M.A./ M.Sc. in Applied Psychology

The Relevance of Child Psychology in the Modern Era

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INTRODUCTION  

Child psychology is an important research area that studies children’s thinking, emotions, and development, forming the basis for their future welfare. As concerns about mental well-being increase, knowing about early emotional and intellectual development is more important than ever. It is estimated that 1 in every 7 children in the world have mental health issues, yet most remain undiagnosed (UNICEF). Child Psychology as a specialisation under an M.A./ MSc in Applied Psychology provides students with the expertise to nurture young minds, resolve behavioural problems, and help build a healthier society. This programme from the Jindal Institute of Behavioural Sciences (JIBS) provides varied career prospects, making it a meaningful and fulfilling career option for aspiring psychologists and teachers.

TABLE OF CONTENT  

  • Unspoken Struggles: Decoding The Hidden World of a Child’s Mind
  • Global Perspectives on Children’s Mental Health
  • Child Psychology- A Growing Field of Interest 
  • Child Psychology: An Insightful Journey
  • How Can A Professional Psychologist Help in Nurturing Young Minds 
  • Employment Prospects for Child Psychologists
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • Popular Career Choices
  • Final Thoughts  
  • FAQs

Unspoken Struggles: Decoding The Hidden World of a Child’s Mind

Ever wonder why children act and think in unusual ways? Alternatively, how do early events help to define a child’s future? These are the fundamental questions of Child Psychology, which is devoted to comprehending emotional, social, and cognitive growth in children. An MA/ MSc in Applied Psychology focusing on Child Psychology offers a rare opportunity to make a difference, given the increasing awareness of the significance of early mental health.  

Global Perspectives on Children’s Mental Health

UNICEF’s findings reveal that mental disorders affect approximately 1 in 7 children and adolescents worldwide, yet many remain untreated. Alarmingly, a significant number of these issues emerge before the age of 14. Nearly 1 billion children (six in ten aged 2–14) regularly experience physical punishment leading to mental stress, while almost seven in ten suffer from psychological aggression.
Additionally, the findings revealed that over 25% of girls and more than 10% of boys reported experiencing childhood sexual violence leading to psychological trauma. Data from both high-income (HICs) and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) confirm that childhood sexual abuse significantly increases the risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal behaviour. 

In response, the UNICEF and WHO Joint Programme aims to improve children’s mental health and well-being by 2030 through evidence-based, multisectoral strategies. It seeks to enhance support and services for better investment in mental health.

Child Psychology- A Growing Field of Interest 

A child’s brain is like a blooming garden; it grows with the correct care but could suffer without it. Studies from reliable sources, including the American Psychological Association (APA), reveal that early interventions greatly enhance outcomes for kids dealing with emotional or behavioural difficulties. For instance, prompt psychological help can improve children’s academic performance and social skills, thus enhancing academic success. It lowers the risk of long-term mental health problems, according to a study written for the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry.   

Child Psychology: An Insightful Journey

Child psychology is dynamic; it changes constantly to meet contemporary problems and risky technological developments. Think of these creative solutions that can be executed through modern technology:

  • Virtual Reality (VR) Therapy: Immersive VR settings can manage children’s anxiety and fear, making therapy both engaging and effective.
  • Artificial Intelligence: AI methods help identify developmental problems more precisely.
  • Remote Consultations: Particularly in underprivileged areas, remote consultations, through teletherapy, provide access to mental health care.

Integrating technology with traditional therapy methods allows psychologists to reach more children and precisely target the interventions to their needs. This combination of conventional knowledge and contemporary creativity highlights the dynamic nature of the field. 

How Can A Professional Psychologist Help in Nurturing Young Minds 

MSc in Applied Psychology

Unlike the last decade, parents are now more conscious of their child’s emotional and mental well-being. New-age parents, especially in urban areas, are turning to professionals for help. We can blame it on the stress of the fast-paced life or the rise of internet penetration that leads to cyberbullying, inappropriate content and reduced attention span. Children need more counselling and support than ever. A psychologist can help the child in the following ways:

  • Support Emotional Well-being: Provide early help to youngsters having behavioural problems, anxiety, or depression.
  • Guide Teachers and Parents: Help curate nurturing surroundings that support good growth in youngsters.
  • Create Custom Treatments: Kids with neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and ADHD need special treatment plans. A professional can help those with learning differences as well.

Employment Prospects for Child Psychologists  

Learning child psychology is about permanently improving young lives, not just about a profession. Helping a child overcome challenges and flourish brings immense personal satisfaction. Starting this journey will allow prospective students to join a network of experts committed to raising the next generation, ensuring every child has the opportunity to achieve their goals in life. 

Popular Career Choices

MSc in Applied Psychology

  • Child Psychologist: A child psychologist works directly with children to diagnose and treat mental health problems.
  • School Counselor: A school counsellor supports children as they encounter social and academic challenges.
  • Special Education Teachers: A special education teacher creates and applies learning plans for children with impairments.
  • Developmental Psychologist: A developmental psychologist researches patterns of growth and change to better understand child development.
  • Therapist: A therapist provides children dealing with trauma, anxiety, or behavioural problems with specifically designed interventions.

There is an increasing demand for these positions in India and abroad. UNICEF establishes that early mental health support not only enhances personal outcomes but also helps to build a brighter future.

Final Thoughts 

A postgraduate degree in M.A./ MSc in Applied Psychology with Child Psychology specialisation from the Jindal Institute of Behavioural Sciences (JIBS) at OP Jindal University is a dedication to shaping a better future. It is not only an intellectual accomplishment, but also a proof of your perseverance. Merit-cum-Means Scholarships and education loan options are available, making quality education at JIBS accessible to deserving students, who want to be changemakers in society. Placement success stands at 81.5%, with top recruiters like Goldman Sachs, Deloitte, Policy Bazaar, and Graviton Research Capital, offering salaries up to ₹10.2 LPA. This postgraduate programme promises both professional development and great personal fulfilment, grounded in solid academic study, expert knowledge, and pragmatic experience. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Who is eligible to apply for M.A./M.Sc. in Applied Psychology?

Applicants with a minimum of 50% in any undergraduate degree can apply. You must take the Jindal-PMAT or other accepted exams (GRE, GMAT, CAT).

  1. How long does the programme last?

M.A./ MSc in Applied Psychology is a full-time, two-year journey of learning, growth, and hands-on experience.

  1. What makes JIBS the best institution to pursue the programme?

JIBS provides an interdisciplinary programme, renowned faculty, and advanced laboratories such as the Brain Behaviour and Forensic Science Laboratories. JIBS is also associated with the Academic Council on the United Nations System (ACUNS). The programme integrates theory, practical training, research, and internships. We provide you with hands-on experience in child development and mental health.

  1. What are the career options available after this?

You can work in schools, mental health organizations, NGOs, research setups, or even the corporate world. 

  1. What kind of practical experience will I receive at JIBS?

From laboratory work to research projects and school, hospital, or NGO internships, you will gain practical experience that can assist you in tackling real-world problems.

  1. Can I pursue higher studies after this?

Yes! This programme paves the way for Ph.D. in India and international destinations, allowing you to further specialise in your chosen field.

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