• How it works
  • Top Writers
  • TOP Writers

Discovering Psychology Research Proposal Topics

When you need to prepare a great psychology paper, choosing a good topic is crucial. It can be challenging to find a decent topic. Still, only with a good theme for analysis, you can prepare a flawless and original psychology research proposal eventually. Many academic assignments are based on interesting subjects. Surely, you need to select the one that is related to psychology. When dealing with psychology papers, choose a solid and simple topic. There is no need to select a wide subject since it simply decreases the time needed for paper performing.

There are a few writing steps you need to follow to prepare a perfect article. This piece is a psychology-based research paper. Therefore, it requires a profound analysis of a topic. Further, you need to follow writing guidelines and tips to write down the main ideas and results of your research. You need to be very attentive to the details. Sometimes, it can be quite problematic coming up with a good topic. Still, choosing a proper subject is crucial.

The right topic and correct structure assure a perfect final research paper. You need to conduct a prior-research in order to analyze what branch of psychology your topic should be related to. Moreover, checking sources in advance is a great idea. It allows assuring a proper discovery of the topic. Be precise with your paper’s purposes, methods you are about to use, and research tools. Always choose a concise and understandable subject to analyze.

Choosing Psychology Research Proposal Topics

When writing a psychology research proposal, be aware of the exact branch of psychology. Your paper must be focused on a particular subject. Thus, there is no way to write about a single phenomenon analyzing a few spheres of psychological science. Choose a concise topic and a definite branch of psychology. Better select a narrow branch for your research. It will allow you coming up with solid arguments, a strong thesis statement, and relevant evidence faster. Once you have a defined subject to research, it is easier to check the available sources and materials. It is also easier to provide a thesis statement.

Selecting a specific branch of psychology, you ease your topic selection as well. You can prepare numerous great papers on social psychology, psychological disorders, and therapy, human cognition, human development, or a specific psychology career. You can also write about a famous historical figure. You choose for yourself what theme to select based on your personal interests and preferences. It can take time to find enough inspiration to come up with a great topic. Still, you need to pay your efforts to select the best possible subject. A solid topic always determines the paper’s final success.

Social Psychology Topics

  • The top reasons for an increased discrimination rate in the world
  • The social control and modern cults
  • The influence of propaganda on people
  • The difference between attraction and love
  • The main aspects of nonverbal communication
  • The main ways of becoming a leader
  • The key points of prosocial behavior
  • Personal attitudes and behavior
  • The prohibited ways of persuasion
  • The social cognition

Psychological Disorders and Therapy

  • The main reasons for eating disorders
  • The top way of depression treatment
  • The most widespread phobias
  • The modern methods of schizophrenia treatment
  • Cognitive behavior’s therapy
  • The benefits of psychoanalytic therapy
  • Antisocial personality disorder
  • Borderline personality disorder
  • The benefits of group therapy
  • Seasonal disorders

Human Cognition and Development

  • The ways of preventing bullying in schools
  • Language acquisition: advanced learning
  • Learning disabilities and modern treatment
  • The definition of gender roles in psychology
  • Media violence and children
  • The different parenting styles
  • Features of the aging process
  • The problem-solving abilities
  • False memories and perception
  • Speech disorders and therapy

Interesting Psychology Research Proposal Topics

  • The sleep deprivation and stress
  • Physical illness caused by stress
  • The main stages of human development
  • The use of hypnosis in psychology
  • The outcomes of introvert behavior
  • The influence of social isolation on health
  • Junk food and mental health
  • The impact of violent music on children
  • The effects of bipolar disorder on life
  • The recent innovations in genetics
  • Psychological reasons for low self-esteem
  • The phenomenon of hate crimes
  • The reasons for various phobias
  • Motivation theories: do they work
  • Psychology of sex workers
  • The reasons for teenage suicide
  • Gay adoption: ethical concepts
  • Psychological profiles of serial killers
  • The prevention of stress in people
  • The quality of long-term memory

Developing Psychology Research Proposal Topics

When you need to prepare an original psychology research proposal topic, you need to follow some useful guidelines. They can help you to find the best theme. There are the key steps you need to follow in order to select a winning subject:

  • Learn your audience. You need to be well-aware of people that can use the results of your research. Once you know your target audience, you can choose a proper topic. Moreover, select the topic that can be useful for your readers and an entire psychology sphere. Be attentive and conduct profound research work.
  • Find your purpose. In order to select the best topic, you must be inspired by a certain idea. Therefore, you need to choose an important issue for research. When you can help people with the results of your research, it gets even easier to continue your analyses. Finally, your paper’s purpose determines your research methods. The purpose of your paper is important. You should consider all your important reasons before starting writing your article.
  • Conduct research. When you have a chosen topic to reveal, be very careful with the preparation stage. You must conduct profound prior-research on the topic. Be careful when checking the relevant sources. When preparing an article, you need to be well-aware of the topic and its key ideas. It is important since you must provide solid arguments, a thesis statement, and supporting evidence. Remain genuine and knowledgeable.

Psychology Research Proposal: Writing Tips

The psychology proposal usually contains a few parts. You need first to describe the purpose of your paper. Once selecting a topic, you have already figured out the purpose of your psychology proposal paper. You also need to write down the methods used for your paper’s preparation. It will give your readers important information on your topic.

Make sure to conduct a prior-research in advance. Check the set of relevant sources and materials to have enough information to prepare a strong thesis statement. Make sure to come up with solid arguments and evidence. You can look for a discussion on the topic. You need to provide a set of important questions in your paper and answer them. Once dealing with a proposal, it is important to follow the tutor’s requirements and guidelines. A psychology research proposal requires a short explanation of ideas. Be aware of your paper’s goals to complete an excellent article. If you deal with a specific language in your research paper, make sure to explain complex concepts. The formatting style is usually assigned by a tutor. Thus, every writer must follow a certain formatting style and assure the paper’s proper structure. It is also important to prepare original and flawless content. Your paper must be useful for other researchers.

Preparing a Good Psychology Research Proposal

The useful writing steps can help to complete a good paper. You need to follow some guides to succeed in your academic writing. Every research paper requires a profound analysis of a topic. When writing a psychology-based research paper, make sure to define a certain branch of psychology. It is even better if you narrow it for your research. Further, you need to follow writing guidelines and writing tips to write down the main ideas and research results’ explanation. Be very attentive to the slightest details. From time to time, it can be quite problematic coming up with a certain topic that can be analyzed easily. Still, choosing a proper subject is essential.

The right topic and correct structure of your article assure a perfect final content. Be ready to conduct a short prior-research in order to analyze what branch of psychology your topic should be related to and narrow it eventually. Moreover, check the sources on the topic in advance. It will allow assuring a proper discovery of the subject. Be accurate with your paper’s resolutions. Choose a concise and logical subject to study.

When writing a psychology research proposal, focus on a particular theme. Consequently, be ready to describe a certain phenomenon once analyzing numerous relevant sources. Choose a concise topic that inspires you. It will allow you coming up with solid arguments, a strong thesis statement, and relevant up-to-date evidence. Once you have a defined subject to research, be ready to use your best writing and analytical talents. Make your work really valuable for your target audience.

topics for a research proposal in psychology

topics for a research proposal in psychology

  • How we work

topics for a research proposal in psychology

55 Actual Psychology Research Topics to Open New Research Horizons

No idea about psychology research paper topics? We're here to support you comprehensively!

topics for a research proposal in psychology

Why Is Picking Great Psychology Research Topics Important?

Psychology is an extensive and complex discipline that explores the complexities of the human brain and behaviors. At the same time, it’s a fascinating subject area where scholars can derive psychology research topics from various subfields, such as cognition, emotion, motivation, personality, social interaction, health, abnormality, and more. There are many possible proposal topics to choose from, and your choice could make all the difference in your paper.

Three reasons recognize the importance of right topic selection:

Selecting a fantastic proposal topic in psychology makes a lot of difference in your paper, whether you are a senior student or a seasoned researcher. So, why should you prioritize picking a topic?

An excellent subject of investigation can contribute to the field. While there are many possible psychology topics to research, picking the right one contributes to the existing knowledge in the discipline. So, your work will help advance the field. Besides, a properly executed study can influence your academic growth and open up more opportunities in academics, industry, and other sectors.

A good topic can also contribute to society. Many psychology proposal topics have real-world implications. They can lead to improvements in education, health, therapy, policy, and other aspects of human well-being. So, consider the contributions of your work when assessing our research ideas psychology.

Finally, picking an apt subject of investigation gives you a sense of achievement since you’ll have made a meaningful contribution to the psychology discipline. It will also help guarantee success in your research proposal.

To aid your search, we have compiled research proposal topics psychology you can explore to unravel the mysteries of the human brain.

topics of psychology research

Cognitive Psychology Topics to Research

The cognitive division of psychology entails understanding mental procedures such as attention, making decisions, language perception, memory, and solving problems. Check out the following intriguing cognitive research topics for psychology, helping to make immaculate proposal papers.

  • Role of Attention in Multitasking
  • Ways in Which Working Memory Capacity Influences Academic Success
  • Ways in Which Cognitive Biases Influence Decision-Making Processes
  • Factors Promoting the Development of Cognitive Abilities in Infants
  • Positive Impact of Technology Use on Cognitive Functions
  • Neuroplasticity and Its Role in Cognitive Rehabilitation for Persons With Brain Injuries
  • Impact of Mental Imagery Techniques on Cognitive Tasks
  • Effect of Metacognition on Learning and Problem-Solving Strategies
  • Ways in Which Cognitive Biases Shape the Way Individuals Perceive and Interpret Information on the Internet
  • The Variation of Cognitive Processes Across Different Cultures and Societies
  • Influence of Emotions on Cognitive Processes

Behavior Psychology Research Paper Topics

Behavioral psychology entails investigating observable behaviors and the principles that govern them. Most behavior psychology research paper topics investigate how behaviors get acquired, modified, and maintained. Check these interesting proposal subjects of investigation to get inspired for writing a proposal paper:

  • Use of Classical Conditioning Principles in Advertising to Associate Products With Positive Emotional Responses
  • Effectiveness of Operant Conditioning and Parenting Strategies in Shaping Child Behavior
  • Use of Behavior Modification Techniques in Clinical Psychology to Treat Conditions
  • Use of Token Economies in Classrooms to Promote Desirable Behaviors and Academic Achievement Among Students
  • Effectiveness of Using Evidence-Based Behavioral Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Influence of Cognitive Biases on Consumer Choices
  • Role of Social Learning Theory in the Development of Criminal Behavior
  • Application of the Principles of Reinforcement to Addiction and Maintenance of Substance Use
  • Effectiveness of Behavior-Based Weight Management Programs
  • Behavioral Aspects of Procrastination and How to Manage Them
  • The Use of Behavioral Techniques to Manage and Treat Anxiety Disorders

Great Psychology Research Proposal Topics in Human Development

Human development is a rich area in psychology that involves assessing the different aspects of growth and change across the human lifespan. Check out these captivating human development proposal topics for psychology research papers.

  • Ways in Which Parental Communication Styles and Interactions Impact Language Acquisition and Development
  • Influence of Social Networks and Online Interactions on the Process of Identity Development During Adolescence
  • Long-Term Effects of Attachment Styles Established in Early Childhood on Adult Romantic and Interpersonal Relationships
  • Psychological and Emotional Consequences of Divorce on Children’s Development
  • Cognitive Changes That Occur in Older Adults and Potential Interventions to Maintain Cognitive Function and Quality of Life
  • Influence of Societal Gender Roles and Stereotypes on Children’s Behavior, Aspirations, and Self-Concept
  • Psychological Consequences of Bullying During Adolescence
  • Influence of Sibling Relationships on Social and Emotional Development
  • Relationship Between Different Parenting Styles and Children’s Academic Performance and Motivation
  • Impact of Technology on Early Childhood Development
  • The Effect of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Child Development

Controversial Research Topics for Psychology

Choosing a controversial topic for a psychology research paper encourages more engaging and thought-provoking investigations. These proposal topics spark discussions and can lead to a deeper exploration of some complex issues in psychology. Let’s explore several examples of such proposal themes.

  • Ethical Concerns Surrounding of the Psychiatric Medications
  • Psychological and Ethical Implications of Conversion Therapy
  • Role of Therapy in the Retrieval of Repressed Memories
  • Possible Psychological Effects of Solitary Confinement on Prisoners
  • Role of Media in Shaping Unrealistic Body Standards
  • Influence of Social Networks on Body Image, Self-Esteem, and Mental Health in Young Adults
  • Influence of Video Game Violence on the Desensitization to Violence in Real Life
  • Ethical Considerations and Controversies Surrounding the Use of Animals in Psychological Research
  • Ethical and Psychological Implications of Torture and Controversial Interrogation Methods
  • Psychological Effects of Encounters With Police by Individuals and Communities
  • The Use of Psychedelics for Therapeutic Purposes and Their Potential Benefits and Risks

Cultural Psychology Research Topics for College Students

Cultural psychology explores how culture influences human behavior, cognition, and emotions. Here are some great cultural research topics in psychology that will make your proposal stand out.

  • Role of Cultural Norms, Values and Traditions in Shaping the Way Individuals Express and Perceive Emotions
  • Cross-Cultural Parenting Styles and Their Impact on Child Development in Different Cultural Contexts
  • Influence of Cultural Backgrounds on Perceptual Processes
  • Impact of Culture on Reinforcing Gender Roles and Stereotypes
  • Cultural Variations in Definitions of Happiness, Life Satisfaction, and Well-Being
  • Cultural Differences in Leadership Styles, Preferences, and Their Effectiveness in Organizations
  • Ways in Which Cultural Factors Shape Decision-Making Processes
  • Role of Culture in Developing and Fostering Stereotypes, Prejudice, and Intergroup Relations
  • Significance of Cultural Rituals, Ceremonies, and Traditions in Promoting Social Cohesion, Identity, and Psychological Well-Being
  • Ways in Which Cultural Beliefs and Attitudes Influence the Stigma Surrounding Mental Wellness Issues
  • Ways in Which Cultural Influences on Body Image Impact Self-Esteem and Body Satisfaction

How to Pick the Right Psychology Research Ideas for Your Paper

Now that we’ve provided a variety of psychology research topics for college students, how can you find the right one for your paper? While all the proposal topics we’ve provided are plausible for a psychology paper, you need to take some time to identify the best fit for your investigation. Here are some steps you can follow. The steps apply to different fields, including students working on research proposal sociology .

  • Identify Your Interests

Reflect on your preferences and personal interests within the field of psychology. Then, identify the psychology research ideas that align with them to keep you motivated during research.

  • Narrow Down the Subfields

Once you have identified what interests you, narrow down the focus to a specific subfield to make the paper manageable. A broad proposal topic won’t be comprehensively covered, and your paper will lack the depth it needs to present your findings adequately.

  • Review the Literature

Before settling on psychology research proposal topics, ensure they are researchable. Look for books, articles, and academic papers related to the topic. Use them to assess the available knowledge on the topic and identify research gaps.

  • Assess Feasibility

Consider the availability of data, the research timeframe, and the research methods available to you. These factors will help you sort out the unmanageable psychology research paper ideas.

  • Make Your Final Decision

Your final decision should be based on your passion for the topic and factors such as feasibility, research potential, and significance. Don’t be tempted by the complex research proposal ideas psychology; they will make your paper more challenging.

Psychology Research Paper Sample

To get a glimpse of how to tackle psychology proposal topics, our writers have prepared a psychology research paper example. Its authors are vetted experts in psychology, and thus, the sample research paper has been crafted by knowledgeable and skilled individuals in this field. It will guide you in writing every part of your paper, from the introduction to the conclusion. It’ll show you how to develop your thesis statement and build your points around it. Moreover, the sample will enlighten you on properly referencing a psychology paper.

psychology research proposal example

Still Have Questions? Our PhD Experts Are at Your Service!

