of development can be assimilated with the increasing dissociation of structures.
  • The development of conversational understanding as a domain-general improvement in processing speed and working-memory capacity in cognitive effort.
  • The influence of culture on conversational understanding, where children do not normally communicate with adults.
  • Scale errors and action planning in children: Assessing the implications of DeLoache’s findings for understanding the “what/where” pathways in the human brain.
  • Developmental cognitive neuroscience’s significance for the early detection and treatment of developmental disorders.
  • Is Piaget’s theory of cognitive development still a valid theory in the light of modern findings in cognitive neuroscience?
  • How young children learn and thrive when their childhood is shaped by positive, secure relationships with knowledgeable adults, who are able to support their child’s learning and development.
  • How the notion of plasticity in child development can account for the child’s ability to change in response to negative or positive life experiences.
  • The acquirement of culture and biological growth is essential for child development.

Social Psychology Dissertation Topics

Social psychology involves studying how individuals in groups interact. This is achieved through investigating how individual behaviour is influenced by others. Immediate social interactions comprise the main focus of concern in which such behaviours as social influence, attitudes and non-verbal communication etc., may be studied in controlled situations, particularly that of traditional laboratory experiments, but also field experiments. Nevertheless, there is a growing trend in social psychology towards the use of qualitative research methods, such as that of interviews or focus groups, which provide more in-depth explanations of social psychology. Below are just some suggestions for psychology dissertation topics based on social psychology:

  • Factors modulating automatic priming effects in relation to social behaviour: assessing magnitude and duration.
  • The influence of automatic effects of priming on complex behaviour in real-life situations.
  • An overlapping neural network representing the concept of self and other: Implications for sustaining self-integrity and understanding interpersonal relations.
  • Behavioural game theory: How players learn from and influence others in relation to strategic thinking, and the implications for real-life social interaction.
  • Assessing the contribution of reason and emotion in moral judgment through the social intuitionist model.
  • Early stable development of implicit social cognition and preference for in-groups: assessing how evaluation is assigned.
  • Charting how cognitive neuroscience can inform social psychology in terms of integrating social dimensions of cognition and knowledge of neural networks and mechanisms.
  • Agent-based computational models of collective behaviour: understanding group behaviour from the bottom-up.
  • The early onset of non-verbal communication in infants: nature or nature?
  • The Behaviour Stimulus Interaction (BSI) theory and cognitive conflict in approach/avoidance situations: The duration of the devaluation effect.
  • The enduring legacy of cognitive dissonance.

Evolutionary Psychology Dissertation Topics

Evolutionary psychology seeks to explain psychological attributes through applying evolutionary theory to behaviour that is held to derive from natural selection and adaptation. In this regard, humans have inherited psychological mechanisms from their ancestors that helped solve enduring problems throughout evolutionary time. Such mechanisms are assumed to constrain the behaviour of modern-day individuals. The study of evolutionary psychology enables you to research into history of man, as well as the application of evolutionary psychology to many areas of modern day society, such as organisations. Writing a psychology dissertation in this area may prove enjoyable for the author, as well as the reader.

  • Is evolutionary psychology merely a field of enquiry or a robust paradigm for investigating human behaviour?
  • Investigating whether reciprocal altruism is adequate in explaining altruism in different social situations.
  • Why individual traits and cognitive modules fail to explain the complexities of human social behaviour.
  • Assessing the relative importance of facial symmetry, averageness and secondary sex characteristics as reliable indicators of mate choice.
  • Investigating whether artificially-induced examples of evolutionary game theory can be a valid means of assessing human behaviour in the real world.
  • Comparing sex differences in emotional outlook as a function of parental investment theory between principal biological carers and principal non-biological carers.
  • Discriminating between phobias and anxiety states that are adaptive compared to those that are learned.
  • Humans engage in social exchange behaviour using the same cognitive reasoning that enables them to engage in everything else they do.
  • Are human mental abilities better described by a general learning mechanism based on language or a more dedicated mechanism?
  • Human cognitive development as a proxy for understanding the evolution of the human brain.
  • The executive functions of the frontal cortex are what make humans unique.
  • An appraisal of Fodor’s modular account of the brain in the light of recent neuroscientific research.
  • A cheater detection module: fact or fantasy?
  • Ethnographic examples as a valid measure of universal human abilities.
  • Sex differences in attitudes to self as a function of evolutionary constraints.
  • How can evolutionary psychology explain anomalies in human decision-making?
  • Evolutionary psychology on group behaviour can explain the way in which humans behave in organisations whether that behaviour is rational or irrational.
  • Is Darwin’s theory of sexual selection still applicable for explaining cross-cultural activities and the human expression of emotions?

Abnormal psychology is about the scientific study of abnormal behaviour that serves to describe and explain such behaviour in order to affect positive change. Abnormal, in this context, is defined as any person that has psychological traits that deviate from the norm. Abnormal psychology is for those students who want to explore more uncommon conditions. The topics below will make it easier to research for a specific topic on which to write your psychology dissertation.

  • Questioning the validity of DSM-V as a tool for categorising abnormal psychological symptoms.
  • Relating subtypes with substance dependence to dissociable networks of disruption in the limbic system.
  • The significance of the anterior cingulated cortex for understanding cognitive deficits in schizophrenia.
  • The role of a dysfunctional amygdale and ventromedial prefrontal cortex in psychopathology.
  • A study of Schizophrenia as a multi-dimensional syndrome.
  • The extent to which the use of cannabis leads to deficits in working memory.
  • The role of MRI studies for assessing neurobiological theories that schizophrenia is caused by abnormal fronto-temporal lobe connections.
  • Can a malfunctioning mirror neuron system sufficiently account for autism or are additional explanations based on cognitive models of social behaviour required to understand the syndrome more fully?
  • The probable causes of face processing deficits in Autism Spectrum Disorder: social or visual?
  • Is category deficits evidence of category-specific knowledge or a more distributed system of processing?
  • Why do schizophrenics tend to experience auditory rather than visual hallucinations?
  • Can phobias be treated more effectively by medication, cognitive retraining therapies, behavioural techniques or psychotherapeutic approaches?
  • Can the fact that some autistics display isolated talents help explain the syndrome’s cause?
  • Assessing the symptoms of ADHD in adults and in children: Is there a different ADHD disorder for adults?
  • How do cognitive processes in individuals with schizophrenia differ to those of an individual with typical cognitive processes?
  • How, and in what ways is Intellectual development disorders (IDD) different to Autism Spectrum Disorders?

The Psychology of Personality Dissertation Topics

Personality is a set of unique features possessed by an individual that, according to a given situation, will govern their behaviour. The psychology of personality is therefore the study of the similarity and differences that exist amongst various individuals. There have been two main approaches to the study of this subject area; those that seek to formulate general characteristics that apply to many individuals and those that are more focused upon the nuances of personality traits. For psychology dissertation topics to base your dissertation on, see below:

  • Evaluating whether the Health Personality Inventory can predict risk of substance misuse in adolescents.
  • In relation to cognitive dissonance, to what extent do extroverts and introverts differ when involved in group discussion.
  • To what extent can different forms of perfectionism predict attitudes to success and failure?
  • Can the use of personality inventories accurately assess different personality traits?
  • Can the identification of personality traits at a young age predict personality profiles in adults?
  • Creativity as a multi-faceted propensity: identifying the crucial traits and cognitive factors.
  • Drugs of choice and personality: differences between sensation seekers and the internally conflicted.
  • Personality and decision making: the role of impulsivity and rational thinking.
  • First impressions and the impact they have on assessing personality traits.
  • Predicting individuals at risk of suicide through identification of personality traits associated with extroversion and introversion.
  • Which personality inventories are the most effective in assessing personality?
  • To what extent can personality change over a period of time?
  • The effectiveness of using personality inventories for identifying personality disorders
  • The effectiveness of the current approach used to diagnosis personality disorders

Additional Psychology Dissertation Topics

  • To what extent can colour influence sporting performance?
  • The influence of colour on emotion.
  • How does colour and design influence time perception?
  • Can language influence perception?
  • Does language influence thought? The linguistic-relativity debate.
  • The cross-cultural differences in number processing.
  • The psychology of religion: a systematic review.
  • How does religion impact mental wellbeing?
  • The physical and mental impact of cannabis use in healthy adults.
  • The effect of cannabis on creativity.
  • Models of memory: a systematic review.
  • Can learning memory techniques effectively improve academic performance?
  • Can mindfulness improve mental wellbeing?
  • The history of 20th century psychology movements.
  • Individual personality differences and their impact on creativity.
  • Creative thought: a systematic review.
  • How is creativity influenced by environment?
  • The psychology of happiness: a systematic review.
  • Does the use of social media decrease happiness?
  • To what extent does exposure to nature increase happiness?
  • Can exercise improve happiness?
  • The influence of exercise on wellbeing.
  • The influence of exercise on cognitive functioning.
  • To what extent do indoor plants increase employee productivity?
  • To what extent do video games affect personal wellbeing?
  • How does sleep influence personal wellbeing?
  • Financial markets and the impact on the psychology of the masses.
  • The role of psychology in modern day sport.
  • Internet pornography: the effects on a generation of users.
  • The problem of death: how we all deal with knowing the end of our story.
  • The link between socio-economic status and being able to access therapy.
  • To what extent can executive function become impaired by emotion?
  • The use of effective therapies for psychological conditions.

