Critical thinking refers to formation of informed judgments that are logically conceptualized. In critical thinking a researcher questions conclusions and premises in psychological science, rather than simply accepting them. Students who apply critical thinking in psychological science develop a deep comprehension of competencies and concepts required through analysis, explanation and restructuring of thinking leading to a reasoned conclusion (Stafford’s, 2014). Critical thinking is important in psychological science since the methodology improves expression of ideas and enhances understanding of what is true.
Critical thinking is vital in psychological science as it enables restructuring of thinking, evaluation, explanation and analysis of the thought process ultimately averting the risk of acting on or embracing a skewed argument. One is able to apply scientific skepticism within the framework of critical thinking. Analysis and evaluation of information through critical thinking leads to a well justified conclusion or answer. Critical thinking teaches the art of suspending a judgment through intellectual empathy and humility leading to an informed judgment (Stafford’s, 2014). Critical thinking is therefore important in psychological science as it enables people to make decisions in a more reflective way.
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Critical thinking helps students to appreciate and develop a liking for scientific explanations of behaviour in psychological science. Learners acquire new knowledge founded on the content of psychology and receive a deeper comprehension of why psychology is categorized into theories, laws, concepts and principles. Critical thinking imparts theoretical skills where learners master the science of applying concepts appropriately in psychological science (Halonen’s, 1996). For example, upon introduction of tenets of reinforcement, students can be asked to make up theories that embody the principles. Learners in psychological science are able to relate and apply knowledge through critical thinking.
Critical thinking encourages practice by teaching interpretation of behaviour and accurate description. Reasoned judgment is crucial in enabling learners distinguish what they observe from the inferences drawn. According to Dewey’s (2007), the art is important in refining students’ observational dexterities. Students recognize that inferences do vary and that interpretation can be biased hence learn to be less confident of their personal conclusions. Learners eventually acquire a succinct understating of scientific procedures, legitimate forms of evidence and control techniques that shields them from falling victims to off-base claims about behavior.
Critical thinking supports development of intellectual tools in psychological science. This protects individuals from the vulnerability of relying on false science or claims. Through critical thinking one is able to alienate absurd ideas from those that are scientific truths. The art is crucial in imparting the knowhow to separate valuable ideas from useless ones. The skill is important in cultivating the specialty of open-mindedness, staying open to new ideas and generating fresh alternatives (Crash Course’s, 2014). Critical thinking is therefore crucial in evaluation of evidence, examination of assumptions and avoidance of oversimplifications.
Conclusively, critical thinking builds the skill of evaluating claims in psychological science. Students who have learned the art of critical thinking develop the ability to test theories and data and distinguishing good information from illogical one. Tenets of critical thinking are therefore crucial and need to be taught to learners to support understanding of psychological since.
References
Crash Course’s (2014) YouTube, “ Psychological Research .
Dewey’s (2007) chapter, “ Critical Thinking [in Psychology]
Halonen’s (1996) article, “ On Critical Thinking [in Psychology
Stafford’s (2014) article, “ What It Means to Be Critical [about Psychological Research] ,”
