International Psychology is a psychology subspecialty that is sometimes referred to as cross-cultural psychology. It focuses on the work of psychologists who engage in multicultural research or practice, are applying psychological principles to the development of public policy, or who focus on individual or collective responses to particular global events.
With international psychologists, the main area of concern is less on how the individual processes the events in their lives, and more about what commonalities individuals within a certain culture share. Pursuing an international psychology degree can be an exciting opportunity to learn more about worlds beyond your own that are still very much a part of the ongoing human experience.
What Does an International Psychologist Do?
Part of the job of international psychologists is to study trends within different countries. They need to get a sense of what the predominant factors are pertaining to beliefs, science and social order. Every country is different with poorer countries embracing less of a psychological influence than those with stronger economies and educational backgrounds.
As an international psychologist, it is important not to understand the individual but the group as a whole. One must study how a country will react to certain events that happen in the world and within their own cultures. The divide between the secular western democracies and highly-religious developing countries are an example of international psychology at work.
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Careers in International Psychology
Careers in international psychology vary widely in what they pay. Developing countries may have a number of opportunities for the enterprising psychologist, but at a lower salary than industrialized countries. You may wish to sign up with an overseas study program at your college or university. Doing so will not only give you a taste for this particular field of psychology, but it may also give you the contacts.
Obtaining an International Psychology Degree
An overseas study program is a great way to get your start in this field, but if you want to make a career of it, then you really need a doctorate degree. Coursework tends towards behavioral neuroscience and cultural studies. Once you have your doctorate degree, the possibilities are wide open. To aid in your search, focus on countries where you would like to work and see what standards they have in place for practicing psychology.