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Top and Latest 150+ Psychology Dissertation Topics 2024

Tom Baldwin - Jan 22, 2024

Top and Latest 150+ Psychology Dissertation Topics 2024

Choosing the right psychology dissertation topics are crucial for successful researches. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore a diverse range of dissertation topics across various fields of psychology. Whether you’re interested in cognitive psychology, clinical psychology, developmental psychology, or any other subfield, you’re sure to find inspiration for your dissertation.

Ready to unlock the treasure chest of potential topics? Here’s a curated selection of over 150 dissertation ideas, categorized for your convenience:

Table of Contents

Psychology dissertation topics: cognitive psychology.

Cognitive psychology delves into the intricacies of how we think, remember, learn, perceive, solve problems, and use language. Here are 15 dissertation topics to consider:

  • The Role of Working Memory in Decision-Making
  • Cognitive Processes Behind Creativity
  • Neural Correlates of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • The Impact of Sleep on Cognitive Performance
  • The Psychology of Learning and Memory in Different Age Groups
  • Cognitive Biases in Decision-Making
  • Language Development in Bilingual Children
  • The Influence of Emotion on Cognitive Processing
  • Neural Plasticity and Cognitive Rehabilitation
  • Cognitive Aspects of Human-Computer Interaction
  • The Relationship Between Music and Cognitive Abilities
  • Cognitive Aging and Memory Decline
  • The Role of Executive Functions in Academic Achievement
  • Neuroimaging Studies of Cognitive Processes
  • Cognitive Factors in the Perception of Time

Clinical Psychology:

Clinical psychology focuses on diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

  • Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Treating Depression
  • The Impact of Early Intervention on Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Psychosocial Factors in Chronic Pain Management
  • Personality Disorders and Criminal Behavior
  • Integrating Technology in Mental Health Interventions
  • Cross-Cultural Perspectives on PTSD Treatment
  • The Role of Attachment in Therapeutic Relationships
  • Effects of Mindfulness Meditation on Anxiety Disorders
  • Therapeutic Applications of Virtual Reality in Exposure Therapy
  • Cultural Sensitivity in Eating Disorder Treatment
  • Group Therapy for Substance Abuse Recovery
  • Neurobiological Basis of Schizophrenia and Treatment Approaches
  • The Influence of Therapist Characteristics on Treatment Outcomes
  • Telehealth in Mental Health Services
  • Factors Affecting Adherence to Psychotherapy

Developmental Psychology:

Developmental psychology studies human development across the lifespan. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

  • Parental Influences on Childhood Attachment Patterns
  • Effects of Early Childhood Education on Cognitive Development
  • Identity Development in Adolescence
  • Parenting Styles and Academic Achievement
  • The Role of Sibling Relationships in Social Development
  • Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Adolescence
  • Developmental Trajectories of Moral Reasoning
  • Influence of Technology on Social Development in Children
  • The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Relationships
  • Gender Identity Development in Children
  • Attachment Theory and Peer Relationships
  • Cognitive and Social Development in Late Adulthood
  • The Influence of Culture on Parent-Child Interactions
  • Environmental Factors in Early Childhood Development
  • Developmental Changes in Emotional Regulation

Social Psychology:

Social psychology explores how individuals think, feel, and behave in social contexts. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

  • Social Media and Body Image Perception
  • The Psychology of Group Conformity
  • Stereotype Threat in Academic Settings
  • Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Prejudice and Discrimination
  • Impact of Social Support on Mental Health
  • The Role of Empathy in Prosocial Behavior
  • Social Influence in Decision-Making
  • Cultural Variations in the Perception of Happiness
  • Attitudes and Behaviors in Online Communities
  • Effects of Social Comparison on Well-Being
  • The Psychology of Online Dating and Relationship Formation
  • Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Aggression
  • Social Identity Theory and its Application in Society
  • The Impact of Social Media on Interpersonal Relationships
  • The Psychology of Altruism and Volunteerism

Personality Psychology:

Personality psychology investigates the patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that make individuals unique. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

  • Longitudinal Study of Personality Development in Adulthood
  • The Relationship Between Personality and Career Choice
  • Cultural Influences on Personality Traits
  • Personality Factors in Resilience and Coping
  • The Role of Personality in Romantic Relationships
  • Personality Disorders and Their Impact on Daily Functioning
  • Influence of Genetics on Personality Traits
  • Personality and Leadership Styles in Organizational Settings
  • Cultural Perspectives on the Self and Identity
  • The Role of Personality in Health Behaviors
  • Personality Traits and Online Behavior
  • Development of Personality in Early Childhood
  • Personality and Decision-Making Styles
  • Influence of Culture on Narcissism
  • Personality Factors in Coping with Stress

Abnormal Psychology:

Abnormal psychology studies unusual or unhealthy behavior and mental disorders. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

  • Cultural Variations in the Perception of Mental Health Stigma
  • The Role of Childhood Trauma in the Development of Mental Disorders
  • Neurobiological Factors in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
  • Psychosocial Factors in the Onset of Eating Disorders
  • Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Anxiety Disorders
  • The Psychology of Addictive Behaviors
  • Factors Influencing Treatment Adherence in Mental Health
  • Abnormal Psychology and Criminal Behavior
  • Impact of Social Isolation on Mental Health
  • The Role of Stigma in Help-Seeking Behaviors
  • Cultural Differences in the Experience of Grief and Loss
  • Cognitive and Emotional Aspects of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • The Influence of Culture on Somatization Disorders
  • Abnormal Psychology and Sleep Disorders
  • Therapeutic Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy in Mental Health

Biopsychology:

Biopsychology explores the biological basis of behavior and mental processes. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

  • The Impact of Hormones on Mood Regulation
  • Neuroplasticity and Recovery from Brain Injury
  • Genetics and the Predisposition of Mental Disorders
  • The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in Stress Response
  • Biological Basis of Addiction and Treatment Approaches
  • Neurotransmitter Imbalances in Mood Disorders
  • Brain Imaging Studies of Cognitive Processes
  • The Influence of Genetics on Cognitive Abilities
  • Psychophysiological Responses to Stress
  • Hormonal Changes in Perimenopausal Mental Health
  • Impact of Exercise on Brain Health
  • Genetic Markers of Resilience to Trauma
  • Neurobiology of Psychopathy
  • The Relationship Between Gut Microbiota and Mental Health
  • Epigenetic Influences on Behavioral Traits

Health Psychology:

Health psychology examines the relationship between psychological factors and physical health. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

  • The Impact of Stress on Immune Function
  • Health Beliefs and Preventive Health Behaviors
  • Cultural Perspectives on Health-Seeking Behaviors
  • Emotional Influences on Cardiovascular Health
  • The Role of Mind-Body Interventions in Chronic Illness
  • Health Psychology and Motivation for Healthy Lifestyle Choices
  • The Influence of Social Support on Health Outcomes
  • Cultural Differences in Coping with Chronic Illness
  • Behavioral Interventions for Smoking Cessation
  • The Psychology of Sleep and its Impact on Physical Health
  • Health Promotion in Diverse Populations
  • Factors Affecting Adherence to Medical Treatments
  • The Role of Psychological Factors in Weight Management
  • Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health in the Context of Physical Illness

Organizational Psychology:

Organizational psychology applies psychological principles to the workplace. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

  • Employee Motivation in the Era of Remote Work
  • Leadership Styles and Team Dynamics
  • Organizational Culture and Employee Well-Being
  • The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
  • Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
  • Job Satisfaction and Burnout in High-Stress Environments
  • Team Building and Communication in Virtual Teams
  • Psychological Factors in Employee Engagement
  • Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Organizational Behavior
  • Human Resource Management and Talent Development
  • Work-Life Balance and Employee Productivity
  • The Influence of Organizational Climate on Job Performance
  • The Psychology of Organizational Change
  • Employee Resilience and Coping with Workplace Stress
  • Organizational Psychology and the Future of Work

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Forensic Psychology:

Forensic psychology uses psychological knowledge in legal settings. Here are 15 dissertation topics in this field:

  • Psychological Profiling and Criminal Investigations
  • The Role of Eyewitness Testimony in Legal Proceedings
  • The Psychology of False Confessions
  • Evaluating Competency to Stand Trial
  • Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Juvenile Delinquency
  • Forensic Psychology and Risk Assessment
  • The Use of Technology in Forensic Mental Health Assessments
  • The Influence of Media on Perceptions of Criminal Behavior
  • Psychological Factors in Eyewitness Identification Accuracy
  • Therapeutic Approaches for Offender Rehabilitation
  • The Impact of Pretrial Publicity on Jury Decision-Making
  • Forensic Psychology and the Insanity Defense
  • The Role of Psychopathy in Criminal Behavior
  • Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Criminal Profiling
  • Ethical Considerations in Forensic Psychology Practice

Charting Your Course – How to Choose a Winning Dissertation Topic

Navigating the vast landscape of psychology can be exhilarating, but without a compass, you might end up lost in the undergrowth of obscure theories and irrelevant data. Here’s how to pick your perfect topic:

Choose Thorough Your line of Expertise

What sparks your curiosity in the world of psychology? Is it the intricate dance of memory, the complex tapestry of social interactions, or the deep well of human emotions?

