Writing in psychology

Psychologists write for various audiences and with various purposes in mind. They frequently publish articles about their research for their colleagues, or they present their work at professional conferences. They write proposals to convince funding agencies to award grants for their research. If they teach, psychologists also write lectures.

Sometimes psychologists write to influence the opinions held by the public or by decision makers in government, lending their expertise to discussions on such issues as the effects of racism, the challenges of aging, or children’s mental health. For these readers, psychologists may write analyses for newspaper and magazine op-ed pages as well as policy recommendations and advocacy statements.

Writing for your audience in psychology

Psychologists’ diverse audiences include researchers, psychotherapists, teachers, students, clients, and sometimes members of the government or business community and the general public. Researchers or clinical psychologists may read to find out the results of an experiment, the analysis of new data, or information supporting or critiquing a theory. This information may be useful to readers in developing new research projects or providing services to their clients.

Students read to learn about major concepts in the field. Researchers, teachers, and students expect data and findings to be communicated thoroughly in words and in graphics such as diagrams, tables, charts, and graphs. People working in government or academic settings may need information and support for decisions about funding proposed research projects.

In all cases, your readers will expect your writing to be completely objective and to present information as clearly as possible. When you are writing in psychology, you should make thorough use of others’ research in the field to demonstrate your credibility. Readers are interested more in empirical data that can be presented quantitatively than in statements from experts. Qualitative information in the form of direct observations and statements from research subjects can help readers understand your conclusions or recommendations.

Your readers will appreciate your precise use of words and a scientific stance with an objective tone. When writing for clients of psychiatric or psychotherapy services, use straightforward language that respects the clients and their right to understand their conditions and needs. Such clients will also expect confidentiality and respect for diversity.

Related topics:

Forms of writing in psychology

Questions psychologists ask

Kinds of evidence psychologists use

Writing conventions in psychology

APA system for citation in psychology writing

Sample student paper: Literature review