The topic lists we’ve provided should prove useful for your hunt for a research paper topic; however, we understand that they might not be enough. If you still need further assistance with topic selection, feel free to contact us. We have a variety of professionals in the field ready to answer your questions about psychology research proposal ideas and writing the paper. Send your request and get a paper helper instantly.

topics for a research proposal in psychology

Grad Coach

Research Topics & Ideas: Psychology

100+ Psychology Topic Ideas To Fast-Track Your Research

Research topics and ideas in psychology

If you’re starting out on the dissertation or thesis journey for your psychology degree, the very first challenge you’ll face is finding a solid research topic . In this post, we’ll help get the topic ideation process started by providing a meaty list of research ideas, spanning a range of psychology sub-disciplines. We’ll also look at some examples from actual theses and dissertations to give you an idea of what these look like in the real world.

NB – This is just the start…

The topic ideation and evaluation process has multiple steps (which we’ll explain a little later). Therefore, it’s important to recognise that this post is only the first step in finding a high-quality psychology-centred research topic. To develop a research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan of action to fill that gap.

If this all sounds a bit intimidating, be sure to check out our free dissertation mini-course , which covers the process of writing a dissertation or thesis from A-Z. You can also sign up for our free webinar that explores how to find a high-quality research topic. Alternatively, if you’d like hands-on help, have a look at our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Overview: Psychology-Related Topics

  • How to find a research topic (video)
  • Behavioural psychology
  • Clinical psychology
  • Cognitive psychology
  • Developmental psychology
  • Educational psychology
  • Forensic psychology
  • Social psychology
  • Sports psychology
  • Examples of actual dissertation topics
  • Free Webinar : Topic Ideation 101
  • Where to get extra help

How To Find A Research Topic

In the video below, we explain how to find suitable research ideas (in psychology or any field), and how to then refine those into well-articulated potential topics for your dissertation or thesis. We also discuss a few important evaluation criteria to help you make the right choice for your project.

Below you’ll find a list of research ideas to get your thinking started. Please note that these research topic ideas are intentionally broad and generic, so you will need to refine them a fair deal using the techniques we discussed in the video above.

We’ve grouped the topic ideas based on a few popular areas of psychology to make it a little easier for you to find something in your particular field of interest. That said, there is naturally some overlap between topics, so keep this in mind.

Research Ideas: Behavioural Psychology

  • Cultural variation in behaviour and mental health of adolescents during a disaster: a case study
  • The impact of parental drug use and risky behaviour on early child development
  • The effects of video game violence on aggressive behaviour among teenage boys in school
  • The relationship between adverse childhood experiences and adult risk-seeking behaviour
  • The impact of physical exercise on anxiety and health-harming behaviour
  • The relationship between personality traits and addiction behaviour
  • The effects of reinforcement schedules on decision-making and associative learning
  • The effects of daily mindfulness practice on stress and anxiety in middle-aged women
  • The use of behavioural interventions in the treatment of eating disorders in poorer communities
  • Understanding implicit cognitive processes involved in the over-consumption of fast food
  • The use of cognitive behavioural therapy for alcohol addiction treatment
  • The impact of extensive technology use in children on long-term attention and focus
  • The impact of social media on self-destructive behaviour and poor mental health outcomes
  • Exploring the role of sleep and sleep deprivation on healthy behaviours

Research topic idea mega list

Research Ideas: Clinical Psychology

  • The use of mindfulness-based approaches in the treatment of anxiety disorders among college students
  • The use of technology in the delivery of psychological services in war-torn countries
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behaviour therapy for borderline personality disorder
  • The use of virtual reality technology in the treatment of phobias and PTSD among war veterans
  • The role of childhood adversity on adult mental health in immigrant populations in the USA
  • The role of genetics and epigenetics in the development of bipolar disorder in Pakistani women: an integrative review
  • The effectiveness of pharmacotherapy in the treatment of social anxiety among hikikomori in Japan
  • The perception of healthcare workers and patients on the use of teletherapy for the delivery of psychological services
  • The impact of social support on mental health outcomes among single parents.
  • The effectiveness of integrative therapeutic approaches in the treatment of schizophrenia
  • The effectiveness of trauma-focused therapies on post-traumatic growth in domestic abuse survivors
  • The role and use of cognitive-behavioural therapy for depression among first-generation students
  • The effectiveness of family therapy in addressing childhood trauma and depression
  • The impact of cultural mistrust on the diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues in culturally-diverse populations
  • The effectiveness of group therapy on post-traumatic stress symptoms among survivors of sexual assault

Research Topic Kickstarter - Need Help Finding A Research Topic?

Research Ideas: Cognitive Psychology

  • The impact of lifelong aerobic exercise on cognitive function in old age
  • The effects of evening screen use on cognitive development in preschool children
  • The impact of sleep deprivation on decision-making among graduate students
  • The use of neuroimaging to understand the neural basis of memory retrieval
  • The effect of conservative religious homes on social functioning in LGBT+ adolescents
  • The role of positive emotions in working memory among high school learners
  • The neural basis of decision-making and problem-solving during undergraduate statistic assessments
  • The neural basis of language processing among adults learning English as a second language
  • The role of technological tools in improving working memory in older adults
  • The role of attention in emotional face processing among adult males
  • The impact of depression on cognitive function during ageing The impact of daily meditation and mindfulness practice on cognitive function
  • The relationship between increased protein intake and improved cognitive function
  • The effects of stress on cognitive function among final-year learners

Research topic evaluator

Research Ideas: Developmental Psychology

  • The impact of maternal affection on cognitive, social, and emotional development
  • The effects of parenting styles on children’s executive function
  • The impact of late-night screen use on child development
  • The role of digital play on child development outcomes
  • Exploring the impact of poverty on early child development in Brazil
  • The trauma-informed care as moderating the impact of trauma on child development
  • Evaluating the relationship between peer relationship quality and child social development
  • The impact of child-targeted media and advertising on child behavioural development
  • The role of parental attachment in child resilience
  • The moderating impact of culture on bullying and child social development
  • The impact of single-parenting on child development in India
  • The impact of early educational interventions on child socio-emotional development
  • The impact of digital technology use on adolescent development and mental health
  • The impact of socioeconomic status on child executive function
  • The role of genetics and epigenetics on child neurodevelopmental outcomes linked to depression

Need a helping hand?

topics for a research proposal in psychology

Research Ideas: Educational Psychology

  • The relationship between self-regulated learning and academic performance in asynchronous versus synchronous learning environments
  • Exploring effective parental involvement strategies and their impact on student achievement
  • The role of intrinsic motivation in formative assessment in the classroom
  • The impact of classroom management and practice on student learning and behaviour
  • University students’ preference regarding online learning environments
  • The effects of gentrification on student achievement in traditionally poor neighbourhoods
  • The impact of teacher expectations and academic self-concept on K12 student mathematics performance
  • The use and effectiveness of game-based learning in a high school biology classroom
  • The impact of prejudice on the relationship between student motivation and academic performance among Black university students
  • The impact of culture on second language English student learning preferences
  • The effects of student self-efficacy and engagement on academic performance in secondary school mathematics
  • The role of metacognition in learning musicality in hip hop
  • The role of small group instruction on teacher efficacy and stress in early childhood education
  • The perception and use of multimedia among high school biology teachers in France
  • The use of augmented reality applications and its impact on student learning, motivation and attitude

Research Ideas: Forensic Psychology

  • The impact of trauma on the psychological functioning of police officers and first responders
  • Understanding cultural considerations during forensic psychological assessment and treatment of trauma
  • Ethical considerations of the use of AI in forensic psychology in the legal system
  • The psychological factors related to recidivism among white collar female offenders in the USA
  • The psychological factors related to false confessions among juveniles
  • Understanding the use of psychological assessment in the evaluation of eyewitness testimony in criminal courts in England
  • The impact of trauma on the reflective functioning of adult female sexual assault victims
  • The use and effectiveness of psychological interventions in reducing recidivism among non-violent criminals
  • The impact of domestic violence on the mental health and forensic evaluation of men
  • Exploring the ethical considerations and use of behavioural analysis in the study of criminal behaviour
  • The use and limitations of neuropsychological assessment in forensic evaluations
  • The use of social media forensics in evaluating criminal behaviour in violent crimes
  • The racialised use of psychological assessment in the evaluation of competency to stand trial in Canada
  • Exploring the use and availability of virtual reality technologies in forensic psychology in Spain
  • The impact of motivational interviewing-based interventions among criminalized drug users

Research Ideas: Social Psychology

  • The impact of prejudice and discrimination on social behaviour among African immigrants in South Africa
  • The impact of social networks on behaviour and well-being among young adult females
  • The effects of social identity on non-conformity in University students
  • The effects of group dynamics on risk-seeking behaviour in adult men
  • The impact of social media on the quality of interpersonal relationships among high school learners
  • The impact of parental emotional intelligence on pro-social behaviour in children and adolescents
  • The effects of conformity and deviance on social attitudes and behaviour during a global recession
  • The effects of Tik Tok on social comparison and self-esteem among teenage girls
  • Understanding gendered differences in social influence and algorithms on impulsive decision-making
  • The effects of social support on mental health among healthcare workers in the UK
  • The effects of gender roles on social behaviour among trans teens
  • The impact of perceived power and social status on the behaviour of social media influencers
  • The impact of social norms on prosocial behaviour among women
  • The effects of community participation on aggression and violence in middle-aged men
  • The impact of culture and gender on social behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic

Research Ideas: Sports Psychology

  • The moderating role of cultural factors on the relationship between mental health and sports performance in team sports
  • The role of mindfulness practice in addressing stress and anxiety in young national athletes
  • The relationship between team cohesion and performance in cricket teams
  • The effect of transformational leadership on female sports teams in Canada
  • The effect of positive self-talk on athletic performance and motivation among Olympic athletes
  • The use and perception of hypnosis in New Zealand team sports Understanding stress and burnout in University team athletes
  • The efficacy of personalised nutrition and diet on athletic performance among sprinters
  • Exploring mental preparation techniques and their effect on athletic motivation and resilience among team-sport athletes
  • Exploring the perception and understanding of goal-setting characteristics on athletic performance among team coaches
  • The effects of motivational feedback on the performance of female gymnasts
  • The perception and use of visualization and imagery among coaches as a means to enhance sport performance
  • The impact of sports injuries on mental health and recovery in high school athletes
  • The moderating role of sleep on mental toughness and sports performance in Olympic athletes
  • The use and perception of technology in sports training and performance in little league softball

Free Webinar: How To Find A Dissertation Research Topic

Psychology-Related Dissertations & Theses

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic in psychology, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses to see how this all comes together in practice.

Below, we’ve included a selection of research projects from various psychology degree programs to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

  • Effects of a Patient Question Prompt List on Outpatient Palliative Care Appointments (McDarby, 2022)
  • The role of affect and exercise goals in physical activity engagement in younger and older adults (Stojanovic, 2022)
  • Lay Theories about Whether Emotion Helps or Hinders Reasoning and Well-being (Karnaze, 2022)
  • The effects of blast-induced traumatic brain injury on two transgenic models of Alzheimer’s Disease (Gann, 2020)
  • Understanding the parental mind: Examining the stability of parental reflective functioning across the birth of a child and associations with maternal mind-mindedness (Pitzen, 2021)
  • An investigation of ineffective ally behaviours (Collier, 2019)
  • Response Inhibition-Related Beta Power: Distinguishing Cognitively Intact Elders by Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease (Evans, 2021)
  • Recognition Memory of Extremely High-Frequency Words (Miller, 2019)
  • The Relationship between Dementia Caregiver Burden and Caregiver Communications in a Memory Clinic Setting (Martin, 2021)
  • Examination of Maternal Versus Paternal Ratings of Child Pre-Injury Functioning in Predicting Child Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms (Sayer, 2021)
  • Electromyography As A Means of Predicting The Rubber Hand Illusion (Teaford, 2021)
  • Linking Diversity Climate and Feedback Seeking Through Interpersonal Processes and Race Effects (Flores, 2021)

Looking at these titles, you can probably pick up that the research topics here are far more specific and narrowly-focused , compared to the generic ones presented earlier. This is an important thing to keep in mind as you develop your own research topic. That is to say, to create a top-notch research topic, you must be precise and target a specific context with specific variables of interest . In other words, you need to identify a clear, well-justified research gap.

Fast-Track Your Topic Ideation

Still unsure about how to find the right topic for your research project? Check out our private coaching services , where we work with psychology students on a 1:1 basis to help them find the perfect topic.

You Might Also Like:

Topic Kickstarter: Research topics in education

10 Comments

Mariam Nakamanya

Great insight

Tom Byaruhanga

A very interesting site that offers a variety of options regarding research topics.

Derek Jansen

You’re most welcome

Aiman Kanwal

A good platform to get information

Chiemerie Lucy Okolo

Amazing and interesting options 👌

Mahwish Haris Awan

Very useful but had not any field of research in health psychology

Aishah

I feel honored going through this lovely stuff put together. Thank you so much

Olaniyan Olatunbosun

I need counseling psychology research topics

Fiso Ncube

very empowering and insightful presentations. Can I be assisted in crafting a school psychology-related research topic about African context

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Print Friendly

We use cookies on reading.ac.uk to improve your experience, monitor site performance and tailor content to you

Read our cookie policy to find out how to manage your cookie settings

This site may not work correctly on Internet Explorer. We recommend switching to a different browser for a better experience.

Writing your research proposal

When applying to study for a PhD or MPhil in the School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, you will typically need to send us an initial 500-word research proposal.

The content and structure of your research proposal will be influenced by the nature of the project you wish to pursue. The guidance and suggested headings provided here should help you to structure and present your ideas clearly.

Your initial research proposal

When writing your initial research proposal, you can either address it to the School generally, or to a specific supervisor if you have one in mind. 

Potential supervisors in the School will review your initial research proposal, and get in touch with you to discuss it. Your proposal may change following this conversation. Depending on the supervisor and the outcome of this discussion, you may be asked to produce a longer research proposal of between 2,000 and 4,000 words.

Tips on writing a research proposal

Before you write your research proposal, we strongly recommend that you check our  research page  and  individual supervisor profiles  to view our areas of expertise.

  • You should avoid the use of overly long sentences and technical jargon.
  • It is important that the proposed research is realistic and feasible so that the outcomes can be achieved within the scale of a typical research degree programme. This is usually three years full-time for a PhD (or two years for an MPhil). 
  • A strong research proposal can and should make a positive first impression about your potential to become a good researcher. It should demonstrate that your ideas are focused, interesting and realistic.

Although you should write your proposal yourself, it is best if you discuss its contents with your proposed supervisor before you submit it. If this is not possible, then try to get someone else (such as an academic at your current or previous institution) to read and comment on it to ensure that it is sufficiently clear.

Your proposal needs a clear working title that gives an indication of what you want to study. You are not committed to continuing with the same title once you begin your studies.

Research question

For many projects, you'll usually address one main question, which can sometimes be broken down into several sub-questions. However, it's OK to have two or three research questions where appropriate.

In your research proposal, you'll need to state your main research question(s), explain its significance, and locate it within the relevant literature, in order to set out the context into which your research will fit. You should only refer to research that is directly relevant to your proposal. 

Questions to address in your research proposal

You will need to address questions such as:

  • What is the general area in which you will be working, and the specific aspect(s) of that area that will be your focus of inquiry?
  • What is the problem, shortcoming, or gap in this area that you would like to address?
  • What is the main research question or aim that you want to address?
  • What are the specific objectives for the proposed research that follow from this?
  • Why is the proposed research significant, why does it matter (either theoretically or practically), and why does it excite you?
  • How does your work relate to other relevant research in the department?

Methodology

You will need to explain how you will go about answering your question (or achieving your aim), and why you will use your intended approach to address the question/aim. 