Choose a topic that genuinely excites you, because passion fuels the long hours of research and analysis.

Align with Your Strengths:

Play to your natural talents . Are you a meticulous data analyst or a charismatic interviewer?

Find a topic that allows you to leverage your skills and make the most of your strengths.

Consider Feasibility:

Don’t set your sights on Mars when you have limited access to a telescope. Pick a topic with accessible data, manageable research methods, and realistic timelines.

Remember, quality trumps quantity, so a focused, achievable study is always better than a sprawling epic doomed to remain unfinished.

Consult Your Supervisor:

Your academic advisor is your Yoda in this journey. Discuss your interests, skills, and potential topics to receive valuable guidance and avoid venturing into dissertation dead ends.

Setting Blocks for Your Dissertation – What Should Be Included?

Now that you have your topic, it’s time to lay the foundation for your dissertation. Think of it as building a magnificent fortress of knowledge:

Your Research Question(s):

This is the driving force of your study. Craft clear, concise questions that are specific, feasible, and relevant to your chosen topic.

Literature Review:

Immerse yourself in existing research, building a strong foundation of knowledge on your topic. Identify any gaps, unanswered questions, or potential contradictions that your study can address.

Methodology:

Choose the right tools for the job! Will you conduct experiments, surveys, or interviews? Ensure your methods are rigorous, ethical, and aligned with your research questions.

The Tower of Analysis:

Data Analysis is where your findings take shape. Utilize appropriate statistical tools to interpret your data and draw meaningful conclusions.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Tie everything together! Discuss your findings in the context of existing research, highlight the implications of your study, and propose future avenues for exploration.

Can I customize these dissertation topics to suit my specific interests?

Absolutely! These topics serve as a starting point. Feel free to modify them based on your unique interests, ensuring a personalized and engaging research journey.

Is it essential to consult with my academic advisor before finalizing my dissertation topic?

Yes, your academic advisor plays a crucial role. Discussing your interests, skills, and potential topics with them provides valuable guidance and helps avoid potential pitfalls.

How do I ensure the feasibility of my chosen dissertation topic?

Consider the availability of accessible data, manageable research methods, and realistic timelines. Opt for a focused study that you can realistically complete with high quality.

What role does my dissertation play in the field of psychology?

Your dissertation is not just a document; it’s your intellectual legacy. It contributes to the body of knowledge in psychology, showcasing your dedication to advancing the field and leaving a lasting impact.

Your dissertation is more than just a paper; it represents your intellectual footprint in a rapidly changing field. Choosing your dissertation topic is more than just picking a path; it is the foundation of your intellectual legacy in psychology.

Whether you’re fascinated by cognitive challenges, untangling mental health mysteries, or deciphering organizational complexities, this rich trove of topics opens the door to transformative exploration.

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Student Notebook

Choosing a dissertation topic.

Graduate students may take several approaches to choosing a dissertation topic. While a perfunctory approach may hasten a degree, establishing a standard of quality will enable you to both advance the field and also evolve our own career. Eight steps are presented below to aid the graduate student in selecting a dissertation topic.

1. THE DISSERTATION TAKES PRIORITY. Following completion of comprehensive examinations and coursework, graduate students may often view their graduate education as almost over. On the contrary, the dissertation actually marks a new era of study. As a doctoral candidate, your procedural formalities are no longer dictated by faculty. Rather, you must examine the selected topic, create a timeline for its development, and alter your lifestyle to assure its completion.

2. PICK AN INTERESTING TOPIC. If your topic is simply your professor’s pet area, you should be aware the topic may lose appeal before it’s even “housebroken.” Furthermore, if your professor moves on to another interest area, you will be stranded and possibly unable to complete your work. Remember, this is a topic that should keep you engrossed and motivated for at least one to two years. Pick it as carefully as you would a new pair of dress shoes.

3. BE AWARE OF ONGOING RESEARCH. Many students may spend a year researching a topic before finally selecting one for their dissertation. You must examine current literature both specifically and generally. One way to do this is to contact key researchers to help you identify published and unpublished studies. Conduct periodic key word searches in computerized databases to identify new angles or problems associated with your topic. Keep in mind this is a daunting and interminable task, as new research is always evolving. Be sure your time is not monopolized studying new research at the expense of analyzing your own.

4. DEFINE YOUR CONSTRUCTS CLEARLY. Terms such as “memory,” “intelligence,” and “educational level” may derive different meanings among diverse psychological scientists. Evaluate your constructs and obtain references to support your construct definition. If your definition veers from the accepted literature, be prepared to defend the definitional defiance to your committee and reviewers who may later, hopefully, publish your results.

5. EVALUATE WHETHER YOUR TOPIC IS PUBLISHABLE. While reviewing the literature, determine if your completed project will “fit” the Zeitgeist of an existing journal. You should be able to place yourself in the desk of a reviewer and assess, with minimal doubt, whether or not your dissertation would enhance the integrity of a reputable journal.

6. EVALUATE YOUR TOPIC’S IMPORTANCE. Certainly your topic must be important to you, but it must also add to your field of interest. Your topic should offer additional insight into an existing problem, and offer an opportunity to demonstrate your level of expertise and quality of scholarship.

7. ESTABLISH GOOD COMMITTEE RELATIONSHIPS. Your dissertation committee will establish either a direct or de facto relationship with both you and your topic. Obtain feedback from committee members if they can offer specialized support or, if individual members have an area of interest that can be incorporated as a hypothesis subtopic, try to include a discussion of this somewhere in the dissertation. The more committee members who “own” a part of your topic, the more who will support your defense, leading you toward appropriate publication.

8. ESTABLISH A TIMELINE FOR COMPLETION. A timeline will further assist you in selecting your topic. Some projects may be completed in one year, while others may take two years or longer. Select a topic that will be manageable within the selected deadline parameter.

Of course there are many other questions not answered above: Is the project fundable? Will it pass IRB review? Should you use parametric or non-parametric statistics? What is an appropriate research design? These are all very important questions that will also require evaluation. Making a list of your questions and carving out proposed answers may prove helpful in this process.

Completing a dissertation requires careful planning and insight from choosing a topic to the final defense. Perhaps, the above suggestions will aid in not only identifying an appropriate topic, but also prompt completion of a project that will add to the field of psychological science.

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About the Author

SCOTT SMITH is a graduate student in educational psychology at Texas A&M University at Commerce. His research interests include flashbulb memories, autobiographical memories, and effects of processing on cognitive tasks.

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Research Topics & Ideas: Mental Health

100+ Mental Health Research Topic Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

If you’re just starting out exploring mental health topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research topic ideation process by providing a hearty list of mental health-related research topics and ideas.

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . To develop a suitable education-related research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan of action to fill that gap.

If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, if you’d like hands-on help, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Overview: Mental Health Topic Ideas

  • Mood disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Psychotic disorders
  • Personality disorders
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorders
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Substance-related disorders

Research topic idea mega list

Mood Disorders

Research in mood disorders can help understand their causes and improve treatment methods. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

  • The impact of genetics on the susceptibility to depression
  • Efficacy of antidepressants vs. cognitive behavioural therapy
  • The role of gut microbiota in mood regulation
  • Cultural variations in the experience and diagnosis of bipolar disorder
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder: Environmental factors and treatment
  • The link between depression and chronic illnesses
  • Exercise as an adjunct treatment for mood disorders
  • Hormonal changes and mood swings in postpartum women
  • Stigma around mood disorders in the workplace
  • Suicidal tendencies among patients with severe mood disorders

Anxiety Disorders

Research topics in this category can potentially explore the triggers, coping mechanisms, or treatment efficacy for anxiety disorders.

  • The relationship between social media and anxiety
  • Exposure therapy effectiveness in treating phobias
  • Generalised Anxiety Disorder in children: Early signs and interventions
  • The role of mindfulness in treating anxiety
  • Genetics and heritability of anxiety disorders
  • The link between anxiety disorders and heart disease
  • Anxiety prevalence in LGBTQ+ communities
  • Caffeine consumption and its impact on anxiety levels
  • The economic cost of untreated anxiety disorders
  • Virtual Reality as a treatment method for anxiety disorders

Psychotic Disorders

Within this space, your research topic could potentially aim to investigate the underlying factors and treatment possibilities for psychotic disorders.

  • Early signs and interventions in adolescent psychosis
  • Brain imaging techniques for diagnosing psychotic disorders
  • The efficacy of antipsychotic medication
  • The role of family history in psychotic disorders
  • Misdiagnosis and delayed treatment of psychotic disorders
  • Co-morbidity of psychotic and mood disorders
  • The relationship between substance abuse and psychotic disorders
  • Art therapy as a treatment for schizophrenia
  • Public perception and stigma around psychotic disorders
  • Hospital vs. community-based care for psychotic disorders

Research Topic Kickstarter - Need Help Finding A Research Topic?

Personality Disorders

Research topics within in this area could delve into the identification, management, and social implications of personality disorders.

