Sociology vs. Psychology | Differences & Similarities

Many degree programs focus on the study of human behavior, but most of them describe the subject from different angles. Two of the most common degrees that study the human mind and actions are psychology and sociology.

Although both degrees and career paths have similar focuses, students must decide which major is better suited for them. Several key differences will make one better than the other, depending on goals and interests.

What Is Sociology?

Sociology is the study of how humans interact and react within social institutions. Although there is a focus on how humans act, sociology majors study these actions as they relate to social groups.

Studying sociology includes intense research on demographics, such as ethnicity, age, gender, and economic status.

Sociology graduates can analyze the mental processes of groups of people and look for patterns and other behaviors. This research is used to help look at social structures critically and provide a deeper understanding of how people are affected by the societies they live in.

Sociology Careers

Sociology degree holders qualify for many jobs in diverse industries, from business to social work. Some of the most common career opportunities for sociologists include:

• market researcher
• human resources manager
• career counselor
• social worker
• social behavior analyst
• public policy advisor

What Is Psychology?

Psychology, like sociology, studies the human mind. Unlike sociology, psychology takes a very individualized approach.

Psychology studies include multiple areas of study around mental health and mental illnesses. However, the field of psychology acknowledges the impact of societal factors on the behavior of individual people.

This field is often directly related to neuroscience and involves a deep study of the brain that won't always be covered in sociology or other social sciences.

Psychology majors often choose specializations that allow them to pursue more specific careers. Some of the most common specializations include:

• social psychology
• clinical psychology
• forensic psychology

Psychology Careers

Most psychology degree programs will involve studies in various specializations, but choosing a specialization is a good way to prepare yourself for a certain career in psychology. Some of the most common career paths for psychology graduates include:

• behavioral therapist
• clinical psychologist
• forensic psychologist
• psychology professor
• sports psychologist

Key Differences Between Sociology and Psychology

Psychology and sociology both fall under the umbrella of social sciences, but the two degrees and careers are vastly different in terms of focus and application. Students in both programs will study similar topics, but each program includes unique material.

Unique Focus Areas

Sociology and psychology study human behavior, but they address behavior from opposite angles. Sociology coursework addresses behavior as it relates to society. Sociologists analyze society and other external factors and their impact on behavior.

Conversely, psychology focuses on how an individual's mind affects their behavior and how they react to social change. Psychology also has a more specific focus on mental health and how that can affect a person's actions.

Research Methods

Research is crucial for any science, even the social sciences like sociology and psychology.

Psychology research includes studying the brain through interviewing and other observation-based methods to learn more about an individual. Even when psychologists review past data from other people, their research is typically done on individuals rather than groups to help other patients.

Sociology research focuses on social theories like demographics and culture. It is done at higher levels to get a better picture of the various groups within a society, how they interact, and more.

Sociologists use methods like observation and surveys, as well as a combination of qualitative and quantitative research, to understand more about societies and cultures.

Field Application

The last major difference between the two fields is how they apply their knowledge. Sociologists work with communities. Even when they help individuals, they work with them to understand their role in larger group dynamics. Sociologists work in social services settings, but usually with more of a community focus.

Psychologists work with many patients, but they almost always work to provide solutions on an individual basis. The application of psychology work also considers societal factors; however, this application is ultimately done in a personalized manner.

Similarities Between Sociology and Psychology

Despite their large differences, sociology and psychology have several similarities, starting with the skills used. Even if the two degrees use these skills differently, they still apply common skills like critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and research.

Beyond the skill sets used by members of both professions, there are many other similarities.

Analysis of Human Behavior

Both sociology and psychology share a common goal of analyzing human behavior, even if the methods used are different.

Human behavior is affected both internally and externally, and that's why sociology and psychology are so crucial. Looking at human behavior from both sides allows sociologists and psychologists to review the other field's work and get a better understanding of this specialized research.

Both Are Social Sciences

Both psychology and sociology are social sciences. This means they study how humans act and interact. Social sciences also include fields like political science, history, and economics.

These fields all study human behavior and the mind in different social settings. Despite the varying focuses, there are overlaps in studying, research, and applications.

Comprehensive Understanding of Societal Issues

Psychology focuses on individuals and how they think, but that doesn't mean it ignores social problems and their impacts. Psychology and sociology both perform intense research on society and how stresses and pressure from social constructs affect the people within the society.

Despite studying societal issues from different perspectives, both are required to have a full understanding of society as a whole.

Psychology vs. Sociology: Which Career Path Is Better?

Both career paths are valid, and there isn't necessarily one universally better career path, but one will be better than the other for some students.

Psychology will probably be a better field for you if you prefer working with people on an individual level to help them solve problems in their lives and address mental illnesses. The work of psychologists is in demand, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% growth in the field by 2032.

Sociology is a great career choice for people who want to analyze society at a higher level and work with groups to understand how humans behave across demographic lines. Sociologists are also projected to see positive growth by 2032, about 5%.

Both will be good career choices if you want to analyze human behavior. The deciding factor that might make one better than the other is your goals on how you want to analyze people.