Which Branch of Psychology study about extrasensory perception and psychokinetis?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (3):
The field of Social Psychology, while often focusing on observable behaviors, is fundamentally the study of how individual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by other people and by the social environment. This makes it the appropriate branch to study the *social and cultural dimensions* of extrasensory perception (ESP) and psychokinesis. Social psychologists are keenly interested in the formation, maintenance, and transmission of paranormal *beliefs* within groups and societies. This includes investigating phenomena such as how rumors about psychic events spread, the factors—like a desire for control or the influence of group dynamics—that lead people to believe in ESP or the power of the mind over matter, and how these beliefs impact a person's worldview or social identity. Therefore, a major psychological study of these topics focuses on their powerful presence as a social and cultural phenomenon.

The incorrect option is (1):
Parapsychology is the specialized field that *directly* investigates the existence and nature of extrasensory perception (telepathy, clairvoyance, etc.) and psychokinesis. However, because its subject matter deals with phenomena that fall outside conventional scientific understanding and cannot be consistently replicated, it is often viewed as a controversial and non-mainstream sub-discipline. Since the main question asks about a branch of Psychology that can study the accepted prevalence and impact of these concepts, Parapsychology is not the optimal choice within the recognized mainstream academic curriculum. Its primary focus is on proving the reality of the phenomena rather than analyzing the broader psychological context of belief systems.

The incorrect option is (2):
Clinical Psychology is the branch of psychology dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia. This field uses therapeutic methods like psychotherapy and psychological assessment to promote mental health and well-being. It does not primarily focus on the scientific investigation of ESP or psychokinesis as normal or widespread human capabilities in a research context. While a clinical psychologist might work with a patient who *believes* they have these powers, the professional focus would be on the mental health implications of that belief, not on validating the paranormal phenomenon itself.

The incorrect option is (4):
Applied Psychology is a broad field that uses established psychological principles and research findings to solve practical problems in various non-clinical settings. This includes major sub-fields like Industrial/Organizational Psychology (improving workplace efficiency), Educational Psychology (optimizing learning), and Sports Psychology (enhancing athletic performance). Its application is centered on observable, measurable human behavior and improving function in real-world scenarios. Extrasensory perception and psychokinesis do not have a standard, accepted, or defined practical application within these standard, evidence-based fields of Applied Psychology, making it an unsuitable answer.