  • Long-term outcomes of borderline personality disorder
  • Antisocial personality disorder and criminal behaviour
  • The role of early life experiences in developing personality disorders
  • Narcissistic personality disorder in corporate leaders
  • Gender differences in personality disorders
  • Diagnosis challenges for Cluster A personality disorders
  • Emotional intelligence and its role in treating personality disorders
  • Psychotherapy methods for treating personality disorders
  • Personality disorders in the elderly population
  • Stigma and misconceptions about personality disorders

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders

Within this space, research topics could focus on the causes, symptoms, or treatment of disorders like OCD and hoarding.

  • OCD and its relationship with anxiety disorders
  • Cognitive mechanisms behind hoarding behaviour
  • Deep Brain Stimulation as a treatment for severe OCD
  • The impact of OCD on academic performance in students
  • Role of family and social networks in treating OCD
  • Alternative treatments for hoarding disorder
  • Childhood onset OCD: Diagnosis and treatment
  • OCD and religious obsessions
  • The impact of OCD on family dynamics
  • Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Causes and treatment

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Research topics in this area could explore the triggers, symptoms, and treatments for PTSD. Here are some thought starters to get you moving.

  • PTSD in military veterans: Coping mechanisms and treatment
  • Childhood trauma and adult onset PTSD
  • Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) efficacy
  • Role of emotional support animals in treating PTSD
  • Gender differences in PTSD occurrence and treatment
  • Effectiveness of group therapy for PTSD patients
  • PTSD and substance abuse: A dual diagnosis
  • First responders and rates of PTSD
  • Domestic violence as a cause of PTSD
  • The neurobiology of PTSD

Free Webinar: How To Find A Dissertation Research Topic

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

This category of mental health aims to better understand disorders like Autism and ADHD and their impact on day-to-day life.

  • Early diagnosis and interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • ADHD medication and its impact on academic performance
  • Parental coping strategies for children with neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Autism and gender: Diagnosis disparities
  • The role of diet in managing ADHD symptoms
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders in the criminal justice system
  • Genetic factors influencing Autism
  • ADHD and its relationship with sleep disorders
  • Educational adaptations for children with neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders and stigma in schools

Eating Disorders

Research topics within this space can explore the psychological, social, and biological aspects of eating disorders.

  • The role of social media in promoting eating disorders
  • Family dynamics and their impact on anorexia
  • Biological basis of binge-eating disorder
  • Treatment outcomes for bulimia nervosa
  • Eating disorders in athletes
  • Media portrayal of body image and its impact
  • Eating disorders and gender: Are men underdiagnosed?
  • Cultural variations in eating disorders
  • The relationship between obesity and eating disorders
  • Eating disorders in the LGBTQ+ community

Substance-Related Disorders

Research topics in this category can focus on addiction mechanisms, treatment options, and social implications.

  • Efficacy of rehabilitation centres for alcohol addiction
  • The role of genetics in substance abuse
  • Substance abuse and its impact on family dynamics
  • Prescription drug abuse among the elderly
  • Legalisation of marijuana and its impact on substance abuse rates
  • Alcoholism and its relationship with liver diseases
  • Opioid crisis: Causes and solutions
  • Substance abuse education in schools: Is it effective?
  • Harm reduction strategies for drug abuse
  • Co-occurring mental health disorders in substance abusers

Research topic evaluator

Choosing A Research Topic

These research topic ideas we’ve covered here serve as thought starters to help you explore different areas within mental health. They are intentionally very broad and open-ended. By engaging with the currently literature in your field of interest, you’ll be able to narrow down your focus to a specific research gap .

It’s important to consider a variety of factors when choosing a topic for your dissertation or thesis . Think about the relevance of the topic, its feasibility , and the resources available to you, including time, data, and academic guidance. Also, consider your own interest and expertise in the subject, as this will sustain you through the research process.

Always consult with your academic advisor to ensure that your chosen topic aligns with academic requirements and offers a meaningful contribution to the field. If you need help choosing a topic, consider our private coaching service.

You Might Also Like:

Public health-related research topics and ideas

Good morning everyone. This are very patent topics for research in neuroscience. Thank you for guidance

Ygs

What if everything is important, original and intresting? as in Neuroscience. I find myself overwhelmd with tens of relveant areas and within each area many optional topics. I ask myself if importance (for example – able to treat people suffering) is more relevant than what intrest me, and on the other hand if what advance me further in my career should not also be a consideration?

MARTHA KALOMO

This information is really helpful and have learnt alot

Pepple Biteegeregha Godfrey

Phd research topics on implementation of mental health policy in Nigeria :the prospects, challenges and way forward.

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Psychology Undergraduate Program

  • Department of Psychology
  • Past & Current Theses

Current Approved Thesis Proposals

2023-24 Approved Thesis Proposals

2024-25 Approved Thesis Proposals

Lists of Past Theses

Class of 2023 /  2022 /  2021 /  2020  / 2019  /  2018 /  2017 /  2016 /  2015 /  2014 /  2013 /  2012 2011  /  2010  /  2009 /  2008 /  2007 /  2006  /  2005  /  2004  /  2003  /  2002 2001  (PDF)/  2000  (PDF) /  1999  (PDF) List of Prize-Winning Theses, 2001 - Present

Reading Sample Theses

As you prepare for your thesis, you might want to get a sense of what you can accomplish in your finished product. Reading past theses can show you the scope and nature of well-done undergraduate projects. Because theses in different areas of psychology often look quite different, it will help you to examine several in the same general area you plan to conduct your research in.

The Psychology Undergraduate Office has hard copies of several prize-winning theses from the past five years that you may sign out to see what the best undergraduate work looks like. Above, you can browse the titles of past undergraduate theses to give you an idea of the topics of theses students typically write.

Only hard copies of recent prize-winning theses are currently available.

Please note: Recent theses stored in the Social Relations Library (which recently closed) are unavailable. Inquirers needing a thesis that is not listed in HOLLIS should contact the authors of theses directly to attempt to obtain a copy.  

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  • 2025 May Thesis Deadlines

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Home > School, College, or Department > CLAS > Psychology > Dissertations and Theses

Psychology Dissertations and Theses

Theses/dissertations from 2024 2024.

Faculty Mentors' Influence on Latino/a/x STEM Undergraduates' STEM Identity Development , Sandy Cerda-Lezama

Individual and Structural Contributors to Implicit and Explicit Anti-Muslim Bias in the United States , Aeleah M. Granger

The Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Juvenile Offender Typology , Aliza Beth Lipman

The Wage of Wellness: The Relationship Between Socioeconomic Status, Race, and Work Recovery , Emily Julia Ready

It Takes a Village: An Examination of Social Relationships and Mental Health , Em Francis Trubits

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

Examining Factors Impacting the Service Needs of Unhoused Women , Holly Brott

Main, Mediated, and Moderated Effects of Participating in an After-School Social and Emotional Learning Program on Young Children's Development of Social-Emotional Skills , Amy L. Cordier

Who Puts the "Support" in Supportive Housing? The Impact of Housing Staff on Resident's Well-Being, and the Potential Moderating Role of Self-Determination , Kenna Estell Dickard

Motivation to Collaborate: A Qualitative Exploration of the Perspectives of Service Providers on an Alternative First Response Program , Desiree' J. DuBoise

Tell Me, Do You Feel It Too? A Meta-analysis of Dyadic Emotional Contagion in the Workplace , Stefanie Fox

Left on "Read" and All Alone: Instigated Cyber Incivility, Shame, and Experienced Ostracism at Work , Alison Lucia Hunt

Exploring Associations between Military Identity and Well-being Outcomes among Post-9/11 Veterans after Separation , James David Lee

Experiences of People with Serious Mental Illness Seeking Services at Community Mental Health Centers During the COVID-19 Pandemic , Emily Leickly

Why So Serious? Using the Belongingness Need Tenet from the Self-Determination Theory to Examine Workplace Humor and Its Outcomes , Katharine Lucille McMahon

Emotion Knowledge, Its Applications, and Their Associations With African American Children's Social Relationships With Teachers and Peers in Kindergarten and First Grade , Brielle Emily Petit

Stress-Reduction from Positive Support: Impacts of Receiving Partner Capitalization Support on Veteran Stress/Work Stress , MaryAnn Dona Samson

Diversity in Recruitment: The Role of Realistic Website Job Previews for Racial and Ethnic Minority Applicants , Jennifer Saucedo

Antecedents of FSSB: Evaluating the Demographic Basis of Support , Erika Ann Schemmel

A Daily Investigation of the Recovery Paradox: Examining the Dynamic Interplay of Workload, Recovery Experiences, and Microbreaks , Morgan Rose Taylor

Not on the Menu: Customer Sexual Harassment in the Restaurant Industry , Fernanda Wolburg Martinez

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Model.Disclose(): Examination of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Disclosure at Work , Timothy Allen Carsey

Transforming Learning Communities, Transforming Ourselves: A Qualitative Investigation of Identity Processes in a Participatory Action Research-themed Undergraduate Course , Julia Sara Dancis

Clarifying and Measuring Inclusive Leadership , Kelly Mason Hamilton

Intersections of Masculinity, Culturally Relevant Factors, and Intimate Partner Violence Perpetration Among Asian American Men , Jason Z. Kyler-Yano

Sleeping to Support: An Examination of the Relationship Between Leader Sleep and Positive Support Behaviors , Jordyn Jan Leslie