Questions you might need to address include:

  • What steps will you take and what methods will you use to address your question? For instance, do you plan to use quantitative or qualitative methods?
  • How will your proposed method provide a reliable answer to your question?
  • What sources or data will you use?
  • If your project involves an experimental approach, what specific hypothesis or hypotheses will you address?
  • What specific techniques will you use to test the hypothesis? For example, laboratory procedures, interviews, questionnaires, modelling, simulation, text analysis, use of secondary data sources.
  • What practical considerations are there? For example, what equipment, facilities, and other resources will be required?
  • What relevant skills and experience do you have with the proposed methods?
  • Will you need to collaborate with other researchers and organisations?
  • Are there particular ethical issues that will need to be considered (for example, all projects using human participants require ethical approval)?
  • Are there any potential problems or difficulties that you foresee (for example, delays in gaining access to special populations or materials) that might affect your rate of progress?

You will need to provide a rough timeline for the completion of your research to show that the project is achievable (given the facilities and resources required) in no more than three years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) for a PhD, and two years for an MPhil.

Expected outcomes

You need to say something about what the expected outcomes of your project would be.

How, for example, does it make a contribution to knowledge? How does it advance theoretical understanding? How might it contribute to policy or practice?

If you are aiming to study for a PhD, then you need to say how your proposed research will make an original contribution to knowledge. This is not essential if you are aiming to study for an MPhil, although you will still need to show originality in the application of knowledge.

List of references

You will need to provide a list of any key articles or texts that you have referred to in your proposal.

References should be listed in the appropriate style for your subject area (e.g. Harvard). You should only reference texts that you think are central to your proposed work, rather than a bibliography listing everything written on the subject. 

Format and proofreading

Make sure that your proposal is well structured and clearly written. It is important that you carefully check your proposal for typographical and spelling errors, consistency of style, and accuracy of references, before submitting it.

The proposal should be aesthetically well presented, and look professional (e.g. no font inconsistencies, headings clearly identifiable). If you include figures, then they should be accompanied by captions underneath).

How to apply for a PhD

topics for a research proposal in psychology

PhD opportunities

alt=""

Our research

alt=""

Take the next step

  • How to apply
  • Get a prospectus
  • Ask us a question
  • Learn about the Doctoral and Researcher College

topics for a research proposal in psychology

Research Topics

Cutting-edge research into the workings of the human mind

Our faculty conducts scientific research on topics that span across all areas of psychology. Some themes of research concentration are listed below. Click the topics to see the list of department faculty associated with each theme.

slot machin

Addictive Behaviors

elderly hands and cane

Computational Approaches

girl with plants

Decision Science

Lego blocks

Developmental Approaches

textbooks and a red apple on a desk

Interventions

heads talking to each other

Learning & Memory

mathematical notations in the shape of a brain

Mathematical Cognition

swiss army knife inside brain

Meaning & Mental Representation

competitive swimmer

Motivation & Emotion

brain imaging

Neuroimaging

tree branches intersecting

Plasticity & Change

neurons firing inside brain

Psychopathology & Risk

rubik's cube

Reasoning & Problem Solving

chess pieces and mirror

Self & Identity

pile of chocolate chip cookies

Self-Regulation & Control

brains with cogs inside

Social Cognition

clip art people

Stereotyping & Stereotype Threat

eye iris

Vision Science

wooden letter die

Words & Categories

  • How It Works

100 Psychology Thesis Topics for 2023

psychology thesis topics

Students know the importance of developing great psychology dissertation topics for a graduate assignment. However, many don’t have the time to brainstorm ideas that meet the requirements their professors expect. We’ve done a lot of the heavy lifting and have put together a list of 100 psychology thesis topics suitable for several situations. Feel free to pick a topic and start writing your thesis proposal .

General Psychology Topics for High School

  • Give five top reasons why you would want to become a psychologist.
  • What kind of influence has psychology research had in other sciences?
  • Why are teenagers at higher risk of developing an eating disorder?
  • How are phobias developed in children under the age of twelve?
  • In what ways did Pavlov’s conditioning experiment contribute to our understanding of addiction therapy?

Child Psychology Research Paper Topics

  • What are the major differences between psychiatry and psychology?
  • Discuss mental tools that can be used to determine when children are lying to adults.
  • What were the ethical complications involve 12d in the Little Albert Experiment?
  • What does research suggest is the origin of intelligence in children?
  • How does emotional intelligence in children affect their learning abilities?

Cognitive Psychology Topics

  • How did Alan Turing’s suggestion that the brain is an organized machine lead to computers?
  • Do the “seven chunks of information” still hold through in research?
  • Can we develop working memory to retain greater long-term memory?
  • Can a person that has been convicted of a felony charge change into a law-abiding citizen?
  • How can cognitive therapy be used to help patients suffering from emotional disorders?

Developmental Psychology Topics

  • How do our perceptions of our experiences affect development in teenagers?
  • What are the four levels of development and which is most important in children?
  • Can a moral judgment be taught to toddlers who have latent reasoning skills?
  • How are our personalities developed through the influence of others?
  • Are children naturally beholden to one parent or the other?

Social Psychology Topics for College Students

  • How are a person’s original opinions influenced by the opinions of larger groups?
  • What psychological effects does spending too much time on social media have?
  • How do social psychologists deal with aggression and violence in young adults?
  • What impact has social psychology had on our understanding of online bullying?
  • How do family dynamics change when a member of the immediate family dies?

Sports Psychology Research Topics

  • Does aging have a bigger impact on retired athletes’ mental health than head trauma?
  • How is mental health affected by long recovery schedules for serious body injuries?
  • How does neuro-linguistic programming in professional athletes affect performance?
  • How do professional athletes mentally prepare for competitions?
  • How have approaches to sports training and preparation been affected by developments in psychology?

Controversial Topics in Psychology

  • How did the Milgram Obedience Experiments of the 1960s help us understand how we view authority figures?
  • How did the Stanford Experiment help further our knowledge of situational variables on human behavior?
  • How did Harlow’s experiments of affection (especially the lack of affection) lead to advancements in child development theories?
  • Does the implementation of capital punishment on sex offenders prevent them from committing a crime?
  • What is the link between criminal acts and teenagers that were bullied?

Health Psychology Topics for College Students

  • What impact do regular exercise and healthy eating have on mental health in young adults?
  • How have the media’s depictions of body ideals have negatively impacted how young adults see themselves?
  • What are the most effective strategies for getting people to develop healthy eating habits?
  • What can local governments do to help people maintain mental health after a disaster?
  • How do stress management techniques help people cope with difficult situations in the workplace?

More Controversial Psychology Topics

  • What did the “lost in a mall” study lead to a better understanding of how memories are formed and stored?
  • Why was were the Voodoo Correlation studies of the 1960s so controversial and what did they reveal about human behavior?
  • What did showing a lack of affection in infants reveal about the need to nurture one’s young?
  • What did the Kirsch Anti-Depressant reveal about the impact that harmless placebos have on humans?
  • What are the potential risks of taking part in multiple health studies throughout a given year?

Great Educational Psychology Topics

  • How can different technologies help students perform better at school?
  • Does working in a small group help students retain more information?
  • How does physical activity help students perform better on standardized tests?
  • What psychological factors should teachers consider as they develop each year’s curriculum?
  • In what ways do psychologists help develop confidence in students with learning disabilities?

Excellent Cultural Psychology Topics

  • What are some of the most difficult cultural situations young people face?
  • In what ways does developing culture roots with one’s family positively impact social behavior?
  • What stresses do young people feel when they return to their native countries?
  • What impact does cultural learning have on students in elementary school?
  • How does family support help young people cope with difficult decisions?

Psychology Topics to Write About

  • Why are adolescents more at risk of developing some type of eating disorder?
  • What are the negative effects of insomnia in patients being treated in a medical facility?
  • In what ways does group therapy positively impact a patient’s ability to overcome addiction?
  • Why should therapists refrain from prescribing ADHD medications to children?
  • What are the most effective ways of treating PTSD without using prescription medication?

Abnormal Psychology Topics

  • What are the psychological effects of telling either a truth or a lie among young adults?
  • What are the major causes of borderline personality disorder in teenagers?
  • In what ways does the level of insanity change in patients under specific treatment?
  • Why are some people more prone to suffer from personality disorders?
  • Can the Oedipus complex first introduced by Freud be used in treatment today?

Developmental Psychology Research Topics

  • What role does television media play in promoting violence in adults?
  • What are the major psychological characteristics in a child prone to aggression?
  • What are the major factors in sociopathic behavior among youth?
  • What are some traditional ways of parenting that have been proven ineffective?
  • What environmental factors increase the chances of child abuse by a parent?

Biological Psychology Topics

  • How are cognitive diseases related to the development of certain disorders?
  • How are our perceptions of the world around us affecting the way we behave?
  • Can alcohol addiction and other drug-related dependencies be tied to genetics?
  • Does biology prevent humans from experiencing a pure sense of free will?
  • In what ways does functionalism play into biological psychology?

More Sports Psychology Topics

  • What are the negative effects on the mind of exercising to lose weight?
  • How is having a network of supporters important for athletic performance?
  • How does the attention of PHDs affect the way people feel about sports?
  • What impact do sports role models have on a youth’s development?
  • Is the NCAA giving an adequate education to its student-athletes?
  • What are the most effective ways of dealing with school bullying?
  • What are the major causes of psychopathic tendencies in teenagers?
  • How does our modern society deal with gender roles?
  • What are the key characteristics that improve the abilities to learn a new language?
  • Do children require a good foundation to excel academically?

Forensic Psychology Topics

  • How can psychology be used to identify and put suspects on trial for certain crimes?
  • How has forensic psychology assisted in the way we look at death penalty cases?
  • Can psychotic disorders be reevaluated as a result of better psych understanding?
  • Should mental diseases be considered in capital punishment cases?
  • How would you evaluate the mitigating effects of capital cases in people?

What did you think of our list of psychology thesis topics? Our professional dissertation writers keep our list of ideas up-to-date so that students are always pushing the envelope of research in every discipline. Check back for new general psychology topics or contact us to have a list custom-made for a specific research project.

gender research topics

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Comment * Error message

Name * Error message

Email * Error message

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

As Putin continues killing civilians, bombing kindergartens, and threatening WWIII, Ukraine fights for the world's peaceful future.

Ukraine Live Updates

Research Paper Guide

Psychology Research Topics

Last updated on: Dec 19, 2023

Psychology Research Topics - 170+ Ideas for Your Paper

By: Nathan D.

17 min read

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Feb 10, 2023

Psychology Research Topics

Choosing psychology research topics is not as easy as one might think. If you have to write a good research paper, choosing a good topic is the foremost step. You may have several ideas in your mind while thinking of a topic for the research paper.

Good  research paper writing  needs a good topic. If you have chosen a broad topic, you will have to do a lot of research and background study. It is better to choose a narrow topic to focus on a particular subject while researching and writing.

Psychology is a vast subject that discusses different multidisciplinary issues and brings together a wide range of topics.

You can conduct analysis and research before deciding your topic. This is the reason that it is better to go for a narrow topic. It is also easier for the researcher to research the topic in psychology and conduct analysis with proper details.

Psychology Research Topics

On this Page

How to Choose a Topic?

You can choose a topic from any social branch of psychology. You can also select a topic that is related to some sort of mental illness or mental disorder.

The topic may be complex and require a lot of research and analytical study. But the writer can cover all the aspects of the specific topic.

Choosing a good topic is the essential step when you start writing a research proposal. An interesting and new topic is what catches your teacher’s attention. And it gets your idea accepted, apart from, of course, a well-written proposal itself.

Studying some good psychology topics for your papers is the first step when conducting research. Once you have selected the topic, the next step is writing the research paper.

Topic Generator

Discover Captivating Topics in a Click!

Psychology Research Topics For High School Students

High school students often explore psychology through research as a great way to learn more. With so many interesting topic, it can be hard to decide which one to study. 

Here are some ideas for psychological research topics that may help narrow down your search.

  • How does color affect human behavior?
  • Examine the mental health of children with disabilities
  • Analyzing the effects of racism on an individual's mental health 
  • The role of technology in student learning
  • Investigating the correlation between depression and social media usage 
  • Is there a connection between video games and violence?
  • Understanding the impact of childhood trauma on adult behavior 
  • Exploring gender identity in adolescence 
  • How does sleep deprivation affect mental health?
  • Examine the psychological effects of media consumption on teenagers

Psychology Research Topics for College Students

If you are a psychology student struggling to develop a topic for your research, the following ideas will be helpful. The professional writers of 5StarEssays.com have gathered some exceptional topics to help college students draft compelling papers.

  • The social identity theory of Tajfel and Turner.
  • Significance of strong self-perception?
  • REM phase and continuous sleep disruption.
  • How does the brain function when a person is in love?
  • Differences in the functioning of the brain of a man and woman.
  • How do different forms of amnesia damage brain activity?
  • Can PTSD lead to Alzheimer’s disease?
  • Impact of yoga on human psychology.
  • An autistic brain under MRI.
  • Causes and effects of sleep paralysis
  • How to treat multiple personality disorders?
  • Symptoms and treatment of ADHD
  • Social factors that trigger panic attacks.
  • Symptoms, causes, and treatment of dementia
  • Similarities and differences among midlife crises of a man and a woman.

Research Topics In Psychology For University Students

Psychology allows us to explore the depths of human behavior and gain insight into why people think, feel, and act the way they do. For university students interested in exploring this area further, there are many interesting research topics to choose from. 

Here are some options to consider:

  • The Role of Genetics in Mental Health
  • How Technology Impacts Mental Health Outcomes
  • The Psychological Impact of Racism
  • Cyberbullying Prevention Strategies
  • Sleep and Memory
  • The Influence of Social Media on Adolescents’ Self-Esteem
  • The Effects of Music on Emotion
  • Mental Health Stigma in the Workplace
  • The Role of Gender in Mental Health
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a Treatment for Stress

Criminal Psychology Research Paper Topics

  • The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Criminal Behavior 
  • Examining the Impact of Poverty and Socioeconomic Disadvantage on Crime Rates 
  • Exploring the Role of Technology in Modern Day Crime 
  • Investigating Media Portrayals of Criminals and their Effectiveness 
  • Analyzing Trends and Patterns in Juvenile Delinquency 
  • Examining the Effectiveness of Drug Abuse Treatment Programs on Criminal Behavior 
  • Understanding the Relationship between Mental Illness and Crime 
  • Exploring Effective Strategies for Rehabilitating Criminals in Prisons 
  • Investigating the Impact of Religion on Criminal Mindsets 
  • Examining Gender Differences in Criminal Behavior 

Biological Psychology Research Paper Topics

  • The Role of Neurotransmitters in Emotional Regulation 
  • Brain Development and the Impact of Early Childhood Experiences 
  • Exploring Neural Network Connectivity and Its Role in Behavior 
  • How Do Cortical Mechanisms Contribute to Cognitive Processes? 
  • The Effects of Stress on Memory Formation 
  • The Impact of Social Interactions on the Development of Mental Illness 
  • Examine the Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Functioning 
  • Investigating Neuroplasticity in Response to Environmental Stimuli 
  • Exploring Hormone-Induced Changes in Brain Activity  
  • The Role of Neurotransmitters in Addiction 
  • Exploring Sex Differences in Brain Circuitry and its Impact on Behavior.

Social Psychology Research Topics

  • Racism and its effects
  • What is Homophobia?
  • Social issues involving or related to culture
  • What is social depression?
  • What is social cognition?
  • How does social anxiety affect people?
  • Gender roles in our society
  • Gender discrimination and its causes
  • How does peer pressure affect teenagers?
  • Effect of marital disputes on children
  • How do violent video games affect children and their brain development?
  • Effect of violent cartoons on children's behavior and mental state
  • How does divorce affect the emotional development of a child?
  • Social anxiety and social depression on an introverted child
  • How does bullying affect the social interaction of teenagers in high school or college?

