Our definition of psychology is no longer appropriate. For decades, psychology has been defined as "the scientific study of behavior and mental processes." While various iterations exist, this captures it. What I find amusing is that, for a very long time, the first few chapters of introductory psychology textbooks focus on the brain, sensation, and perception. These are all biological/physiological in nature. Stress? Big physiological component. Motivation? Big physiological component. Consciousness? Big physiological component. Why is human physiology not considered part of what we study?

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Later in introductory texts, the focus turns to social, cultural, and developmental factors. Certainly now, in a time of DEI, we are very aware of the importance of context. Yet, our definition fails to include these elements explicitly. 

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While hardcore proponents of the current definition will rail against my suggestion, it is time to give psychology another serious shove into the modern era. What is psychology?

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Psychology is the scientific study of human physiology, behavior, and mental processes across developmental, social, and cultural contexts.

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