Work-Related IPV Among Latinos: Exploring the Roles of Fatherhood Status, Gendered Expectations, and Support for Intimate Partner's Employment , Adrian Luis Manriquez

Masculinity Instability and Ideologies as Predictors of IPV Perpetration: The Mediating Role of Relationship Power , Emma Christine Marioles O'Connor

The Benefits of Social Support on Health and Well-Being in Military Populations: Examining Mechanisms, Source of Support, and the Reach of a Workplace Well-Being Intervention , AnnaMarie Sophia O'Neill

Do Motives Matter? The Role of Motivation in Shaping the Impact of Mindfulness Training on Teachers' Psychological Distress and Wellbeing , Cristi N. Pinela

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

The Longitudinal Effects of a Family and Sleep Supportive Intervention on Service Member Anger and Resilience , Shalene Joyce Allen

Drug Conviction and Employment Restriction: Experiences of Employees with Drug-Related Criminal Histories , Liana Bernard

Sustaining Boys' Motivation Over the Transition to Middle School: Can Interpersonal Resources Protect Boys from Engagement Declines Across Sixth Grade? , Brandy Anne Brennan

Returning to Rejection: Outcomes and Boundary Conditions of Mental Illness Stereotypes , Stefanie Fox

Guarding Against Strain: The Moderating Role of Nonwork Experiences in the Relationship Between Work-Related Hypervigilance and Strain in Correctional Officers , Samantha Getzen

Anti-Muslim Bias: Investigating Individual Differences, Threat Perceptions, and Emotions in Islamophobic Policy Support , Aeleah M. Granger

Black Children's Development of Self-Regulation within Stressful Contexts of Parenting: Investigating Potential Buffering Effects of a Kindergarten Social-Emotional Learning Program , Eli Labinger

"Like I Was an Actual Researcher": Participation and Identity Trajectories of Underrepresented Minority and First-Generation STEM Students in Research Training Communities of Practice , Jennifer Lynn Lindwall

Claiming Miscommunication to Justify Rape: The Role of Liking the Perpetrator , Alyssa Marie Glace Maryn

An "I" for an "I" : A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Instigated and Reciprocal Incivility , Lauren Sarah Park

Parenting and Children's Academic Coping as a Dynamic System: Feedforward, Feedback, and Mediators of Changes Across the School Year , Kristen Elizabeth Raine

Does Experiencing Spousal Support and Strain Impact the Quality of Family-Based Support that Supervisors Provide to Employees? , Joseph Alvin Sherwood

"B-ing Flexible" : Examining Creativity in Bisexual Employees , Megan Jane Snoeyink

Exploring the Relationships Between Community Experiences and Well-Being among Youth Experiencing Homelessness , Katricia Stewart

Mothers' Drinking Motives , Sheila Kathleen Umemoto

An Examination of Nurses' Schedule Characteristics, Recovery from Work, and Well-Being , Sarah Elizabeth Van Dyck

Preventing Sexual Violence Through Understanding Perceptions of Sexual Offenders , Judith G. Zatkin

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Examining Employee Needs at Work and Home: a Self-Determination Theory Perspective , Dana Anuhea Auten

Trajectories, Time Windows, and Alternative Pathways of Engagement: Motivational Resources Underlying Academic Development during Middle School , Heather Anne Brule

Examining Mindfulness Training for Teachers: Theoretical and Methodological Extensions of Intervention Effectiveness , Jaiya Rae Choles

Detecting Reinforcement Patterns in the Stream of Naturalistic Observations of Social Interactions , James Lamar DeLaney 3rd

An Investigation of the Temporal Relationship Between Agitation and Sleep Disturbances , Emily Catherine Denning

Peers' Academic Coping as a Resource for Academic Engagement and Motivational Resilience in the First Year of Middle School , Daniel Lee Grimes

Home Resources Supporting Workplace Resources: an Investigation of Moderated Intervention Effects From the Study for Employment Retention of Veterans (SERVe) , Sarah Nielsen Haverly

"It Puts a Face to All the Knowledge We've Gotten" : a Program of Research on Intimate Partner Violence Surrogate Impact Panels , Kate Louise Sackett Kerrigan

A Daily Examination of Anger and Alcohol Use Among Post-9/11 Veterans , James David Lee

An Examination of Daily Family-Supportive Supervisor Behaviors, Perceived Supervisor Responsiveness and Job Satisfaction , Luke Daniel Mahoney

Nurse Can't Even: the Immediate Impact of Incivility on Affect, Well-being, and Behavior , Katharine Lucille McMahon

Perceptions of Police Use of Force at the Intersection of Race and Pregnancy , Emma Elizabeth Lee Money

The Impact of Paternal Caregivers for Youth Who Commit Sexual Offenses , Miranda Hope Sitney

Human Energy in the Workplace: an Investigation of Daily Energy Management Strategies, Job Stressors and Employee Outcomes , Morgan Rose Taylor

Individual and Community Supports that Impact Community Inclusion and Recovery for Individuals with Serious Mental Illnesses , Rachel Elizabeth Terry

Investigating Sexual Fantasy and Sexual Behavior in Adolescent Offenders , Hayley Lauren Tews

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Integrating Work Ability into the Organizational Science Literature: Advancing Theory and Developing the Nomological Network , Grant Brady

Family Linked Workplace Resources and Contextual Factors as Important Predictors of Job and Individual Well-being for Employees and Families , Jacquelyn Marie Brady

The Role of Teacher Autonomy Support Across the Transition to Middle School: its Components, Reach, and Developmental Effects , Julia Sara Dancis

Does X Mark the Applicant? Assessing Reactions to Gender Non-Binary Job Seekers , Kelly Mason Hamilton

Urbanicity as a Moderator of the Relationship Between Stigma and Well-being Outcomes for Individuals with Serious Mental Illnesses , Emily Leickly

The Relationship Between Undergraduate Research Training Programs and Motivational Resources for Underrepresented Minority Students in STEM: Program Participation, Self-efficacy, a Sense of Belonging, and Academic Performance , Jennifer Lindwall

Perceived Partner Responsiveness, Sleep and Pain: a Dyadic Study of Military-Connected Couples , AnnaMarie Sophia O'Neill

Recruitment Marketing: How Do Wellness and Work-Life Benefits Influence Employer Image Perceptions, Organizational Attraction, and Job Pursuit Intentions? , Amy Christine Pytlovany

The Combined Effects of Parent and Teacher Involvement on the Development of Adolescents' Academic Engagement , Nicolette Paige Rickert

Examining the Development and Classroom Dynamics of Student Disaffection Over Multiple Time Periods: Short-term Episodes and Long-term Trajectories , Emily Anne Saxton

Drinking on a Work Night: a Comparison of Day and Person-Level Associations with Workplace Outcomes , Brittnie Renae Shepherd

Development and Validation of the Workplace Mental Illness Stigma Scale (W-MISS) , Nicholas Anthony Smith

Relational Thriving in Context: Examining the Roles of Gratitude, Affectionate Touch, and Positive Affective Variability in Health and Well-Being , Alicia Rochelle Starkey

Preventing Child Sexual Abuse and Juvenile Offending Through Parental Monitoring , Kelly E. Stewart

"To Call or Not to Call?" The Impact of Supervisor Training on Call Center Employee Attitudes and Well-Being , Whitney Elan Schneider Vogel

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

The Impact of Leader Race and Gender on Perceptions of Organizations in Response to Corporate Error , Nicolas Derek Brown

Impacts of Mindfulness Training on Mechanisms Underlying Stress Reduction in Teachers: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial , Jaiya Rae Choles

Student Motivation Profiles as a Diagnostic Tool to Help Teachers Provide Targeted Support , Cailin Tricia Currie

Insufficient Effort Responding on Mturk Surveys: Evidence-Based Quality Control for Organizational Research , Lee Cyr

Affirmative Consent Endorsement and Peer Norms Supporting Sexual Violence Among Vulnerable Students on College Campuses , Alyssa Marie Glace

Gendered Partner-Ideals, Relationship Satisfaction, and Intimate Partner Violence , Sylvia Marie Ferguson Kidder

Organizational Calling and Safety: the Role of Workload and Supervisor Support , Layla Rhiannon Mansfield

Bystander Intervention to Prevent Campus Sexual Violence: the Role of Sense of Community, Peer Norms, and Administrative Responding , Erin Christine McConnell

Benevolent Sexism and Racial Stereotypes: Targets, Functions, and Consequences , Jean Marie McMahon

Perceived Overqualification and Withdrawal Among Seasonal Workers: Would Work Motivation Make a Difference? , Anthony Duy Nguyen

Differential Well-Being in Response to Incivility and Surface Acting among Nurses as a Function of Race , Lauren Sarah Park

Financial Strain and the Work-Home Interface: a Test of the Work-Home Resources Model from the Study for Employment Retention of Veterans (SERVe) , MacKenna Laine Perry

Neighbor Perceptions of Psychiatric Supportive Housing : the Role of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors , Amy Leigh Shearer

The Role of Caregiver Disruption in the Development of Juvenile Sexual Offenders , Miranda Sitney

Intrapersonal and Social-Contextual Factors Related to Psychological Well-being among Youth Experiencing Homelessness , Katricia Stewart

Age-based Differences in the Usefulness of Resources: a Multi-Study Investigation of Work and Well-being Outcomes , Lale Muazzez Yaldiz

Pathways to Kindergarten Growth: Synthesizing Theories of the Kindergarten Transition to Support Children's Development , Rita Yelverton

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

The Force of Manhood: the Consequences of Masculinity Threat on Police Officer Use of Force , Aurelia Terese Alston

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Popular Psychology Dissertation Topics (2023) You Wish You Had Known Earlier!