Cognitive Psychology Research Topics

  • What are the effects of attention deficit or hyperactivity disorder on the development of a child?
  • Discuss the effects of Autism.
  • How is color psychology effective in cognitive development studies?
  • What is the attention span, and how to measure it?
  • Memory loss and different ways to recover it
  • How do memories affect the behavior of individuals?
  • Which factors can help improve problem-solving abilities in children?
  • What is a speech disorder, and how does it affect cognitive development?
  • What is critical thinking, and how to measure its ability in cognitive psychology?
  • How can subconsciousness affect decision-making ability?
  • Increasing violence among teenagers and children
  • What causes bullying behavior among children?
  • Factors that can contribute to delay in the mental development of a child.
  • The effect of romantic movies on a child
  • Is single parenting suitable for a child’s mental development?

Order Essay

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Controversial Psychology Research Paper Topics

  • The influence of video games on aggression in teenagers
  • Gender roles in society: An analysis of stereotypes
  • The impact of race and ethnicity on mental health
  • The effects of television violence on children’s behavior
  • Attitudes towards death penalty: Should it be abolished?
  • Causes and effects of anxiety disorders
  • The effectiveness of psychotherapy in treating depression
  • The role of media in promoting body image dissatisfaction among youth
  • Is intelligence determined mainly by genetics or environment?
  • Impact of poverty on psychological development
  • Workplace bullying and its consequences for employees’ mental health 

Cultural Psychology Research Paper Topics

  • Analyzing the Role of Social Communication Platforms in Shaping Culture 
  • Examining the Impact of Cultural Diversity on Mental Health 
  • Exploring Linguistic Influences on Cognitive Development 
  • Investigating How Media Portrayal Affects Cultural Expectations and Ideologies 
  • Assessing the Influence of Different Cultural Values on Identity Development 
  • Studying the Relationship between Cultural Practices and Gender Roles 
  • Examining Intergenerational Transmission of Culture through Family Dynamics 
  • Analyzing the Effects of Political and Economic Structures on Cultural Beliefs and Behaviors 
  • Understanding How Social Norms Impact Moral Decision Making 
  • Investigating the Impact of Religion on Cultural Attitudes and Practices 

Developmental Psychology Research Topics

  • Bullying and its effect on mental development.
  • The role of media and cartoons in increasing violence.
  • How violent video games and cartoons can make children violent?
  • Underlying causes that can create a serial killer
  • Causes of increase in the psychopathic behavior of teenagers and youth
  • Stereotypes and gender roles in our society
  • Abusive parents and child development
  • Effects of child abuse on the mental development of a child
  • Factors that can accelerate the aging process
  • Is psychology related to the aging process?
  • Long term effects of mental health issues
  • How can drugs affect our youth’s mental health in the long run?
  • The effects of medication on your mental health
  • Effects of postpartum depression on mental health
  • How does sleeping disorder lead to other mental illnesses?

Found a topic to write about but don’t know how to start? Here’s an informative video on how to write your research paper.

Abnormal Psychology Research Topics

  • What are the causes of the increasing anorexia rate in children?
  • Causes of anorexia in adults
  • Causes of anxiety disorder and how to overcome it
  • Why is there an increase in eating disorders among the youth?
  • What are the factors that contribute to an eating disorder?
  • Is lying related to the psychology of a person?
  • Causes of the rise in teenage suicides
  • Is asexuality related to the psychology of a person?
  • Psychology and suicidal thoughts
  • How to control anxiety and depressing thoughts regarding death?
  • What factors can cause multiple personality disorders?
  • Violent video games are a cause of mood disorders among children.
  • Reasons for phobias and how to deal with them
  • Causes of PTSD in offices or workplace
  • Is stalking considered a psychological disorder?

Clinical Psychology Research Topics

  • Psychology can be used to get control of chronic pain.
  • Recent studies suggest that anxiety and panic attacks can be treated using cognitive therapy.
  • Is behavioral therapy effective in treating criminals?
  • Antidepressants can be addictive, and their usage should be avoided.
  • Factors that contribute to post-traumatic stress disorder
  • What are the therapy practices effective in dealing with depression?
  • Effect of an abusive relationship on the psychology of the victim
  • Are antidepressants effective as a remedy for therapy?
  • Insomnia – How to treat it in a clinical scenario?
  • Which therapy practices are effective in treating addictions?
  • Panic attacks and anxiety disorder - How to treat them through therapies?
  • Psychological disorders and their clinical treatments
  • Causes of Social anxiety and how to treat them?
  • Phobias and Paranoias - Treatment through medication and therapy.
  • Schizophrenia and the recommended therapies.

Child Psychology Research Topics

  • Describe the legal, ethical, and psychological aspects of adoption.
  • Negligence of parents is the main cause of childhood obesity. Agreed?
  • What are the reasons behind the rising depression in children?
  • Explain the introvert personality. What are the consequences of being an introvert, especially in children?
  • What are the psychological effects of child abuse? Explain the preventive and remedial measures of childhood abuse.
  • What are the consequences of a self-centered mother on a child’s mental wellbeing?
  • Explain the phases of a child’s psychological development and growth.
  • Does the birth order have any effect on a child’s personality and accomplishments? If yes, then explain how and why?
  • How do violent music and video games impact a child’s behavior and mind?
  • What are the different kinds of torture, and what are their effects on a child’s mind and adult life?
  • Causes of increasing depression among the youth
  • What are the physical symptoms of a mental disorder in children?
  • Causes of antisocial behavior among teenagers
  • Causes and effects of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children
  • Impact of spanking on child’s psychology.

Sports Psychology Research Topics

  • What are the future trends in sports psychology? Explain the arguments in light of the high chances of head injuries in football, hockey, and rugby.
  • What are the recent changes in team sport and locker room dynamics in sports? Explain your claims with solid evidence and present some future implications also.
  • What are the reasons for low health in low-income neighborhoods? How can we use sports and physical activities to promote good health?
  • What are the effects and role of the Olympics in promoting sports in the nations that are not active in sports due to underfunding? How can they change their state and invest in games?
  • What role do the psychological tests play in determining whether a new athlete coming from the collegiate level will be prone to steroids or violence?
  • What are the psychological implications of having a well-known coach on the team? Does it matter if the coach is famous?
  • What are the problems faced by young and new coaches? Do they feel pressured and are more prone to injuries? State the reasons with examples.
  • Explain the term team chemistry. What is the role of team chemistry in building a sound team and supporting the teammates?
  • What are the tactics that athletes can use to control and manage their emotions effectively? Discuss the role of negative emotions in violent sports like boxing.
  • How has sport psychology evolved in the last twenty years?
  • Significance of sports psychology to promote mental health.
  • Effects of steroids on the mental activity of athletes. How does it negatively affect you? What can be done to avoid it?
  • Relationship issues and the sports performance of an athlete. How are they related?
  • Are panic attacks common in a sportsman’s life? How to deal with them?
  • How does a sleeping disorder influence the stamina of the sportsman?

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

Experimental Psychology Research Topics

  • Can colors play a role in enhancing a person’s mood? Explain how the color blue can make a person feel relaxed and calm.
  • Explain the notorious human experiments in history. What are their ethical shortcomings?
  • What is the impact of breakfast on a person's overall day-to-day activities?
  • What is the relationship between the use of social media and the rising cases of violence in adolescents?
  • It is said that geniuses are made, not born. How true is this statement?
  • Explain the term Mood Freezing and its implications.
  • What is hindsight bias, and how can it be prevented?
  • What is a double foot-in-door, and how is it used to manipulate someone?
  • What affects the heuristic? Explain it with examples.
  • Human cloning can be the answer for childless couples. How true is the statement?
  • Causes and effects of dehumanization in Stanford prison.
  • Analysis of Milgram’s shock experiment on the unfamiliar environment.
  • How can aggression be controlled?
  • Obedience and compliance as a function of social status.
  • How does group belonging influence an individual’s behavior?

Forensic Psychology Research Topics

  • The increasing susceptibility that has led to more home-grown terrorists emerging
  • The effectiveness of rehabilitation in prisons and the criminal justice system
  • Juvenile murders and what factors affect areas with higher rates of murders carried out by children.
  • How does a role in law enforcement impact an individual’s private life?
  • Is enough being done to minimize the risks of those in special education ending up in the penal system?
  • What is the cause of mass killings in the U.S.?
  • Is society neglecting domestic violence that is aimed towards men?
  • Explain the role of the internet, movies, and video games in augmenting copycat crimes.
  • What is internet police? Explain some useful strategies for effective internet policing.
  • What is the role of upbringing in preventing the making of a serial killer? Can a better upbringing prevent it?
  • Rules of conduct to follow by the forensic psychologist in the court.
  • Risk factors for unreliable evidence.
  • Reliability and legitimacy of an eyewitness’s memory.
  • The credibility of the statement of a mentally challenged eyewitness.
  • Rules to follow by psychologists when verbally interacting with criminals in court.

Interesting Psychology Research Topics

  • The effects of media exposure on mental health 
  • The role of social media in the formation of relationships 
  • How childhood experiences shape personality development 
  • The impact of personality traits on academic performance 
  • Relationship between drug use and criminal behavior 
  • Understanding the motivations behind substance abuse 
  • The effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy 
  • Exploring the effects of different parenting styles 
  • Investigating the role of memory in decision making 
  • Examining gender roles and their impact on behavior 
  • Analyzing the relationships between emotion and cognition

Another easy way to choose psychology research paper topics for your research paper is to write about a famous historical person.

The topic, as narrow as it is, allows the researcher to focus on specific areas. You can also choose to research and write about a psychology career. A case study on an individual by providing a detailed analysis using your research techniques will be great.

Some additional  research paper topics  will help you carry out meaningful and interesting research.

Tips to Write a Research Paper

However, there are no universal processes for writing a good research paper, but you can follow the following steps:

1. Develop an outline

Before you start writing your research paper, it’s important to develop an outline that will guide your writing process.  An outline should include the main points and arguments you want to make throughout the paper. It will help keep your ideas organized and help you stay on track.

2. Research thoroughly

Research is the most important part of writing a research paper. 

Make sure you do your due diligence in researching thoroughly and that you’re gathering reliable sources from trusted experts or academics.

3. Develop a thesis statement

Once you have researched, it’s time to develop a thesis statement that’ll act as the main argument throughout your paper. This should be clear and concise while still conveying all the most important points you want to make.

4. Write a first draft

Once you’ve developed an outline and a thesis statement, it’s time to start writing your first draft. This is where you can really get creative and start fleshing out your ideas and arguments in full sentences. 

Remember not to get too bogged down in the details. Just focus on getting your ideas on paper.

5. Use citations

Once you’ve finished your research, it’s important to correctly cite all your sources. 

This will ensure that you’re giving credit where it’s due. It will also help your readers verify the accuracy of your research.

6. Revise and proofread

Once you’ve finished your first draft, it’s time to go back over it and make any necessary revisions or edits. Make sure that all of your arguments are still clear and supported by evidence and that your paper flows in a logical and coherent manner. 

Additionally, make sure you check for any typos, spelling errors, and grammatical mistakes.

After you’ve revised and proofread your research paper, it’s time to submit it! 

Make sure that you follow all the required submission guidelines of the publication or professor you’re submitting to.

Let’s sum it up!

Writing a research paper can seem like an arduous task, but you can write a winning paper with enough determination and focus. Remember to always back up your points with evidence and create a logical flow in order for your message to be effectively communicated. 

With hard work and dedication, you can create an impactful research paper that will engage your readers. So make sure to take the time to hone your skills and craft a compelling piece of writing!

If you need help, here is a complete guide to writing a research paper that includes everything you need to write a perfect paper. 

Not every student has the writing skills or time to dedicate to a research paper. In this case, seeking help from professional writers is the best available option.

5StarEssays.com has a team of professional writers who can write high-quality academic papers, including term papers to custom essays. Ask our writers to ‘ write my essay ’ and avail of all the professional services.

Our professional essay writers have exceptional writing skills, and they can help you with writing assignments within your deadline.

You can also check out AI essay typer and generate parts of your research paper through it with accurate citations to use as reference. 

Nathan D.

Masters Essay, Economics Essay

Nathan completed his Ph.D. in journalism and has been writing articles for well-respected publications for many years now. His work is carefully researched and insightful, showing a true passion for the written word. Nathan's clients appreciate his expertise, deep understanding of the process, and ability to communicate difficult concepts clearly.

Was This Blog Helpful?

Keep reading.

  • How to Write a Research Paper - Writing Guide & Examples

Psychology Research Topics

  • 20+ Thesis Statement Examples for Research Papers

Psychology Research Topics

  • Learn How to Write an Abstract - Steps & Examples

Psychology Research Topics

  • How to Write a Literature Review: Steps and Outline

Psychology Research Topics

  • How to Start a Research Paper - 9 Simple Steps

Psychology Research Topics

  • How to Write a Hypothesis - A Step-by-Step Guide

Psychology Research Topics

  • Writing a Research Proposal - Outline, Format, and Examples

Psychology Research Topics

  • Good Research Paper Topics & Ideas for Students

Psychology Research Topics

  • Good History Research Paper Topics For Your Help

Psychology Research Topics

  • How to Cite a Research Paper with the Help of Examples

Psychology Research Topics

  • How to Write a Research Methodology in 10 Simple Steps

Psychology Research Topics

  • Research Paper Outline - Basic Format & Sample

Psychology Research Topics

  • Research Paper Example: Samples to Write a Research Paper

Psychology Research Topics

  • Great Sociology Research Topics & Ideas (2024)

Psychology Research Topics

People Also Read

  • types of autobiography
  • analytical essay topics
  • writing conventions
  • informative essay writing
  • process analysis essay topics

Burdened With Assignments?

Bottom Slider

Advertisement

  • Homework Services: Essay Topics Generator

© 2024 - All rights reserved

2000+ SATISFIED STUDENTS

95% Satisfaction RATE

30 Days Money-back GUARANTEE

95% Success RATE

linkedin

Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Contact Us

© 2024 5StarEssays.com. All rights reserved.

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT

  • LOG IN Processing...

SIGN UP TO YOUR ACCOUNT

  • Your phone no.
  • Password Password must be minimum 8 characters.
  • Confirm Password
  •    I have read Privacy Policy and agree to the Terms and Conditions .
  • SIGN UP Processing...

FORGOT PASSWORD

  • SEND PASSWORD

  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Therapy Center
  • When To See a Therapist
  • Types of Therapy
  • Best Online Therapy
  • Best Couples Therapy
  • Best Family Therapy
  • Managing Stress
  • Sleep and Dreaming
  • Understanding Emotions
  • Self-Improvement
  • Healthy Relationships
  • Student Resources
  • Personality Types
  • Verywell Mind Insights
  • 2023 Verywell Mind 25
  • Mental Health in the Classroom
  • Editorial Process
  • Meet Our Review Board
  • Crisis Support

Social Psychology Research Topics

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

topics for a research proposal in psychology

Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell.

topics for a research proposal in psychology

Choosing topics for social psychology research papers or projects for class can be challenging. It is a broad and fascinating field, which can make it challenging to figure out what you want to investigate in your research.

Social psychology explores how individual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are affected by social influences. It explores how each person's behavior is affected by their social environment.

This article explores a few different social psychology topics and research questions you might want to study in greater depth. It covers how to start your search for a topic as well as specific ideas you might choose to explore.

How to Find a Social Psychology Research Topic

As you begin your search, think about the questions that you have. What topics interest you? Following your own interests and curiosities can often inspire great research questions.

Choose a Sub-Topic

Social psychologists are interested in all aspects of social behavior. Some of the main areas of interest within the field include social cognition, social influence, and social relationships investigating subtopics such as conformity, groupthink, attitude formation, obedience, prejudice, and so on.

