“One of the most common misconceptions about psychologists is that we can read minds,” shared Clare Yeo, president of the Singapore Psychological Society (SPS).
“If I notice someone who seems distressed, I will observe, approach and then ask in an empathetic way without probing. It makes a person more willing to share. It’s through their sharing that I can ‘read their minds’ and help them from there,” she explained.
Putting it simply, Clare shared that psychology is basically the study of human behaviour, and it includes the way they think, act, react and interact.
A complementary set of skills psychologists need to possess is ‘softer’ in nature. These skills include actively listening and responding empathetically.
“Such soft skills are necessary in any helping profession, such as teaching as well as the service industry. The difference for psychologists is that we study a lot more about human behaviour, both normal and abnormal behaviour. From our research and practice experiences, we use psychological tools to assess the needs of our clients and then formulate an appropriate and individualised management plan,” she said.
Psychologists also need to continue their professional learning through avenues such as training courses, reading of research papers and peer supervision – all of which a professional body like SPS supports members with.
Career Opportunities
Discussing the possible career opportunities for professionals with an education in psychology, Clare highlighted many different options in human resources, consumer behaviour and marketing. These are areas where the knowledge of human behaviour and people skills can support their main job functions.
“There are those who go on to more specialised training. You may have educational psychologists, organisational psychologists and people who practice in the mental health field. They will then use their specialised skills to work with individuals and groups of people,” she added.
Clare also shared that psychologists are needed in the social services sector where the cases encompass both social and psychological issues.
There can even be opportunities for psychologists to support government agencies as they build up services and infrastructure to tackle real life issues such as terrorism and crisis management.
“In Singapore, we have a lot of such programmes already. Rather than reinvent the wheel, we are looking at how we can upskill everyone, give them enough knowledge and help them understand and know how to react when something does happen,” said Clare.
Working With The Labour Movement
Having joined NTUC’s U Associate network recently, SPS is already working with them to support its programmes.
“We are coming in to bridge a gap in the skills required for volunteers in NTUC’s career support
programme where volunteers offer emotional support in addition to industry knowledge. We are working closely with the U Associate team to better understand the needs and how the knowledge and skills we have will meet the needs of the volunteers.
“One level is to equip them with necessary skills such as active listening, being empathetic and how to communicate sensitively,” said Clare.