Psychology Dissertation Topics

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What are some good psychology dissertation ideas here’s the answer, social psychology research topics, clinical psychology dissertation topics for good grades, forensic psychology dissertation title for acquiring an a+, sport psychology dissertation topics to ace your grades, a list of best health psychology dissertation topics, inspiring educational psychology dissertation ideas to secure grades, cognitive psychology dissertation ideas for scoring high grades, developmental psychology dissertation topics examples, evolutionary psychology dissertation titles for a guaranteed a+, abnormal psychology dissertation topics for an a+ worthy document, who can write my psychology dissertation the phd-certified writers will.

Psychology dissertation writing is a continuous battle between students and their writing, reading, proofreading, and editing expertise. And, students have no choice but to win the fight if they wish to pass their course with flying colours. However, shortlisting unique psychology dissertation topics is half battle won. Yes, you read it right! Once you have decided on the idea/topic, all you have to do is implement the required skills.

Hello, dissertation warriors! Welcome to the blog, which highlights the most compelling topics related to social psychology, clinical

psychology, forensic psychology, cognitive psychology and other types of psychology academic disciplines.

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Psychology is a study centred around the inter-relationship between mind and behaviour. The subject has an immense scope as it covers many areas of the academic field. However, acquiring a degree in the course requires a student to submit a well-researched academic paper having an impressive psychology dissertation title. And this is where the problem lies. If you are wondering, “Which are the best topics for writing a dissertation on psychology?” Then, the subsequent section contains your answer.

The branch of psychology revolves around the impact of surroundings on an individual's emotions, behaviour, and thoughts. Moreover, the presence of others mainly influences a person's action and decision-making process, which is further analyzed by qualitative research findings. Moving on further, here are a few social psychology dissertation ideas to catch your professor's eye:

  • A detailed study on Behaviour Stimulus Interaction (BSI)
  • How has globalization affected the human relationship? (Support with arguments)
  • A qualitative analysis of Behavioral Game Theory & its importance in strategic thinking Family plays a vital role in developing non-verbal communication in toddlers.
  • A comprehensive research paper discussing the influence of social pressure on the morale of an individual
  • Childhood bullying & its effect on socio-psychological behaviour
  • Pros and cons of intimate cross-cultural relationship

The academic sub-discipline aims to produce individuals who can deal with people suffering from mental and behavioural problems like addiction, depression, and relationship problems, to name a few. The subject shelters different practices and methods for relieving the sufferer's pain. Furthermore, below are some clinical psychology dissertation topic examples you should not miss. Keep scrolling to know more!

  • A comparative analysis of various alcohol addiction preventions (in reference to UK citizens)
  • An in-depth analysis of early signs of anxiety disorders in UK teenagers
  • An overview of the cognitive-behavioural theory
  • Elaboration of factors that influence the mental health of adolescents
  • An investigation of the impact of domestic violence in the behaviour of the students (Comment your views)
  • How has social media changed the way humans behave and interact?
  • Elucidate on different kinds of clinical psychology therapies

Also Read:  Stuck with Dissertation Topic? Move Ahead in 8 Easy Steps

The subject implies the psychological theories for the investigation of criminal cases. The two main aspects of forensic psychology are- first, understanding the psychological behaviour of the criminal and second, the treatment of the criminal. Undoubtedly, the subject has high career opportunities. Moreover, a list of the best forensic psychology dissertation ideas is shared below:

  • How has the Internet and other sources of entertainment affected the crime rate in the UK?
  • What are the key factors related to the mass killing in the UK? (Comment your views)
  • Society neglects the domestic violence faced by men. An in-depth analysis of the same
  • An overview of the importance of rehabilitation in decreasing the criminal rates
  • A research-oriented study on the latest advancement in the field of forensic psychology
  • How are poverty and injustice uplifting the number of criminal cases in the UK?
  • A brief study on the illicit tablet recognition system

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Psychological theories and practices play a crucial role in improving the performance and motivation of athletes, and this is the central idea of the subject. Also, the subject highlights how sports participation can help develop a solid relationship between mind and brain. Are you searching, “What are some great topic for psychology dissertation writing?” If yes, then below is the solution for the same.

  • Effective ways to heal sports injuries (support the topic with demonstrations)
  • How sport psychology can help in developing leadership qualities among the athletes
  • How the gender of the coach affect the performance of the players?
  • Aggression: Pros and cons in sports
  • A brief study on various types of exercises effective for elderly sportsmen
  • An investigation of the diseases most commonly suffered by the gymnasts
  • Role of meditation in improving the athlete’s performance

This field of research and study is rapidly expanding because health psychologists cure and prevent illness and disease and promote health. Choosing a  health psychology dissertation topic  is challenging because of the vastness of the area, but uncovering untapped ideas is easier than you would believe. Here we have compiled a list of underutilised health psychology dissertation ideas for you to get started:

  • Dealing with a terminal condition and a request for assisted suicide
  • The application of play therapy to traumatised children: Is it also capable of blocking the brain's perception of physical pain?
  • Self-esteem issues: Making the relationship between poor self-esteem and suicide disappear
  • The first man on the moon: Why isn't there a treatment for the common cold? Is there one? Withholding known remedies have ethical ramifications.
  • A comparison study of the psychopathology concerns in bulimia, anorexia, and binge eating
  • The disaster's aftermath: Front-line first responders' effective coping techniques
  • Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: The Psychological Consequences of Ignoring Infant Sleep Safety Guidelines

It is now time to select the  educational psychology dissertation ideas . The following are the inspirational educational psychology dissertation topics for you to ace your dissertation by producing a powerful dissertation that will contribute to improving the education system, students, and instructors. Let’s have a look.

  • An in-depth examination of social and emotional development in primary school in the United Kingdom.
  • An examination of the use of technology in the classroom and its impact on student learning in the United Kingdom.
  • Case study of arithmetic sense development and its link to mathematical success among primary pupils in the United States
  • Memory function and its impact on educational quality
  • The advantages and disadvantages of immersion and communicative methods to language learning
  • What IQ tests assess and why they are frequently incorrect

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This branch of psychology deals with internal mental processes. Factors related to attention, perception, problem-solving, learning, etc., are studied in this sub-discipline. Unfortunately, the majority of UK students seeking psychology assignment help are the ones who fail to choose an exciting idea. If you also fall in the same category of students, then the time has come to an end your worry once and for all.

  • Role of multilingual environment in enhancingthe linguistic skills
  • Importance of visual illusions in improving the understanding related to perpetual processes
  • A research paper on Network Neuroscience Theory
  • A comparative analysis of different cognitive therapies & their importance in fighting depression
  • Cultural differences: Its impact on the mental health of UK teenagers
  • How can playing video games influence the cognitive behaviour of an individual?
  • Past to present: A gradual shift in the cognitive processes over the years

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As the name suggests, developmental psychology focuses on the progress of psychological behaviour experienced by an individual during his life. Personality, identity formation, emotions, etc., are some traits which witnesses transformation. The subject looks attractive at first, but all the enthusiasm vanishes when a student fails to select a popular topic for dissertation writing. Wondering, “How to complete the psychology assignment on time?” If yes, then have a look at the compelling titles.

  • The role played by sex hormones in the development of the brain during the puberty age
  • The new-born babies of the modern world are smarter. Support with arguments
  • Impact of music on the learning power of the students
  • How has obesity affected the mental health of individuals over the period of time?
  • Packaging nutritious food attractively will encourage teenagers to eat healthy food. Comment your views
  • Tangible Reinforcement Vs Social Reinforcement: Which one is better for helping students to finish their homework
  • Do mental games really improve the cognitive skill of students?

The sub-field of psychology is the scientific study which examines the change in human behaviour due to the psychological adjustment made during evolution. The subject brings a vast course, and therefore, students face difficulty in choosing the right topic for psychology dissertation writing. But, you need not worry, as below is the list of trending topics that will help you score top grades.

  • A qualitative analysis of evolutionary game theory
  • A research paper on the evolution of sexual recombination
  • A case study on the principle of evolutionary psychology
  • Friendship & deep engagement relationship: An overview
  • Predator-prey reasoning: An in-depth analysis
  • Philosophy & evolutionary psychology go hand in hand. Comment your views
  • A comparative analysis of the theoretical foundation of evolutionary psychology

It is the branch of psychology that deals with emotional and mental disorders. The subject uses clinical measures for dealing with various conditions, such as phobia, anxiety, and depression, to name a few. Unfortunately, according to a recent survey, 59.67% of the students fail to draft an impeccable piece of paper as they are incapable of shortlisting an exciting yet informative topic. To help such students, here is a list of famous psychology dissertation topic examples.