  • Social cognition : How do we process and use information about social experiences? What kinds of biases influence how we engage with other people?
  • Social influence: What are the key social factors that influence our attitudes and behavior? What are group dynamics and how do we understand patterns of behavior in groups?
  • Social relationships : What are the different types of social relationships? How do they develop and change over time?

To help ensure that you select a topic that is specific enough, it can be helpful to start by confining your search to one of these main areas.

Browse Through Past Research

After narrowing down your choices, consider what questions you might have. Are there questions that haven't been fully answered by previous studies? At this point, it can be helpful to spend some time browsing through journal articles or books to see some examples of past findings and identify gaps in the literature.

You can also find inspiration and learn more about a topic by searching for keywords related to your topic in psychological databases such as PsycINFO or browsing through some professional psychology journals.

Narrow Down Your Specific Topic

Once you have a general topic, you'll need to narrow down your research. The goal is to choose a research question that is specific, measurable, and testable. Let's say you want to study conformity; An example of a good research question might be, “Are people more likely to conform when they are in a small group or a large group?” In this case, the specific topic of your paper would be how group size influences social conformity .

Review the Literature on Your Chosen Topic

After choosing a specific social psychology topic to research, the next step is to do a literature review. A literature review involves reading through the existing research findings related to a specific topic.

You are likely to encounter a great deal of information on your topic, which can seem overwhelming at times. You may find it helpful to start by reading review articles or meta-analysis studies. These are summaries of previous research on your topic or studies that incorporate a large pool of past research on the topic.

Talk to Your Instructor

Even if you are really excited to dive right in and start working on your project, there are some important preliminary steps you need to take.

Before you decide to tackle a project for your social psychology class, you should always clear your idea with your instructor. This initial step can save you a lot of time and hassle later on.

Your instructor can offer clear feedback on things you should and should not do while conducting your research and might be able to offer some helpful tips. Also, if you plan to implement your own social experiment, your school might require you to present to and gain permission from an institutional review board.

Thinking about the questions you have about social psychology can be a great way to discover topics for your own research. Once you have a general idea, explore the literature and refine your research question to make sure it is specific enough.

Examples of Social Psychology Research Topics

The following are some specific examples of different subjects you might want to investigate further as part of a social psychology research paper, experiment, or project:

Implicit Attitudes

How do implicit attitudes influence how people respond to others? This can involve exploring how people's attitudes towards different groups of people (e.g., men, women, ethnic minorities) influence their interactions with those groups. For example, one study found that 75% of people perceive men to be more intelligent than women .

In your own project, you might explore how implicit attitudes impact perceptions of qualities such as kindness, intelligence, leadership skills, or attractiveness.

Prosocial Behavior

You might also choose to focus on prosocial behavior in your research. This can involve investigating the reasons why people help others. Some questions you could explore further include:

  • What motivates people to help others?
  • When are people most likely to help others?
  • How does helping others cause people to feel?
  • What are the benefits of helping other people?

How do people change their attitudes in response to persuasion? What are the different techniques that can be used to persuade someone? What factors make some people more susceptible to persuasion than others?

One way to investigate this could be through collecting a wide variety of print advertisements and analyzing how​ persuasion is used. What types of cognitive and affective techniques are utilized? Do certain types of advertisements tend to use specific kinds of persuasive techniques ?

Another area of social psychology that you might research is aggression and violence. This can involve exploring the factors that lead to aggression and violence and the consequences of these behaviors. Some questions you might explore further include:

  • When is violence most likely to occur?
  • What factors influence violent behavior?
  • Do traumatic experiences in childhood lead to more aggressive behavior in adulthood?
  • Does viewing violent media content contribute to increased aggressive behavior in real life?

Prejudice and discrimination are areas that present a range of research opportunities. This can involve studying the different forms that prejudice takes (e.g., sexism, racism, ageism ), as well as the psychological effects of prejudice and discrimination. You might also want to investigate topics related to how prejudices form or strategies that can be used to reduce such discrimination.

Nonverbal Behavior

How do people respond when nonverbal communication does not match up to verbal behavior (for example, saying you feel great when your facial expressions and tone of voice indicate otherwise). Which signal do people respond to most strongly?

How good are people at detecting lies ? Have participants tell a group of people about themselves, but make sure some of the things are true while others are not. Ask members of the group which statements they thought were true and which they thought were false.

Social Norms

How do people react when social norms are violated? This might involve acting in a way that is outside the norm in a particular situation or enlisting friends to act out the behaviors while you observe.

Some examples that you might try include wearing unusual clothing, applauding inappropriately at the end of a class lecture, cutting in line in front of other people, or some other mildly inappropriate behavior. Keep track of your own thoughts as you perform the experiment and observe how people around you respond.

Online Social Behavior

Does online social networking make people more or less likely to interact with people in face-to-face or other offline settings? To investigate this further, you could create a questionnaire to assess how often people participate in social networking versus how much time they spend interacting with their friends in real-world settings.

Social Perception

How does our appearance impact how people respond to us? Ask some friends to help you by having two people dress up in dramatically different ways, one in a professional manner and one in a less conventional manner. Have each person engage in a particular action, then observe how they are treated and how other people's responses differ.

Social psychologists have found that attractiveness can produce what is known as a halo effect . Essentially, we tend to assume that people who are physically attractive are also friendly, intelligent, pleasant, and likable.

To investigate this topic, you could set up an experiment where you have participants look at photographs of people of varying degrees of physical attractiveness, and then ask them to rate each person based on a variety of traits, including social competence, kindness, intellect, and overall likability.

Think about how this might affect a variety of social situations, including how employees are selected or how jurors in a criminal case might respond.

Social psychology is a broad field, so there are many different subtopics you might choose to explore in your research. Implicit attitudes, prosocial behavior, aggression, prejudice, and social perception are just a few areas you might want to consider.

A Word From Verywell

Social psychology topics can provide a great deal of inspiration for further research, whether you are writing a research paper or conducting your own experiment. In addition to some of the social psychology topics above, you can also draw inspiration from your own curiosity about social behavior or examine social issues that you see taking place in the world around you. 

American Psychological Association.  Frequently asked questions about institutional review boards .

Storage D, Charlesworth TES, Banaji M, Cimpian A.  Adults and children implicitly associate brilliance with men more than women .  J Exp Soc Psychol . 2012;90:104020. doi:10.1016/j.jesp.2020.104020

Talamas SN, Mavor KI, Perrett DI. Blinded by beauty: Attractiveness bias and accurate perceptions of academic performance . PLoS ONE . 2016;11(2):e0148284. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0148284

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Examples logo

Psychology Research Proposal

Psychology Research Proposal Examples

Proposals, whatever they may be, may it be a wedding proposal , business proposal , or a research proposal , all have a similar goal. It is to hear the word “yes” from the mouths of the recipient. Despite that, these proposals give different feelings to the proposer. If you are here to get tips on coming up with a research proposal, you get what I mean. Don’t worry, this article will help you get ideas on how to devise your psychology research proposal.

6+ Psychology Research Proposal Examples

1. cognitive psychology research proposal.

cognitive psychology research

2.  Psychology Counselling Research Proposal

couselling psychology research proposal

3. Undergraduate Psychology Research Proposal

undergraduate

Size: 94 KB

4. PhD Psychology Research Proposal

phd pyschology research proposal

Size: 174 KB

5. Forensic Psychology Research Proposal

forensic pyschology research proposal

Size: 353 KB

6. Social Psychology Research Proposal

social pyschology research proposal

Size: 683 KB

7. Psychology Research Grant Proposal

psychology research grant proposal

Size: 599 KB

What Is a Psychology Research Proposal?

A psychology research proposal is an academic document that a person submits to propose a research project, specifically in the field of clinical psychology. The purpose of research proposals is to outline the research questions and summarize your selected research topic. Another necessary reason for creating this proposal is to present ways that you think would be best in conducting the study and justifying it.

How to Compose a Reliable Psychology Research Proposal

There’s a time psychology students dread. It’s the moment that signifies the beginning of hell week or maybe hell month. It is when the professors ask their students to submit their research proposals.  Coming up with a psychology research proposal might cost you a lot of sleepless nights. To get back the sleep that you deserve, instead of pulling your hair out, read this article and follow the steps mentioned below. 

1. Formulate a Working Title

The title of your educational research should reflect what your study will discuss. Omit unnecessary words. Only keep those words that contribute to the meaning and the impact of your title. Make your title engaging to attract the attention of the readers. It is necessary to take a moment to think about a research title that is both powerful and meaningful.

2. Construct Your Abstract

Abstracts should be short and concise. That said, it should be at least a hundred words and three hundred words at most. Describe your research in your proposal but don’t include too many details yet. A good abstract would provide an introduction to the key objectives and the hypothesis of your proposed research.

3. Include Necessary Components

There are necessary components that make an abstract complete. After your title and abstract statement, you should also include the research scope and your methodology. This segment will explain who your respondents are and how you will deal with possible problems you will encounter while conducting your study. Also, you should include the resources that you will use in the process.

4. Devise Your Appendices

Appendices have sections A to E. Appendix A is where you should cite a list of your sources. In the second section, Appendix B is where you should present your project timeline . Your list of skills and achievements relevant to the research belongs in Appendix C. You should detail your budget plan in Appendix D and print your approval letter in the last appendix.

What are interesting psychology research topics?

You can choose from plenty of compelling topics. Discrimination, social cognition, propaganda, gender roles, and bullying are some examples of it. Whatever topic you choose, the quality of your paper depends on how well you carry out your research. Even the most boring topics can be made interesting by a good researcher.

What are the differences between quantitative and qualitative approaches?

These approaches are two very different things. Qualitative research focuses more on analyzing and interpreting ideas, theories, and data. The methods employed in this approach are discourse analysis, content analysis, and thematic analysis. In contrast, quantitative research deals more with statistics and numbers and often involves a research survey , experiment, and testing hypotheses.

What are the qualitative approaches?

You can apply different approaches in conducting qualitative research. The most common ones are narrative research, action research , ethnography, grounded theory, and phenomenological research. Although all of these falls under the qualitative approach, they incorporate different data collection. Researchers implementing these approaches have varying aims. They also have different perspectives in the direction they should take in conducting their thesis.

The study of psychology focuses on people’s minds and cognitive behavior and how they function in different social settings and environments. That said, there are still a lot of mysteries about how people process their thoughts. If your goal is to uncover one of them, take your first step by composing a foolproof psychology research proposal and get it approved.

topics for a research proposal in psychology

AI Generator

Text prompt

  • Instructive
  • Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

  • Knowledge Base
  • Starting the research process
  • How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

Published on October 12, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on November 21, 2023.

Structure of a research proposal

A research proposal describes what you will investigate, why it’s important, and how you will conduct your research.

The format of a research proposal varies between fields, but most proposals will contain at least these elements:

Introduction

Literature review.

  • Research design

Reference list

While the sections may vary, the overall objective is always the same. A research proposal serves as a blueprint and guide for your research plan, helping you get organized and feel confident in the path forward you choose to take.

Table of contents

Research proposal purpose, research proposal examples, research design and methods, contribution to knowledge, research schedule, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research proposals.

Academics often have to write research proposals to get funding for their projects. As a student, you might have to write a research proposal as part of a grad school application , or prior to starting your thesis or dissertation .

In addition to helping you figure out what your research can look like, a proposal can also serve to demonstrate why your project is worth pursuing to a funder, educational institution, or supervisor.

Research proposal length

The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor’s or master’s thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.

One trick to get started is to think of your proposal’s structure as a shorter version of your thesis or dissertation , only without the results , conclusion and discussion sections.

Download our research proposal template

Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services

Discover proofreading & editing

Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We’ve included a few for you below.

  • Example research proposal #1: “A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management”
  • Example research proposal #2: “Medical Students as Mediators of Change in Tobacco Use”

Like your dissertation or thesis, the proposal will usually have a title page that includes:

  • The proposed title of your project
  • Your supervisor’s name
  • Your institution and department

The first part of your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why.

Your introduction should:

  • Introduce your topic
  • Give necessary background and context
  • Outline your  problem statement  and research questions

To guide your introduction , include information about:

  • Who could have an interest in the topic (e.g., scientists, policymakers)
  • How much is already known about the topic
  • What is missing from this current knowledge
  • What new insights your research will contribute
  • Why you believe this research is worth doing

Receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting

Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

  • Academic style
  • Vague sentences
  • Style consistency

See an example

topics for a research proposal in psychology

As you get started, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review  shows your reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory. It also shows that you’re not simply repeating what other people have already done or said, but rather using existing research as a jumping-off point for your own.

In this section, share exactly how your project will contribute to ongoing conversations in the field by:

  • Comparing and contrasting the main theories, methods, and debates
  • Examining the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches
  • Explaining how will you build on, challenge, or synthesize prior scholarship

Following the literature review, restate your main  objectives . This brings the focus back to your own project. Next, your research design or methodology section will describe your overall approach, and the practical steps you will take to answer your research questions.

To finish your proposal on a strong note, explore the potential implications of your research for your field. Emphasize again what you aim to contribute and why it matters.

For example, your results might have implications for:

  • Improving best practices
  • Informing policymaking decisions
  • Strengthening a theory or model
  • Challenging popular or scientific beliefs
  • Creating a basis for future research

Last but not least, your research proposal must include correct citations for every source you have used, compiled in a reference list . To create citations quickly and easily, you can use our free APA citation generator .

Some institutions or funders require a detailed timeline of the project, asking you to forecast what you will do at each stage and how long it may take. While not always required, be sure to check the requirements of your project.

Here’s an example schedule to help you get started. You can also download a template at the button below.

Download our research schedule template

If you are applying for research funding, chances are you will have to include a detailed budget. This shows your estimates of how much each part of your project will cost.

Make sure to check what type of costs the funding body will agree to cover. For each item, include:

  • Cost : exactly how much money do you need?
  • Justification : why is this cost necessary to complete the research?
  • Source : how did you calculate the amount?

To determine your budget, think about:

  • Travel costs : do you need to go somewhere to collect your data? How will you get there, and how much time will you need? What will you do there (e.g., interviews, archival research)?
  • Materials : do you need access to any tools or technologies?
  • Help : do you need to hire any research assistants for the project? What will they do, and how much will you pay them?

If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

  • Sampling methods
  • Simple random sampling
  • Stratified sampling
  • Cluster sampling
  • Likert scales
  • Reproducibility

 Statistics

  • Null hypothesis
  • Statistical power
  • Probability distribution
  • Effect size
  • Poisson distribution

Research bias

  • Optimism bias
  • Cognitive bias
  • Implicit bias
  • Hawthorne effect
  • Anchoring bias
  • Explicit bias

Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement .

Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.

I will compare …

A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.

Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.

A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.

A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.

A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.

All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.

Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.

Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.

The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

McCombes, S. & George, T. (2023, November 21). How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates. Scribbr. Retrieved March 12, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/research-process/research-proposal/

Is this article helpful?

Shona McCombes

Shona McCombes

Other students also liked, how to write a problem statement | guide & examples, writing strong research questions | criteria & examples, how to write a literature review | guide, examples, & templates, what is your plagiarism score.

Join thousands of product people at Insight Out Conf on April 11. Register free.

Insights hub solutions

Analyze data

Uncover deep customer insights with fast, powerful features, store insights, curate and manage insights in one searchable platform, scale research, unlock the potential of customer insights at enterprise scale.

Featured reads

topics for a research proposal in psychology

Product updates

Dovetail retro: our biggest releases from the past year

topics for a research proposal in psychology

Tips and tricks

How to affinity map using the canvas

topics for a research proposal in psychology

Dovetail in the Details: 21 improvements to influence, transcribe, and store

Events and videos

© Dovetail Research Pty. Ltd.

