Domains of Research
The nature of pedagogy at the department follows a critical and experiential mode with special emphasis on theory-practice confluence. Our endeavor is to create a strong research-based theoretical foundation with the development of skills that enable students to take a creative, empirical, and ethical approach to combine conceptual repertoire and research practices in both quantitative and qualitative traditions.
Some of the thrust areas of research include- Applied Human Development, Psychology of Vulnerability, Applied Social Psychology, Cultural Psychology, Organization Behavior, Psychological Assessment Cognitive Neuro- Science.
Applied Developmental Psychology
The "Applied Developmental Psychology" specialisation is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the field of developmental science while emphasising its practical applications. The objectives of this specialisation encompass a broad range of topics and skills, ensuring that students develop a strong research-oriented theoretical foundation and are equipped to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
Through this specialisation, students will explore the cultural and contextual nuances of development, and engage with special populations to understand the socio-political, legal, and neurobiological aspects of development. The specialisation encourages students to critically assess the implications of developmental research, equipping them with the knowledge to design and implement culturally sensitive clinical assessments and interventions, thereby fostering social inclusion. Furthermore, the course delves into issues related to parenting, negotiating childhood, early socialisation, family dynamics, adolescence, peer relationships, and youth as active citizens, thereby culminating in a comprehensive understanding of development as a contextual whole.
Upon completing the course, students will have gained a broad range of knowledge and skills that align with the course objectives. They will appreciate different perspectives in developmental psychology and understand the cultural underpinnings of human development, enabling them to employ various research methods and intervention strategies. Ethical considerations at the intersection of theory, research, practice, and policy will be emphasised, ensuring students are well-rounded in their approach. They will also be well-equipped to work with marginalised and vulnerable populations and understand the unique needs and rights of children. The course will also prepare students to address developmental issues during adolescence and utilise psychological skills for career planning and positive youth development. Lastly, students will be able to envision the patterns of development in late adulthood, thereby appreciating various facets of successful ageing.
Indian Psychology
अन्धन्तमः प्रविशन्ति येऽविद्यामुपासते ।
ततो भूय इव ते तमोय उ विद्यायां रताः ॥ ९
- Isha Upanishad (Verse 9)
They who worship Avidya alone fall into blind darkness; and they who worship Vidya alone fall into even greater darkness.
Indian Psychology is a burgeoning field that offers a unique lens to understand the human psyche. Deep-seated in the timeless wisdom of the Indian subcontinent, it endeavours to harmonise age-old teachings with contemporary scientific insights. On this journey of introspection and growth, this specialisation seeks to bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and modern scientific understanding. As we traverse the path of self-awareness and self-development, the profound insights from Indian Psychology provide the scaffolding for a holistic approach to understanding human nature.
This course aims to foster an understanding of the historical and philosophical bases of mainstream science to critically analyse its strengths and limitations, particularly in a comprehensive understanding of human nature. With an emphasis on Integral Yoga, the course introduces its theories and practical applications, aiding students in self-development, education, therapy, and community development. Furthermore, the module sheds light on the Indian perspective of emotional transformation, underscoring its significance in fostering excellence and creativity within educational and organisational frameworks. The course also offers an immersive introduction to the philosophies and psychological perspectives within Buddhism, emphasising mindfulness practices and their integrative application in addressing various behavioural disorders.
Upon completion, students will be equipped to discern the aspects of science that complement and those that conflict with a broader, integrative understanding of the self. Graduates will appreciate the nuanced differences and intersections between Western scientific thinking and the wisdom offered by Indian traditions. The integration of Buddhist Psychology and mindfulness will accentuate the unique offerings of the Indian tradition to the comprehension of human nature, thereby equipping them with tools to foster holistic personal and community growth.
Clinical/Neuropsychology
Clinical/Neuropsychology aims to cultivate sensitivity towards identifying and managing aspects of human behaviour that are or have the potential to be sources of distress in a person’s life. The modules broadly follow a biopsychosocial model of health, striving to draw a through-line across the various factors that shape behaviour. In addition to providing an extensive understanding of the clinical picture of major psychological disorders according to contemporary diagnostic manuals, the course focuses on the more nuanced aspects of psychopathology. Bridging the gap between the overarching societal influences and unique subjective experiences, the specialisation draws insights from the fields of social psychiatry and phenomenology to frame pathology as a multifaceted manifestation.
The specialisation helps the students develop a solid foundation in becoming effective clinical practitioners and researchers by familiarising them with classical as well as state-of-the-art assessment and testing tools and their application in a multitude of settings. It educates the pupil on the rich history of psychotherapy and the ways in which the baton of treating mental distress has passed from one school of thought to another over centuries. Moreover, clinical/neuropsychology also offers an understanding of modern psychotherapeutic frameworks such as cognitive behavioural therapies, stress inoculation training and visualisation training.
Upon completion, the students will be equipped with a distinguishing clinical lens and be apt to place mental illness in its proper sociocultural context in order to formulate an efficacious mode of treatment. They will also be intimately aware of the role of communities in influencing mass mental health and the ways in which knowledge about them can be used for intervention planning. Placing mental health in an integrative framework where its importance is considered equivalent to physical health, and both work synchronously to foster a sense of well-being, the specialisation aims to empower students to contribute to a holistic and equitable approach to well-being, addressing the interplay of mental and physical health within the broader context of individuals, communities, and society as a whole.
Organisational Behaviour
In Organisational behaviour psychology one learns how to explore the intricate web of influences on employee behaviour in the workplace. It teaches to analyse micro-level dynamics that determine how employees interact, shaping teamwork and communication. This field also specialises in change management, seeking strategies to ease transitions, reduce employee anxiety, and prevent turnover.
Psychologists in this domain employ tools like the FIRO-B test to understand behaviour and interaction patterns, aiding in conflict resolution and team dynamics.On top of that, they shape policies to enhance employee well-being, covering areas such as work-life balance, mental health support, and physical well-being programs, fostering a content and productive workforce.
Organisational behaviour psychology's expertise extends to HR practices, assisting in recruitment and selection procedures that prioritise not only skills but also alignment with the organisation's culture and values. This "organisation good fit" approach contributes to a cohesive and successful workforce. Ultimately, it's about understanding and improving organisational dynamics, benefiting both employees and the organisation itself.