  • An in-depth research on Schizophrenia
  • Normal vs abnormal personality: A comparative analysis
  • How to classify and diagnose the psychological abnormality
  • A qualitative study on the history of abnormal psychology
  • A brief study on abnormal & clinical psychology
  • List of various approaches & practices related to abnormal psychology
  • How to deal with anxiety disorders?

This brings us to the end of the blog. Scrolling so far, you must have known the  best psychology dissertation topics  to impress your college professor. However, if you still fail to prepare an informative case due to inadequate writing, researching, proofreading, and editing expertise consider availing yourself of psychology dissertation help from the experts of the Assignment Desk.

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70 Unique Psychology Essay Topics for Your Next Assignment

Sometimes, it seems like coming up with unique psychology essay topics is more challenging than writing an essay itself. Psychology is a broad subject, so choosing a topic that allows you to cover the subject in depth without being stressed with information is important. A good topic not only captures the interest of the readers but also contributes meaningfully to their field of study.

In-depth research for psychology essays is important for the expansion of the understanding of human behaviour and for the treatment of various psychological conditions. Students feel burdened by the pressure of picking something new and important for their work. It leaves them feeling unsure of the approach to adopt for picking the right essay topics on psychology. During such times, you can get timely advice from your teachers, peers or expert essay writers online .

This blog explores the 70 best psychology essay topics that you can use to craft your essay papers. You can dive right in and start working on your homework after choosing a suitable topic for yourself.

A List of Trending Psychology Research Essay Topics

Whether you are a high schooler who is looking for essay topics in psychology or a college student in search of a compelling title for your paper, this piece of writing has got you covered. We have divided this list of essay topics about psychology into 7 different categories. Students at any academic level can benefit from these lists; there is something for everyone to engage with.

All of these topics for psychology essays are research-based and are related to the modern age psychology research problems. Let’s explore them in detail.

Biological Psychology Essay Topics

Sometimes known as behavioural neuroscience, biological psychology focuses on the study of neurotransmitters and the brain. Bio psychologists examine how these transmitters influence the feelings, behaviours, and thoughts of human beings. They also see how different biological processes interact with the cognitive functions of a person. If you are assigned to write an essay on this subject, but you can’t find any suitable topic, some of the best and trending biology psychology essay topics are listed here for your help:

  • Explain the functioning of the endocrine system in detail and highlight how the hormones and glands actually work.
  • What is the effect of people's multicultural background on their identity?
  • Explore in detail the relationships between human beings and the electromagnetic fields.
  • What is the impact of young maternal age on the cognitive and psychological effects, and how does it affect the elements of child development?
  • Describe in detail the importance of health psychology when it comes to understanding the concept of diseases and health.
  • To what extent can education be said to assume the scientific development that has been achieved in the study of biological integrity?
  • What exactly is the neuroscience of addiction? Explain the circuitry and reward pathways of the brain.
  • Explore the role played by hormones in controlling the social behaviour and aggression of individuals.
  • What are the ethical considerations related to the usage of animal models in the field of biological psychology research?
  • How are epigenetics and behaviour related to each other? Highlight the concept of interactions between the environment and genes.

Clinical Psychology Essay Topics

The clinical psychology research is often considered synonymous with counselling psychology. It is a discipline that is focused on the diagnosis, assessment, treatment and prevention of different emotional, mental and psychological disorders in different individuals. Here are the ten best clinical psychology essay topics that you can pick and use for your homework:

  • What are the assessment options, diagnosis and treatment methods for anxiety plus other personality disorders in people?
  • What is the impact of social media on how people behave and interact with each other?
  • Explore the effect of ageing on mental illnesses. What particular challenges are faced by the old people who are diagnosed with mental health problems?
  • Enlist the medications, therapy and psychosocial interventions associated with Schizophrenia.
  • Explore in detail the impact of violence shown in media and video games on the behaviour of children.
  • What kinds of therapy are found to be most suitable for people having behavioural issues since their childhood?
  • Highlight the significance of anxiety disorders and their effect on the daily functioning of humans. Are there any new therapies available that can cure this problem?
  • What are the ways in which the social and political climates of an environment affect the mental health of an individual?
  • How does the substance use disorder impact a family, and how can the family members help with the treatment of the disorder?
  • Is online therapy effective? Enlist its pros and cons and explore how people with no technical literacy can navigate it.

Cognitive Psychology Essay Topics

As a student of cognitive psychology, you will have to develop a systematic understanding of different cognitive processes. Since writing on such psychology topics is a bit tough, you can buy essay online from cognitive psychologists who write academic papers for students. Here are some of the best and trending cognitive psychology essay topics to consider for your work:

  • What is the relationship between the cognitive psychology, positive psychology and the humanist psychology?
  • Describe in detail some of the crucial cognitive aspects that are vital for decision-making in medical ethics.
  • What is the relationship between memory consolidation and sleep? Provide a detailed meta-analysis.
  • Investigate the effect of bilingualism on the executive functioning and cognitive flexibility of humans.
  • What are the cognitive mechanisms that are associated with the placebo effects? Explain in detail.
  • Analyse in detail the impact of socio-economic status on the cognitive performance of British students in the modern age.
  • Are there any cognitive differences in the decision-making skills of non-entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs? If yes, what are those?
  • Does sleep deprivation affect the cognitive performance of the students? Explain the reasons in further depth.
  • What is the reason behind the premature ageing of some people? Present a perspective from cognitive psychology.
  • How have the attention spans of children changed for the last 100 years? Support your answer with examples.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics Psychology

How about plunging into some exciting argumentative essay topics psychology for your homework? In such compare and contrast essays, you provide a comparison of similarities and dissimilarities for both sides of the subject. The key points of both sides should be strong enough to convince the readers. Here are some of the psychology essay topics which you can use for the contrast essays:

  • Behaviourism versus Gestalt psychology
  • Cognitive behavioural therapy versus Freudian psychoanalysis
  • Self-determination theory versus self-efficacy theory
  • Biomedical model of health and illness versus biopsychosocial model
  • Self-perception theory versus cognitive dissonance theory
  • Milgram experiment versus Stanford Prison experiment
  • Environmental versus biological factors in mental health disorders
  • Social cognitive theory versus social learning theory
  • The effect of nurture versus nature on the development of human personality
  • Operant conditioning versus classical conditioning

Criminal Psychology Essay Topics

This branch of psychology refers to the observation of the intentions, thoughts, and actions of criminals. Criminal psychology students strive to understand the motives of criminals for committing crimes and attempt to study their minds. Here are some of the latest trending criminal psychology essay topics for you to review and use for your college and university papers:

  • Explore the basic determinants of the incidents where a murder is committed. Provide sufficient examples and the investigative study of the serial killers.
  • What are the social factors which change the naïve people into criminals? Explain in depth.
  • Are there any loopholes in the criminal justice system that actively promote crime in our society? Discuss the social disparities between the rich and the poor.
  • What is the impact of natural disasters on the increase in social crimes? Provide a case study of criminal behaviour psychology during the period of Corona.
  • Analyse the role played by social media in inciting crimes. Provide case studies of hate speeches that were made in public and support your stance.
  • What are the general sentiments of the serial rapists? Highlight and support with examples.
  • Does pornography and vulgarity promote the rape culture in a society?
  • Provide a qualitative analysis of the different development stages of criminal mindset in a society.
  • How can you control or trickle down the harmful effects of crimes taking place in a community?
  • Is poverty a driving force behind the increasing crime rate in a country, especially in the impoverished societies of developing countries?

Developmental Psychology Essay Topics

Topics in this field of study range from prenatal development of childhood life to the final stages of the life of a person. It is a broad field that involves the study of how people change throughout their lives. Some of the developmental psychology essay topics that you can use for writing your academic papers are listed here:

  • What is the effect of different parenting styles on the personality development and the behaviour of children?
  • Do factors like peer influence and socialisation impact the process of identity formation in the human mind?
  • What are the developmental trajectories related to the mental health problems, chronic pain, and other disorders faced by people in their adolescence?
  • Explore in detail the diagnosis and intervention strategies related to the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders in the kids.
  • Describe in detail the impact of early childhood education on the academic achievements and problem-solving skills of young kids.
  • Explain in detail the concept of cognitive development in infancy from the Vygotskian and Piagetian perspectives.
  • Do the students who eat breakfast daily perform better in their classes than the students who do not have breakfast regularly?
  • What is the impact of bullying on the achievements of students? Are bullied students more likely to get bad grades than students who are not bullied in school?
  • How can technology be used for the social and emotional development of humans in the period of their adolescence?
  • What is the impact of social media on forming body image in the minds of teenagers?

Educational Psychology Essay Topics

Educational psychology covers topics related to children staying in educational settings. It covers topics like aptitude assessment, self-motivation, parental involvement, technology, teaching methods and more. A good essay on such topics informs the readers about learning styles, cognitive development, and impactful teaching strategies. Here are some psychological topics for essays in the field of psychology:

  • Is it beneficial for children to use different educational and high-quality teaching methods at different times of the day?
  • Does the duration and quality of sleep really impact the academic performance of students?
  • Can daily medication at school influence the mental health and academic performance of students?
  • What is the impact of regularly listening to classical music on the test scores of a student?
  • What is the connection between knowledge retention and sugar consumption ratios among students?
  • Explore the effectiveness of the interventions encompassing positive behaviours for the reduction of disruptions in the classroom.
  • Assess the effect of Brexit on the educational experiences of international students in the United Kingdom.
  • What is the relationship between the educational outcomes and the socio-economic disparities in the UK? Discuss in detail.
  • Analyse the role of cultural diversity in shaping the classroom dynamics in the schools of 3 rd world countries.
  • Provide a critical analysis of the impact of literature on parental involvement and student success.