11 social psychology research topics to explore in 2024

Last updated

6 March 2024

Reviewed by

Miroslav Damyanov

Social psychology is a constantly evolving field of study. It explores how our environment and other people influence our thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and goals. Social psychology uncovers how social interaction, perception, and influence impact individuals and groups. 

Taking a specific path to follow your interests and learn more about available areas can narrow your focus to find the ideal research project. 

Let’s take a look at current topics in social psychology to inspire your research. 

  • Understanding social psychology research

Psychologists conduct experiments to better understand how different environmental factors and the influence of other people shape feelings and behaviors. 

Research projects explore various topics, from how a position of power can change behavior to the impact of positive social interactions. 

Various research designs allow researchers to develop projects that range from observational to experimental. 

What is an example of social psychology research?

Zimbardo randomly assigned college students the roles of prison guards or prisoners in a simulated prison environment. Despite knowing their roles were random, the guards exhibited increasing cruelty towards the prisoners. 

Researchers halted the study after six days due to extreme psychological distress. It revealed the profound impact of social roles and situations on human behavior, highlighting how people can adopt negative behaviors when given authority, even in a controlled setting.

  • How to choose social psychology research topics

Social psychology is a diverse, highly studied area of science, so developing a unique project on a relevant topic can be challenging. 

When choosing a subject, begin by exploring your interests. After considering questions you'd like answers to and topics that intrigue you, narrow your scope. Explore specific areas of research, research designs, and subtopics. 

Once you've narrowed down your choices, seek literature and past studies on the subject. Consider how past research can raise additional questions about the topic. 

Develop your ideas by determining how to measure and test your research questions. 

Once you have a firm plan for your project, talk to your instructor for advice and approval before launching your studies. 

  • Social psychology research topics

Social psychology has many nuances that influence human beliefs and behavior. Various elements of situations and relationships affect short- and long-term emotions and actions. 

The major research areas in social psychology are an ideal starting point to investigate as part of a psychology research project. 

These key focus areas within social psychology can be compelling psychology research topics:

1. Attitudes and attitude change

Research projects surrounding attitudes generally examine the components of attitudes and how they develop and can be changed. 

The three components of attitude are affective, behavioral, and cognitive. They’re also known as the ABCs. 

We form attitudes through a combination of upbringing, experience, and genetics. People can self-measure them in surveys or through researchers’ observations. 

Attitudes can change due to influence and environmental factors. They hugely affect human behavior, making them an important research topic in social psychology.

2. Attachment and relationships

Social connections shape our lives from the earliest moments, taking various forms that significantly impact our well-being. These connections have numerous advantages, such as heightened happiness and satisfaction. 

Social psychology explores these connections, examining diverse attachment styles to explain love, friendship, and attraction. 

Research in this domain investigates the repercussions of poorly formed social bonds and seeks to answer questions about how relationships influence group behavior. 

Additionally, studies in social psychology dissect the elements contributing to attraction, shedding light on the intricate dynamics that shape our social bonds and interactions. 

3. Authority and leadership

As revealed in the Stanford Experiment, authority can directly affect behavior. 

However, social psychology can further delve into the dynamics of people interacting with those in leadership roles. 

Milgram's Obedience to Authority study exemplifies this exploration. Stanley Milgram wanted to investigate how easily authority figures could influence people to commit atrocities.

In this study, participants assumed the role of teachers administering electric shocks to learners for incorrect answers. 65% delivered 450 volts of electricity under the directive of an authority figure. 

Research can consider the positive or negative elements of authority based on specific applications, settings, and environments. 

For example, we might consider obedience to authority positive in the workplace or classroom.

Social psychology research about groups delves into how behavior changes in group settings. 

Groups form for various reasons, and everything from leadership to group dynamics can impact how people behave. These behavioral changes can be beneficial or harmful. 

Research into group behavior can focus on decision-making, internal conflicts, conflicts with other groups, how groups affect individual identities, and much more. 

Studies can also investigate how positive group behaviors can influence someone. 

5. Prejudice

Prejudice and discrimination take different forms, which people may not be aware of. The origin and consequences of prejudice present many topics of study for researchers. 

Topics related to how prejudices form and why people maintain inaccurate stereotypes can uncover why people depend on stereotypes to make decisions. 

Many studies focus on the effects of discrimination and how to reduce prejudice. 

Research in this category can overlap with many other categories. For instance, group behavior and social influences can contribute to the formation of stereotypes and social categorization. 

6. Self and social identity

Many elements form the human perception of self. How we perceive ourselves may be substantially different from the viewpoint of others. 

Social psychologists are interested in learning how a person’s self-perception can influence factors like behavior and internal feelings like confidence. 

Our concept of self derives from various sources, such as abilities, social comparisons, interactions with others, and status. 

Researching how the perception of the inner self impacts social behaviors can unveil how social factors influence critical feelings like self-esteem. 

7. Pro- and anti-social behavior

How people’s social surroundings impact the way they respond to certain situations is defined as pro- or anti-social behavior. 

Positive and negative behaviors are based on accepted social norms. How someone responds during a specific event can reinforce or undermine those norms. 

For example, helping a stranger is prosocial, while vandalism is antisocial behavior. 

Studies have shown that prosocial behavior is contagious: Those who experience or observe it are more likely to help others. 

Antisocial behavior can have a similar effect but in a negative direction. Observing seemingly harmless acts, like littering and graffiti, can weaken social norms. This potentially invites more dangerous antisocial behavior.

Researchers can elaborate on this knowledge to consider why people help others without considering personal costs. They can also dig into what deters someone from taking an action they know is "the right thing to do." 

Exploring how society impacts positive and negative behaviors can shed light on ways to reduce negative behavior.

8. Social influence

Persuasion, peer pressure, obedience, and conformity are all forms of social influence. Like other areas of social psychology, these influences can be positive or negative. 

One of the earliest studies on social influence was Soloman Asch’s Conformity Line Experiment . 

Researchers put a participant in a test with seven conformists without knowing the conformists weren't true participants. Researchers asked them to compare the image of a target line with lines A, B, and C on another image. 

Early in the experiment, all conformists answered correctly, followed by the participant, who was always last. 

After a few rounds, the conformists began to provide wrong answers unanimously. On average, about a third of participants followed along with conformists to confirm clearly incorrect answers. 75% of participants confirmed at least one wrong answer. 

The control group had no conformists. Less than 1% of participants gave the wrong answer. 

Doctor and author Robert Cialdini takes the concept of influence further. He identified six universal principles of influence and persuasion to help people defend against dishonest influences. 

His studies conclude that these influences can sway people:

Reciprocation: The feeling we should repay what someone has provided

Social proof: When unsure about a decision, we follow the actions of others 

Liking: We generally agree with people we like and want them to agree with us

Authority: We are more likely to say yes to authority figures

Scarcity: We want more of what is less available

Commitment and consistency: Once we make a choice, we follow it with corresponding actions to justify the decision (even if we no longer believe in the choice)

Researchers can study how social influence guides the decision-making process and explore the positive and negative effects of conformity. Other experiments can explore the consequences of peer pressure and whether it can be beneficial. 

9. Social cognition

In the most basic sense, cognition is the brain gathering and understanding knowledge through sensations, thoughts, and experiences. It allows us to make sense of new information. 

Social cognition is how the brain processes information about individuals and groups of people. It includes the role of heuristics . These mental shortcuts enable us to function without constantly stopping to interpret everything in the environment. 

Research under the umbrella of social cognition can explore first impressions, how appearance affects our judgment, and how social interactions affect behavior. 

These studies can help psychologists understand how someone’s perception of social norms affects their self-image and behavior.

10. Violence and aggression

Exploration into violence and aggression attempts to better understand the factors and situations that cause aggression and how it impacts behaviors. 

Several types of aggressive behavior exist, ranging from gossiping to physical violence. Studies in this area examine the different types of aggression and the variables contributing to aggressive behavior. 

For instance, a pattern of aggression may relate to witnessing the behavior of a family member or traumatic experiences. Conversely, situational variables may trigger a single incidence of aggression.

A greater understanding of the role of social learning in aggressive behavior can lead to research about how social norms and public policy can decrease violent behavior. 

Learning more about the variables contributing to aggression and violence means researchers can use new knowledge to work toward solutions. 

11. Social representations

Social representations are a form of heuristics: a set of beliefs that make something unfamiliar easily understood. They allow people to apply specific bits of evidence-based data to individuals’ or groups’ actions to make ideas more familiar. 

Researchers may study the role of social representations in making new psychological or scientific information accessible to the average person. Studies may explore how we make sense of new information and how people organize and separate facts for rapid learning.

Get started today

Go from raw data to valuable insights with a flexible research platform

Editor’s picks

Last updated: 21 September 2023

Last updated: 14 February 2024

Last updated: 17 February 2024

Last updated: 19 November 2023

Last updated: 5 March 2024

Last updated: 5 February 2024

Last updated: 15 February 2024

Last updated: 12 October 2023

Last updated: 6 March 2024

Last updated: 31 January 2024

Last updated: 10 April 2023

Latest articles

Related topics, log in or sign up.

Get started with a free trial

Glenn Geher Ph.D.

How to Write a Psychology Research Proposal

Writing a brief research proposal cultivates all kinds of intellectual skills..

Posted May 3, 2018 | Reviewed by Matt Huston

Kelsey Newhook

NOTE: This post was co-authored with the SUNY New Paltz students in PSY 307 (1) of Spring 2018 (in particular, Zachary Ertrachter, Mariah Griffin, and Gianna Petrera).

A solid psychology education should lead to all kinds of outcomes related to analytical skills, statistical reasoning, and research design. One of the core skills that I try to cultivate in my students is the ability to write a clear and concise research proposal. Being able to write a solid research proposal demonstrates the following qualities:

* An understanding of some theoretical concepts in the behavioral sciences

* The ability to organize one's ideas in a coherent and efficient way

* The ability to get to the foundation of a set of research ideas

* The ability to write clearly and concisely in a scientific manner

* The ability to describe a hypothesis, proposed methodology, and proposed set of statistical analyses

* The ability to efficiently contextualize one's ideas in the existing scientific literature in some area

* The ability to think about how statistics can be used to examine some research-based predictions

* and probably more

Toward this end, I tend to give the following assignment to students in my undergraduate class in evolutionary psychology :

"Evolutionary psychology is a research-based enterprise. And learning about evolutionary psychology tends to lead people to develop hypotheses about human nature. For this assignment, you are to write a brief paper that does the following:

  • Articulates a hypothesis based on evolutionary reasoning
  • Describes methods that would test this hypothesis
  • Includes predicted outcomes and implications

Importantly, this paper is to be no more than two pages—printed on two sides of a single page. And it should be double-spaced.

This kind of assignment, forcing you to get your ideas reduced in a small space matches the kinds of assignments that professionals have all the time—this assignment will help prepare you for this kind of assignment in your future."

As an end-of-the-semester activity, to demonstrate the process of writing a research proposal, we actually worked together today (5/3/2018) as a class to develop and to fully create a research proposal. The document below is the result of this work. Nice job, evolutionary psychology students!

Research Proposal: A Proposed Study on the Mental Health Effects of Outdoor Experiences

Written by the SUNY New Paltz Spring 2018 Evolutionary Psychology Class

The evolutionary psychological perspective on human behavior suggests that instances of evolutionary mismatch may lead to adverse psychological functioning (e.g., Geher, 2014). Mismatch can exist in multiple domains, including nutritional offerings, exercise, community size, technology, transportation, and the nature of one’s physical environment—among many others.

One important way that modern environments are mismatched to ancestral environments pertains to the proportion of time that people spend in the out of doors. In fact, many evolutionists have made the case that humans have a natural love of the living world (see Wilson, 1984). Based on this reasoning, it may be the case that increased time spent in the outdoors leads to positive mental health outcomes. On the other hand, we might predict that increased time spent in human-made, non-natural environments might have adverse mental health outcomes.

Several mental health outcomes have been documented as important in all kinds of human psychological functioning. In particular, this research will focus on depressive tendencies, tendencies toward anxiety , and general psychological well-being. The basic prediction is that increased out-of-door experiences will correspond to less depression and anxiety and higher scores on a measure of well-being.

topics for a research proposal in psychology

This study will utilize a randomized between-groups design using 200 relatively fit American adults ranging in age from 18-34 selected from Southern California. Using a random-assignment process, participants will be assigned to either (a) the outdoor condition or (b) the indoor condition.

Participants in the two experimental conditions will all be included in a climbing camp for two weeks. The outdoor participants will be at an all-outside version of the camp in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Southern California in September. The indoor participants will be at an all-indoor version of the camp at an indoor climbing gym for the same two weeks. Importantly, these climbing experiences will be overseen by the same Climbing Camp with the same activities and personnel.

This methodology would allow for the isolation of the “out of doors” variable and will have participants across groups have the same experiences otherwise. Given the random assignment to experimental conditions, this methodology would allow for an examination of the specific effects of the outdoor experience.

To measure anxiety, Liebowitz’s (1987) measure of social anxiety will be used. To measure depressive tendencies, Kessler et al.’s (2003) measure will be used. We will create a 5-item Likert scale of subjective well-being that participants will also complete.

Anticipated Results

Across the three outcome measures, including social anxiety, depressive tendencies, and subjective well-being, it is predicted that the outdoor group will score as less anxious, less depressed, and as higher in subjective well-being. These results will be examined using three between-groups t-tests.

Potential Implications

Evolutionists are interested in the mismatches between modern conditions and ancestral conditions. Simply being in the out-of-doors or not is a classic mismatch that surrounds us all the time, often unbeknownst to ourselves. The experimental design here would allow us to zero in on the effects of the outdoor experience as it relates to mental health outcomes, controlling for individual differences between groups.

If the predicted pattern of results is obtained, then we would have strong evidence suggesting that people function best when they are provided with outdoor experiences. Such a pattern would support an evolutionary-mismatch approach to understanding the interface of people with their physical environments.

Here is a PDF link to the two-page paper. Enjoy!

Geher, G. (2014). Evolutionary Psychology 101. New York: Springer.

Kessler, R .C., Andrews, G., Colpe, L.J., Hiripi, E., Mroczek, D.K., Normand, S.L....Zaslavsky,A.M. (2002) Short screening scales to monitor population prevalences and trends in non-specific psychological distress. Psychological Medicine, 32, 959-956.

Liebowitz, M. R . (1987). Social phobia. Modern Problems of Pharmacopsychiatry, 22, 141-173.

Wilson, Edward O. (1984). Biophilia. Cambridge: Harvard University Press

Glenn Geher Ph.D.

Glenn Geher, Ph.D. , is professor of psychology at the State University of New York at New Paltz. He is founding director of the campus’ Evolutionary Studies (EvoS) program.

  • Find a Therapist
  • Find a Treatment Center
  • Find a Support Group
  • International
  • New Zealand
  • South Africa
  • Switzerland
  • Asperger's
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Chronic Pain
  • Eating Disorders
  • Passive Aggression
  • Personality
  • Goal Setting
  • Positive Psychology
  • Stopping Smoking
  • Low Sexual Desire
  • Relationships
  • Child Development
  • Therapy Center NEW
  • Diagnosis Dictionary
  • Types of Therapy

January 2024 magazine cover

Overcome burnout, your burdens, and that endless to-do list.

  • Coronavirus Disease 2019
  • Affective Forecasting
  • Neuroscience

StatAnalytica

151+ Research Proposal Topics [Updated 2024]

Research Proposal Topics

Crafting a compelling research proposal begins with selecting the right topic—a task that demands careful consideration and a thoughtful approach. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the intricacies of choosing research proposal topics, exploring the importance of a well-defined focus and guiding you through the steps to create a robust proposal.

How to Select Research Proposal Topics?

