Sunday, October 28, 2007

Why Research Communication & Psychology?

Communication and Psychology are two disciplines that represent a great example of interdisciplinary research. Since I am an undergraduate studying Communication, I am frequently exposed to psychological factors that contribute to many theories within Communication. On the other hand, however, Communication studies also offer social factors that determine one's attitude, behavior, and interactions with others. My interest stems from the constant debate between the two disciplines as to what determines social interactions between human beings. Do our attitudes and behaviors stem from our psyche and individual personality traits? Or do we act in certain ways because of social factors?
I believe that these attitudinal and behavior questions are a great way to start researching within Communication and psychology. Additionally, I hope to come across other controversial issues that have been debated throughout the two disciplines (especially since Communication is a relatively new discipline).