You can choose from a diverse range of psychology essay topics that we have added in this article. You can also overlap and intersect various specialities and craft research questions for your next assignment. From clinical studies to cognitive psychology, each detailed essay focuses on a deeper understanding of human behaviour. It is important to understand the relevance of these research questions and give the readers insight across different areas of study.

If you want personalised help with the fulfilment of your homework requirements, you should hire psychology essay writing services in the UK from The Academic Papers UK. Their seasoned writing experts are best suited to cater to the needs of clients across the globe, and they can craft essay assignments tailored to your needs.

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Clinical Psychology Dissertation Topics

Published by Owen Ingram at January 3rd, 2023 , Revised On August 11, 2023

Clinical psychology is a highly popular area of research for Masters and PhD nursing students. A well-thought-out and appropriate clinical psychology dissertation topic will address trending issues in the field of clinical psychology. You can develop a clinical psychology dissertation topic or idea by addressing a certain clinical experience.

If you are a nursing student looking for an intriguing topic in clinical psychology, you will find all the necessary information on this page. So without further ado, here is our selection of clinical psychology dissertation topics that you can choose from.

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  • How to Identify and Differentiate Treatment-Resistant Depression?
  • Understanding the Reasons People Join the Military
  • Comprehensive Treatment for Postpartum Mood Disorders
  • Using a Meaning-Making Process to Cope with Death
  • What Kind of Relationship Do Teenagers Have with Video Games?
  • Depression vs ADHD in Young Children
  • Severe and Chronic Mental Illness and Life Quality
  • Analyze the views of cancer patients suffering from advanced stages and their partners
  • What therapy is available to treat panic attacks and anxiety disorders?
  • What treatments and medications work best to treat addiction?
  • Describe the many medical approaches to treating insomnia
  • Analyze the efficacy of antidepressant medications in therapeutic interventions
  • Describe the most successful depression treatments
  • How does post-traumatic stress disorder develop?
  • Antidepressants: are they addictive? Describe their efficacy and any possible negative effects
  • Is behavioural therapy the ideal kind of care for offenders?
  • How could psychology be used to treat persistent pain?
  • What clinical and demographic factors cause individuals with obsessions and compulsions to have poor insight?
  • The educational process for clinical psychologists who sought out personal therapy: a narrative assessment
  • Dialysis patients’ psycho-social adjustment to their cases of renal failure and the resulting treatment
  • Within a bio-psycho-social paradigm of a psychosis episode, the experiences connected to the psycho-social formulation
  • The experiences and how they relate to eating habits in maturity
  • A cognitive paradigm for assessing major depressive disorder
  • The difficulties in communicating sexual dysfunction symptoms after a heart injury
  • What are the main causes of adult anorexia?
  • Examine major depressive disorder (MDD) in the context of cognitive theory
  • Describe the communication obstacles caused by sexual dysfunction after cardiac trauma
  • What relationship exists between adult eating habits and experiences?
  • Investigate the idea of body image and identity in people who have had a heart or lung transplant
  • Describe the clinical and demographic characteristics that predict insight in people with compulsions and obsessions
  • Define schizophrenia and list possible treatments
  • What drugs and therapies can be used to treat phobias and paranoia?

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Something is mesmerising about the human mind. By writing clinical psychology-based dissertation papers, students can engage in formally conducting research on a variety of topics, including intellect, personality, addiction, relationship dynamics, and so on. Use these clinical psychology dissertation topics to start your academic research now!

If you are struggling with your dissertation and need a helping hand, you may want to read about our dissertation writing services.

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How to find clinical psychology dissertation topics.

To find Clinical Psychology dissertation topics:

  • Study recent research in the field.
  • Focus on emerging therapies or disorders.
  • Address gaps in current literature.
  • Consider ethical and practical aspects.
  • Explore diverse populations or age groups.
  • Seek topics aligning with your passion and expertise.

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Some mice may owe their monogamy to a newly evolved type of cell

What makes the oldfield mouse steadfastly monogamous throughout its life while its closest rodent relatives are promiscuous? The answer may be a previously unknown hormone-generating cell, according to a new study published online today in Nature from scientists at Columbia's Zuckerman Institute.

"The hormone from these cells was actually first discovered in humans many decades ago, but nobody really knew what it did," said Andrés Bendesky, MD, PhD, a principal investigator at Columbia's Zuckerman Institute. "We've discovered that it can promote nurturing in mice, which gives us an idea of what it might be doing in humans."

The new study investigated two species of mice. One is the most abundant mammal in North America -- the deer mouse ( Peromyscus maniculatus ), which ranges from Alaska to Central America. The other, the oldfield mouse ( Peromyscus polionotus ), lives in Florida and Georgia, and is a bit smaller, weighing in at roughly 13 grams compared with the deer mouse's 18 grams.

More than 100 years of previous research has shown that the mice species behave in strikingly different ways. Whereas the deer mouse is promiscuous -- even a single litter of pups can have four different fathers -- the oldfield mouse mates for life.

However, prior work also suggested these species are evolutionary siblings, based on similarities in their skulls, teeth and other anatomical features, as well as their genetics. To find out why these close mouse relatives behave so differently, the scientists examined their adrenal glands.

"This pair of organs, located in the abdomen, produces many hormones important for behavior," said Dr. Bendesky, who is also an assistant professor of ecology, evolution and environmental biology at Columbia University. "These include stress hormones such as adrenaline, but also a number of sex hormones."

The adrenal glands of these mice proved startlingly different in size. In adults, the adrenals of the monogamous mice are roughly six times heavier than those of promiscuous mice (after adjusting for differences in the body weight between the species).

"This extraordinary difference in the size of an internal organ between such closely related species is unprecedented," Dr. Bendesky said.

Genetic analysis of the adrenal cells revealed that one gene, Akr1c18 , saw far more activity in the monogamous mice than in the promiscuous rodents. The enzyme this gene encodes helps create a little-studied hormone known as 20⍺-OHP, which is also found in humans and other mammals.

The researchers observed that increasing 20⍺-OHP hormone boosted nurturing behavior in both mouse species. For instance, 17 percent of the promiscuous mice who were given the hormone groomed their pups and brought them back to their nests, whereas none behaved this way if not given the hormone.

"This marks the first time we found anything that could increase parental care in the promiscuous group," Dr. Bendesky said.

Normally these glands are divided into three zones. But the scientists discovered that the adrenals of the monogamous mice possessed a fourth zone.

"We called this the zona inaudita , which is Latin for 'previously unheard-of zone,' because no one has ever observed this type of cell in another animal," said Natalie Niepoth, PhD, a co-first author on the study who is now a senior scientist at Regeneron.

In zona inaudita cells, the researchers found that 194 genes, including Akr1c18 , were far more active compared with the same genes in other adrenal cells. Their analyses also identified key genes underlying the development and function of the zona inaudita in the oldfield mice.

This completely unheard-of structure apparently evolved rapidly. Genetic mutations accumulate in genomes at roughly predictable rates over time. By measuring the number of mutations distinguishing these species, the scientists estimated this novel cell type evolved within the past 20,000 years, "which is just an eyeblink when it comes to evolution," Dr. Bendesky said.

Much remains uncertain about what drives the evolution of monogamous behavior. One argument suggests that monogamy can increase the chances that parents will cooperate to care for their offspring, since fathers are more confident the young are theirs. This kind of teamwork can improve the chances that the progeny will survive, especially when resources are limited, Dr. Bendesky said. The newly found adrenal cells promote parenting behavior typical of monogamy, the researchers noted.

The new findings could provide insights when it comes to parenting behavior and challenges in humans, Dr. Niepoth suggested. For example, in mice, 20⍺-OHP is often converted into a compound very similar to the molecule allopregnanolone, which naturally occurs in humans and has been approved by the FDA as a drug to help treat the postpartum depression that people often experience after childbirth, Dr. Bendesky said.

"I hope that our study motivates further investigation into the link between 20⍺-OHP and parenting in humans," saidJennifer R. Merritt, PhD, a co-first author on the study and postdoctoral researcher in the Bendesky lab.. "We have so much to learn about the role this hormone plays in human parental behavior."

  • Huntington's Disease
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  • Child Development
  • New Species
  • Genetically Modified
  • Thyroid hormone
  • Endocrinology
  • House mouse
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  • Cell (biology)

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Materials provided by Columbia University . Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

  • Natalie Niepoth, Jennifer R. Merritt, Michelle Uminski, Emily Lei, Victoria S. Esquibies, Ina B. Bando, Kimberly Hernandez, Christoph Gebhardt, Sarah A. Wacker, Stefano Lutzu, Asmita Poudel, Kiran K. Soma, Stephanie Rudolph, Andres Bendesky. Evolution of a novel adrenal cell type that promotes parental care . Nature , 2024; DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07423-y

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