Table of Contents

Selecting research proposal topics is a crucial step in the research process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose a compelling and impactful research topic:

  • Self-reflection:
  • Identify your personal interests, passions, and curiosities.
  • Consider topics that resonate with you on a deep level.
  • Academic and Professional Interests:
  • Reflect on subjects that captivated you during coursework or work experience.
  • Assess the relevance of these interests to your academic or career goals.
  • Current Issues and Trends:
  • Stay informed about contemporary challenges and emerging trends in your field.
  • Choose a topic that addresses current issues for greater relevance and impact.
  • Literature Review:
  • Conduct a thorough review of existing research in your chosen field.
  • Identify gaps and limitations in the current body of knowledge.
  • Formulate Clear Research Questions:
  • Develop clear and concise research questions based on the gaps identified.
  • Ensure your questions are feasible and align with the chosen topic.
  • Choose a Methodology:
  • Select an appropriate research methodology (experimental, qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods).
  • Justify your choice and discuss data collection techniques.
  • Significance and Contribution:
  • Articulate the relevance of your proposed research.
  • Highlight the potential contributions your work can make to the field.
  • Research Design and Plan:
  • Outline the specifics of your research design.
  • Create a realistic timeline, allocating resources and budget effectively.
  • Address Challenges and Limitations:
  • Acknowledge potential challenges and limitations.
  • Discuss strategies to mitigate challenges and be transparent about constraints.
  • Conclusion:
  • Summarize key points of your research proposal.
  • Emphasize the importance of the chosen topic and encourage feedback.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your research proposal topic is not only engaging but also has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to your field of study.

151+ Research Proposal Topics: Category Wise

Science and technology.

  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Job Market Trends
  • Advancements in Renewable Energy Technologies
  • Exploring the Potential of CRISPR Technology in Genetic Engineering
  • Cybersecurity Measures for Critical Infrastructure Protection
  • The Role of Blockchain in Supply Chain Management
  • Augmented Reality in Education: Enhancing Learning Experiences
  • Quantum Computing: Current Status and Future Implications
  • Sustainable Technologies for Environmental Conservation
  • Smart Cities: Integrating Technology for Urban Development
  • Robotics in Healthcare: Applications and Ethical Considerations

Health and Medicine

  • Precision Medicine: Customizing Healthcare Based on Genetic Factors
  • The Impact of Telemedicine on Patient Care
  • Mental Health Stigma: Strategies for Reduction and Education
  • Vaccination Hesitancy: Understanding Causes and Developing Interventions
  • Aging Population and Healthcare Challenges
  • Bioinformatics and Personalized Cancer Therapies
  • The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Diagnosing Medical Conditions
  • Emerging Infectious Diseases: Preparedness and Response Strategies
  • Nutrition Education in Schools: Promoting Healthy Lifestyles
  • Healthcare Disparities: Addressing and Eliminating Gaps in Access

Social Sciences

  • Social Media and its Influence on Political Discourse
  • Impact of Social Isolation on Mental Health in Elderly Populations
  • Cultural Competence in Education: Training and Implementation
  • The Role of Gender Stereotypes in Career Choices
  • Cyberbullying: Prevention and Intervention Strategies
  • The Effects of Immigration Policies on Migrant Communities
  • Restorative Justice in Criminal Justice Systems
  • Examining the Relationship Between Social Media Use and Self-Esteem
  • Intersectionality in Feminist Movements: Challenges and Opportunities
  • Community Policing: Building Trust between Law Enforcement and Communities
  • E-Learning Platforms: Effectiveness and Challenges
  • Inquiry-Based Learning: Enhancing Critical Thinking Skills
  • Inclusive Education Practices: Meeting the Needs of Diverse Learners
  • The Impact of Standardized Testing on Educational Equity
  • School Safety Measures: Strategies for Prevention and Response
  • Teacher Professional Development: Models and Effectiveness
  • Online Education Accessibility for Students with Disabilities
  • Gamification in Education: Engaging Students in Learning
  • Bilingual Education: Benefits and Challenges
  • STEM Education Initiatives: Encouraging Interest in Science and Technology

Business and Economics

  • Sustainable Business Practices: Balancing Profit and Environmental Impact
  • Corporate Social Responsibility in Multinational Corporations
  • Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Business Operations
  • Economic Consequences of Global Health Crises
  • Digital Marketing Trends and Consumer Behavior
  • Financial Literacy Education: Bridging the Gap
  • Small Business Sustainability: Challenges and Strategies
  • The Gig Economy: Implications for Workers and Employers
  • Supply Chain Resilience in the Face of Global Disruptions
  • Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Emerging Markets

Environment and Sustainability

  • Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for Coastal Communities
  • Biodiversity Conservation in Urban Environments
  • Circular Economy Models: Reducing Waste and Promoting Sustainability
  • Water Scarcity: Technological Solutions and Policy Measures
  • Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Ecosystems
  • Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Balancing Production and Conservation
  • Environmental Education in Schools: Fostering Eco-Consciousness
  • Green Building Technologies: Enhancing Energy Efficiency
  • Ecotourism: Balancing Conservation and Economic Development
  • The Role of International Agreements in Addressing Environmental Issues

Psychology and Behavior

  • The Influence of Social Media on Body Image and Self-Esteem
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety and Depression
  • Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Mental Health
  • Positive Psychology Interventions: Enhancing Well-Being
  • Sleep Hygiene and its Impact on Mental Health
  • The Psychology of Procrastination: Causes and Interventions
  • Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace: Benefits and Training
  • The Impact of Parenting Styles on Child Development
  • Cross-Cultural Psychology: Understanding Cultural Influences on Behavior
  • The Role of Music in Emotional Regulation and Stress Reduction

Political Science and International Relations

  • The Rise of Populism: Causes and Consequences
  • Cyber Warfare and International Security
  • Human Rights Violations in Conflict Zones: Challenges and Solutions
  • The Role of International Organizations in Global Governance
  • Political Polarization: Understanding Divisive Trends
  • Nuclear Proliferation and Arms Control Agreements
  • Comparative Analysis of Electoral Systems
  • Immigration Policies and Social Cohesion
  • Global Health Diplomacy: Collaborative Approaches to Health Challenges
  • The Impact of Disinformation on Democratic Processes

History and Cultural Studies

  • Reevaluating Historical Narratives: Perspectives and Interpretations
  • Cultural Impact of Globalization: Trends and Reactions
  • Indigenous Rights and Representation in Historical Context
  • History of Scientific Discoveries and their Societal Impact
  • Archaeological Excavations: Uncovering Lost Civilizations
  • Cultural Appropriation: Examining Controversies and Contexts
  • The Role of Women in Historical Movements
  • Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Challenges and Innovations
  • Historical Trauma and its Contemporary Repercussions
  • Impact of Colonialism on Contemporary Societies

Communication and Media Studies

  • Influence of Social Media on Political Participation
  • Media Representation of Marginalized Groups
  • Fake News and Misinformation: Identifying and Combating Trends
  • The Evolution of Print Media in the Digital Age
  • Media Literacy Education: Navigating Information in the Digital Era
  • Celebrity Culture and its Impact on Society
  • The Role of Public Relations in Shaping Organizational Image
  • Cross-Cultural Communication in Global Business
  • Podcasting as an Emerging Medium of Communication
  • Advertising and Consumer Behavior: Analyzing Persuasion Techniques

Philosophy and Ethics

  • Ethical Considerations in Artificial Intelligence Research
  • Bioethics in Medical Decision-Making
  • Existentialism and its Relevance in Contemporary Society
  • Animal Rights and Ethical Treatment in Scientific Research
  • Environmental Ethics: Balancing Human Needs and Ecological Sustainability
  • The Ethics of Genetic Engineering and Cloning
  • Virtue Ethics in Professional Decision-Making
  • Technology and Privacy: Ethical Dilemmas in the Digital Age
  • Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence in Warfare
  • Utilitarianism and its Application in Ethical Decision-Making

Education Policy and Administration

  • School Voucher Programs: Impact on Educational Equity
  • Teacher Evaluation Systems: Effectiveness and Fairness
  • Inclusive Leadership in Educational Institutions
  • Early Childhood Education: Policy and Implementation
  • Standardized Testing: Implications for Educational Policy
  • Education Funding Models: Challenges and Solutions
  • School Choice and its Impact on Student Achievement
  • Educational Technology Integration in Classroom Settings
  • Community Engagement in School Decision-Making
  • The Role of Educational Leaders in Fostering Inclusive Schools

Economics and Development Studies

  • Microfinance and Poverty Alleviation Strategies
  • Impact of Global Trade Policies on Developing Economies
  • Economic Empowerment of Women in Developing Countries
  • Sustainable Development Goals: Progress and Challenges
  • Rural-Urban Migration: Economic and Social Impacts
  • Financial Inclusion: Strategies for Bridging the Gap
  • Foreign Aid Effectiveness: Assessing Outcomes
  • Technology Transfer and Innovation in Developing Nations
  • Income Inequality: Causes and Policy Solutions
  • The Role of Microenterprise in Local Economic Development

Criminal Justice and Law

  • Restorative Justice: Implementation and Impact on Recidivism
  • Police Body Cameras: Efficacy and Ethical Considerations
  • Cybercrime Laws and Challenges in the Digital Age
  • Juvenile Justice Reform: Strategies for Rehabilitation
  • Bail Reform: Addressing Inequities in Pretrial Detention
  • Criminal Profiling: Validity and Ethical Concerns
  • Drug Policy Reform: Exploring Alternatives to Criminalization
  • The Impact of Hate Crime Legislation on Social Cohesion
  • Eyewitness Testimony Reliability: Challenges and Improvements
  • International Criminal Court: Effectiveness and Challenges

Public Health and Epidemiology

  • Disease Surveillance Systems: Enhancing Early Detection
  • Health Inequalities: Social Determinants and Interventions
  • Maternal and Child Health Interventions in Developing Countries
  • Impact of Health Education on Preventive Behaviors
  • Access to Healthcare Services in Rural Areas
  • Lifestyle Interventions for Chronic Disease Prevention
  • Community-Based Participatory Research in Public Health
  • Mental Health Interventions in School Settings
  • The Role of Public Health in Pandemic Preparedness and Response

Computer Science

  • Explainable Artificial Intelligence: Bridging the Gap Between Performance and Interpretability
  • The Role of Quantum Computing in Revolutionizing Cryptography
  • Ethical Considerations in the Development of Autonomous Vehicles
  • Cybersecurity Challenges in the Internet of Things (IoT) Ecosystem
  • Human-Computer Interaction: Enhancing User Experience in Virtual Reality Environments

How to Compose a Research Proposal?

Composing a research proposal is a systematic process that involves careful planning, organization, and clear articulation of your research idea. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to compose a research proposal:

  • Title: 
  • Create a clear and concise title that reflects the essence of your research.
  • Introduction:
  • Provide background information on the research topic.
  • Clearly state the research problem or question.
  • Justify the importance and relevance of your research.
  • Summarize relevant existing literature.
  • Identify gaps, limitations, and areas for further exploration.
  • Establish a theoretical framework for your study.
  • Research Questions or Hypotheses:
  • Formulate clear and specific research questions or hypotheses.
  • Ensure they align with the research problem and are feasible.
  • Objectives or Aims:
  • Outline the specific goals of your research.
  • Clearly state what you aim to achieve with your study.
  • Methodology:
  • Describe the research design and justify your choice.
  • Detail the data collection methods and tools you plan to use.
  • Address ethical considerations related to your research.
  • Explain the importance of your research.
  • Clearly state the potential contributions your study can make.
  • Provide a detailed plan for executing your research.
  • Include a timeline, milestones, and the allocation of resources.
  • Potential Challenges and Limitations:
  • Acknowledge possible obstacles and limitations.
  • Discuss strategies to address challenges proactively.
  • Summarize the key points of your research proposal.
  • Reiterate the significance of your research.
  • Invite feedback and suggestions.
  • References:
  • Cite all the sources and literature used in your proposal.
  • Follow the appropriate citation style ( APA, MLA, Chicago , etc.).
  • Appendices (if necessary):
  • Include any supplementary materials such as surveys, questionnaires, or additional data.

Tips for Composing a Research Proposal

  • Clarity and Conciseness: Use clear and straightforward language. Avoid unnecessary jargon that may confuse readers.
  • Alignment: Ensure that each section of your proposal aligns with the overall research objective.
  • Feasibility: Confirm that your proposed research is feasible within the given time and resource constraints.
  • Review and Revise: Review your proposal for coherence, consistency, and clarity. Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or advisors and make revisions accordingly.
  • Adherence to Guidelines: Follow any specific guidelines or instructions provided by your institution or funding agency.
  • Engage the Reader: Capture the reader’s attention in the introduction and maintain engagement throughout.
  • Ethical Considerations: Clearly address any ethical concerns related to your research, ensuring compliance with ethical standards.

Selecting research proposal topics is a nuanced process that requires a blend of personal passion, academic rigor, and an understanding of the broader context.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the seas of research proposal development with confidence, ensuring that your chosen topic is not only compelling but also lays the foundation for meaningful and impactful research.

Related Posts

best way to finance car

Step by Step Guide on The Best Way to Finance Car

how to get fund for business

The Best Way on How to Get Fund For Business to Grow it Efficiently

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

📕 Studying HQ

Psychology research proposal topics, bob cardens.

  • September 10, 2022
  • Essay Topics and Ideas

Feeling stuck trying to come up with a good research proposal topic for your psychology class? Look no further! This list of possible topics covers a wide range of psychological areas and subfields, so you’re sure to find one that’s right for you (Psychology Research Proposal Topics

What You'll Learn

1. How do different types of reinforcement affect human behavior ?

2. How does the level of self-awareness affect decision making?

3. How do people’s beliefs about themselves affect their behavior?

4. What is the role of emotions in human decision making?

5. How do different personality types respond to different types of stressors?

6. What are the effects of different parenting styles on children’s psychological development?

7. How do schools and teachers affect students’ academic achievement and social development ?

8. What are the psychological effects of poverty and economic inequality?

9. How do people’s attitudes and beliefs about race and ethnicity affect their behaviors?

10. What are the psychological consequences of trauma and violence?

11. How do people’s beliefs about gender affect their behaviors?

12. What are the psychological effects of media exposure on children and adolescents ?

13. How do different types of families affect children’s psychological development?

14. What are the psychological effects of divorce on children and adults?

15. What are the psychological consequences of chronic illness and disability?

16. How does aging affect people’s psychological functioning?

17. What are the psychological effects of retirement on older adults ?

18. How do people’s religious beliefs and practices affect their psychological functioning?

19. What are the psychological effects of work stress on employees and employers?

20. How does unemployment affect people’s psychological well-being?

21. What are the psychological consequences of living in a violent neighborhood or community?

22. How does exposure to violence in the media affect children and adolescents?

23. What are the psychological effects of natural disasters on survivors?

24. How does cultural change affect people’s psychological functioning?

25. What are the psychological effects of immigration and acculturation on immigrants and their families?

26. What are the psychological effects of economic recession on individuals and families?

27. How do people’s beliefs about mental illness affect their attitudes and behaviors toward mentally ill people?

28. What are the psychological effects of stigma and discrimination on stigmatized groups?

29. How does contact with different racial and ethnic groups affect people’s attitudes and behaviors toward those groups?

30. What are the psychological effects of globalization on people’s attitudes and behaviors?

31. What are the psychological effects of technology addiction?

32. What are the psychological effects of social media use on young people?

33. What are the psychological effects of cyberbullying?

34. What are the psychological effects of online video gaming?

35. What are the psychological effects of social media use on adults?

36. What are the psychological effects of smartphone use?

37. What are the psychological effects of social media use on older adults ?

38. What are the psychological effects of living in a digital world?

39. What are the psychological effects of video game addiction?

40. What are the psychological effects of social media use on adolescents?

41. What are the cognitive and behavioral effects of sleep deprivation?

42. What are the psychological consequences of chronic stress?

43. What are the psychological consequences of traumatic brain injury?

44. What are the psychological consequences of substance abuse?

45. What are the cognitive and behavioral effects of gambling addiction?

46. What are the cognitive and behavioral effects of online social networking addiction?

47. What are the psychological consequences of cyberbullying?

48. What are the cognitive and behavioral effects of video game addiction?

49. What are the psychological consequences of compulsive Internet use?

50. What are the cognitive and behavioral effects of social media use on adolescents?

Argumentative essay topics about animals

You can also check out :

How Many Sentences Are in a Paragraph

Creative Narrative Essay Topics

Creative Synthesis Essay Topics

1 Step on how to write an introduction for an argumentative essay

Find out more  Capstone Project Ideas for Nursing Leadership [50 Topics]

check out  130+ Good nursing capstone project ideas to Write About )

As you continue,  thestudycorp.com  has the top and most qualified writers to help with any of your assignments. All you need to do is  place an order

Start by filling this short order form order.studyinghq.com

And then follow the progressive flow. 

Having an issue, chat with us here

Cathy, CS. 

New Concept ? Let a subject expert write your paper for You​

Bob Cardens

Related Posts

  • A Comprehensive Guide to Crafting a Compelling Grant Proposal Cover Letter
  • Comprehensive guide on how to write a comparative essay
  • Term-Long Project Nursing Paper Example
  • Case Study on Moral Status
  • Applying the Concepts of Epidemiology and Nursing Research on Measles Nursing Paper Essay
  • Free Essays
  • Citation Generator
  • Topic Generator
  • Paraphrasing Tool
  • Conclusion Maker
  • Research Title Generator
  • Thesis Statement Generator
  • Summarizing Tool
  • How to Guides
  • Manage Orders
  • Business StudyingHq
  • Writing Service 
  • Discounts / Offers 

Study Hub: 

  • Studying Blog
  • Topic Ideas 
  • Business Studying 
  • Nursing Studying 
  • Literature and English Studying

Writing Tools  

  • Terms and Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Confidentiality Policy
  • Cookies Policy
  • Refund and Revision Policy

Our samples and other types of content are meant for research and reference purposes only. We are strongly against plagiarism and academic dishonesty. 

Contact Us:

📧 [email protected]

📞 +15512677917

2012-2024 © studyinghq.com. All rights reserved

  • Frontiers in Psychology
  • Performance Science
  • Research Topics

Innovation in Developmental Psychology, Education, Sports, and Arts: Advances in Research on Individuals and Groups - Volume II

Total Downloads

Total Views and Downloads

About this Research Topic

This Research Topic is the second volume of the Research Topic "Innovation in Developmental Psychology, Education, Sports, and Arts: Advances in Research on Individuals and Groups" Please see the first volume ...

Keywords : Growth and Performance in Education, Arts and Sports, Learning Strategies, Socio-emotional, Cognitive and Psychomotor Development, Education and Performance Throughout Life, Increase Performance Levels in Children, Adolescents and Adults

Important Note : All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

Topic Editors

Topic coordinators, recent articles, submission deadlines, participating journals.

Manuscripts can be submitted to this Research Topic via the following journals:

total views

  • Demographics

No records found

total views article views downloads topic views

Top countries

Top referring sites, about frontiers research topics.

With their unique mixes of varied contributions from Original Research to Review Articles, Research Topics unify the most influential researchers, the latest key findings and historical advances in a hot research area! Find out more on how to host your own Frontiers Research Topic or contribute to one as an author.

Official websites use .gov

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS

Logo for U.S. Department of Defense

Department of Defense Announces Fiscal Year 2024 University Research Funding Awards

The Department of Defense today announced $221 million in awards for basic defense-related research projects as part of the Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative (MURI) program. At an average award amount of $7.5 million over five years, these competitive grants will support 30 teams located at 73 U.S. academic institutions, subject to satisfactory research progress and the availability of funds.

"The science and engineering challenges we face today are highly complex and cross disciplinary," said Dr. Bindu Nair, director of the Basic Research Office in the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. "The MURI program acknowledges these complexities by supporting teams whose members have diverse sets of expertise as well as creative scientific approaches to tackling problems. 

"This cross-fertilization of ideas can accelerate research progress to enable more rapid scientific breakthroughs and hasten the transition of basic research funding to practical applications. The program is a cornerstone of DoD's basic research portfolio and a strong contributor to its legacy of scientific impact." 

Since its inception in 1985, the Department's MURI program has allowed teams of investigators from multiple disciplines to generate collective insights, facilitating the growth of cutting-edge technologies to address the Department's unique challenges. 

The highly competitive program, which complements the Department's single-investigator basic research grants, has made immense contributions to current and future military capabilities and produced numerous commercial sector applications. 

Notable MURI achievements include breakthroughs in cold-atom quantum methods with potential applications in quantum sensing and communication, as well as advances in pulsed magnetic field propagation and Doppler radar detection leading to new detection physics for landmines.

The Fiscal Year 2024 competition identified six topics that received an additional $1.5 million each over the five-year award term specifically to support the participation of historically Black colleges and universities and minority-serving institutions (HBCU/MIs). Seven proposals selected across the six topics will receive support for HBCU/MI participation on the MURI projects.

The Army Research Office, Air Force Office of Scientific Research, and Office of Naval Research solicited Fiscal Year 2024 proposals in 25 topic areas of strategic importance to the Department. After a merit-based review of 276 white papers, a panel of experts narrowed the pool to a subset of 102 full proposals, from which the 30 final awards were selected. The list of winning teams can be downloaded here .

About USD(R&E) 

The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (USD(R&E)) is the Chief Technology Officer of the Department of Defense. The USD(R&E) champions research, science, technology, engineering, and innovation to maintain the U.S. military's technological advantage. Learn more at www.cto.mil, follow us on Twitter @DoDCTO, or visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/ousdre .

Subscribe to Defense.gov Products

Choose which Defense.gov products you want delivered to your inbox.

Defense.gov

Helpful links.

  • Live Events
  • Today in DOD
  • For the Media
  • DOD Resources
  • DOD Social Media Policy
  • Help Center
  • DOD / Military Websites
  • Agency Financial Report
  • Value of Service
  • Taking Care of Our People
  • FY 2024 Defense Budget
  • National Defense Strategy

U.S. Department of Defense logo

The Department of Defense provides the military forces needed to deter war and ensure our nation's security.

IMAGES

  1. Best Ideas for PhD in Psychology Topics

    topics for a research proposal in psychology

  2. 🌱 Psychology project proposal example. All About Psychology Research

    topics for a research proposal in psychology

  3. Writing a Psychology PhD Research Proposal with Our Experts

    topics for a research proposal in psychology

  4. Writing a Psychology PhD Research Proposal with Our Experts

    topics for a research proposal in psychology

  5. How to Write a Successful Research Proposal

    topics for a research proposal in psychology

  6. Choose from 40 Research Proposal Templates & Examples. 100% Free

    topics for a research proposal in psychology

VIDEO

  1. 3 Psychology Tips Before Proposing to a Girl #psychology #proposal

  2. Art of writing a Research Proposal for Funded Project

  3. Selecting a Research Topic and Developing Research Proposal

  4. Importance of Research

  5. Proposal 101: What Is A Research Topic?

  6. Writing a Research Proposal (part 1) #research #thesis

COMMENTS

  1. 50+ Topics of Psychology Research for Your Student Paper

    50+ Topics of Psychology Research How to Find Psychology Research Topics for Your Student Paper By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Updated on March 13, 2023 Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD Are you searching for a great topic for your psychology paper?

  2. 61 Interesting Psychology Research Topics (2024)

    61 psychology topics to research in 2024 Need some extra help starting your psychology research project on the right foot? Explore our list of 61 cutting-edge, in-demand psychology research topics to use as a starting point for your research journey. Psychology research topics for university students

  3. Psychology Research Proposal Topics for Students by Tutoriage

    Psychology Research Proposal Topics for Students by Tutoriage Discovering Psychology Research Proposal Topics When you need to prepare a great psychology paper, choosing a good topic is crucial. It can be challenging to find a decent topic.

  4. 220+ Interesting Psychology Research Topics For Your Paper

    1. Good Psychology Research Topics 2. Social Psychology Research Topics 3. Developmental Psychology Research Topics 4. Cognitive Psychology Research Topics 5. Forensic Psychology Research Topics 6. Health Psychology Research Topics 7. History Psychology Research Topics 8. Experimental Psychology Research Topics 9.

  5. 55 Powerful Psychology Research Topics for a Superb Paper

    These proposal topics spark discussions and can lead to a deeper exploration of some complex issues in psychology. Let's explore several examples of such proposal themes. Ethical Concerns Surrounding of the Psychiatric Medications. Psychological and Ethical Implications of Conversion Therapy.

  6. How to Write a Psychology Research Proposal

    Research Proposal: A Proposed Study on the Mental Health Effects of Outdoor Experiences Written by the SUNY New Paltz Spring 2018 Evolutionary Psychology Class The evolutionary psychological...

  7. Research Topics In Psychology (+ Free Webinar)

    Where to get extra help How To Find A Research Topic In the video below, we explain how to find suitable research ideas (in psychology or any field), and how to then refine those into well-articulated potential topics for your dissertation or thesis.

  8. 60+ Psychology Research Topics 2024+

    1. Consider the guidelines. As you begin your search for a topic, it is important to consider the guidelines established by instructors. 2. Narrow your focus. Once you have decided on a general area of interest, do some preliminary reading in the area you have chosen to help you narrow down your topic.

  9. Writing your research proposal

    PhD How to apply for a PhD Writing your research proposal Writing your research proposal Guidance on what to include in your proposal and how to structure it When applying to study for a PhD or MPhil in the School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, you will typically need to send us an initial 500-word research proposal.

  10. PDF Your Psychology Project: The Essential Guide

    On reading this chapter you should: understand the importance of choosing a research topic that lends itself to a 'do-able' project; be able to evaluate potential topics; be able to formulate a valid research question (and hypothesis); understand the importance of creativity, and its relationship to innovation in formulating your research question;

  11. PDF RESEARCH PROPOSAL

    Simple strategies for evaluating potential research topics It is quite common for undergraduate psychology students to develop a list of potential research topics. The difficulty arises when students must choose a topic from their list, and develop a research proposal. Often students ask me if

  12. PDF Research Proposal Format Example

    1 Research Proposal Format Example Following is a general outline of the material that should be included in your project proposal. I. Title Page II. Introduction and Literature Review (Chapters 2 and 3) A. Identification of specific problem area (e.g., what is it, why it is important). B. Prevalence, scope of problem. C.

  13. Research Topics

    Cutting-edge research into the workings of the human mind. Our faculty conducts scientific research on topics that span across all areas of psychology. Some themes of research concentration are listed below. Click the topics to see the list of department faculty associated with each theme.

  14. 100 Best Psychology Topic Ideas for Research

    Can we develop working memory to retain greater long-term memory? Can a person that has been convicted of a felony charge change into a law-abiding citizen? How can cognitive therapy be used to help patients suffering from emotional disorders? Developmental Psychology Topics How do our perceptions of our experiences affect development in teenagers?

  15. 170+ Psychology Research Topics Ideas to Explore in 2024

    Psychology Research Topics - 170+ Ideas for Your Paper By: Nathan D. 17 min read Reviewed By: Jacklyn H. Published on: Feb 10, 2023 Choosing psychology research topics is not as easy as one might think. If you have to write a good research paper, choosing a good topic is the foremost step.

  16. Developmental Psychology Topics

    Which type of reinforcement works best for getting students to complete their homework: a tangible reward (such as a piece of candy) or social reinforcement (such as offering praise when homework is completed on time)? Developmental Psychology Topics on Adolescence What factors tend to influence the onset of depression in teens and young adults?

  17. Social Psychology Research Topics

    Social influence: What are the key social factors that influence our attitudes and behavior? What are group dynamics and how do we understand patterns of behavior in groups? Social relationships: What are the different types of social relationships? How do they develop and change over time?

  18. Psychology Research Proposal

    5+ Ways of Writing An Observation APA Outline Examples - PDF Examples How to Develop a Questionnaire 11+ Qualitative Research Templates FREE 11+ Short Proposal Examples 10+ Criminological Research Examples 10+ Prediction Research Templates 10+ Experimental Research Examples 10+ Research Ethics Examples 9+ Action Research Proposal Example

  19. How to Write a Research Proposal

    Research proposal examples. Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We've included a few for you below. Example research proposal #1: "A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management" Example research proposal #2: "Medical Students as Mediators of ...

  20. Psychology Research Proposal Topics In Different Branches

    Relevancy. To get the proposal approved, you need to show that your research in psychology has a practical value. It should be essential for you, for the committee, and for the society. Psychology is an excellent area for this with its numerous branches. You should focus on the benefits that the community can get from the researches. Innovation.

  21. Social Psychology Research Topics For College Students In 2024

    6 March 2024. Author. Dovetail Editorial Team. Reviewed by. Miroslav Damyanov. Social psychology is a constantly evolving field of study. It explores how our environment and other people influence our thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and goals. Social psychology uncovers how social interaction, perception, and influence impact individuals and groups.

  22. How to Write a Psychology Research Proposal

    Being able to write a solid research proposal demonstrates the following qualities: * An understanding of some theoretical concepts in the behavioral sciences. * The ability to organize one's ...

  23. 151+ Research Proposal Topics [Updated 2024]

    Self-reflection: Identify your personal interests, passions, and curiosities. Consider topics that resonate with you on a deep level. Academic and Professional Interests: Reflect on subjects that captivated you during coursework or work experience. Assess the relevance of these interests to your academic or career goals. Current Issues and Trends:

  24. Psychology Research Proposal Topics

    Psychology Research Proposal Topics 2. You can also check out : How Many Sentences Are in a Paragraph. Creative Narrative Essay Topics. Creative Synthesis Essay Topics. 1 Step on how to write an introduction for an argumentative essay. Find out more Capstone Project Ideas for Nursing Leadership [50 Topics]

  25. Innovation in Developmental Psychology, Education, Sports ...

    This Research Topic is the second volume of the Research Topic "Innovation in Developmental Psychology, Education, Sports, and Arts: Advances in Research on Individuals and Groups" Please see the first volume here. Due to the expansion of knowledge around us, we are "besieged" by a multitude of data that attracts our attention and pressures us to interact with it, motivating us to receive ...

  26. First-Year Writing in APA Style: Advice for Supporting Beginner

    Topics in Psychology. Explore how scientific research by psychologists can inform our professional lives, family and community relationships, emotional wellness, and more. ... Research and Practice. Tools for psychologists to do their jobs every day. Your Growth. Conducting Research; Faculty Development; Financial Wellness; Grants and Funding;

  27. What is Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing?

    5 min read • June, 01 2023. Evidence-based practice in nursing involves providing holistic, quality care based on the most up-to-date research and knowledge rather than traditional methods, advice from colleagues, or personal beliefs. Nurses can expand their knowledge and improve their clinical practice experience by collecting, processing ...

  28. APA Council of Representatives updates guidelines for psychological

    Washington — Recognizing both the challenges and rewards of aging, the American Psychological Association has adopted revised Guidelines for Psychological Practice with Older Adults.. The updated guidelines, which were approved Feb. 24 by APA's governing Council of Representatives, reflect APA's commitment to focus greater attention on the strengths and needs of older adults and ensure ...

  29. Department of Defense Announces Fiscal Year 2024 University Research

    The Army Research Office, Air Force Office of Scientific Research, and Office of Naval Research solicited Fiscal Year 2024 proposals in 25 topic areas of strategic importance to the Department.

  30. PDF DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY DoD 24.4 Small Business Innovation Research

    Proposals that do not comply with the requirements detailed in the DoD Program BAA, these Component Instructions, and the research objectives of the topic are considered non-conforming and therefore shall not be evaluated nor considered for award. PHASE I PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS The DSIP is the official portal for DoD SBIR/STTR proposal submission.