Comparative Psychology

Among the different types of psychology Comparative psychology deals with the behavior patterns of animals. This also helps the psychologists to get an enhanced idea or in understanding the human psychology. The animal models are experimented to learn human emotions and their behaviors.

Comparative psychology studies the similarities and variations in behavioral organization in the midst of living beings, from bacteria to plants to humans. It pays particular attention to the psychological nature of human beings in comparison with other animals.

Comparative psychology mostly uses the comparative method to study the behavior of animals both qualitatively and quantitatively. This method involves in comparing the similarities and differences among species to gain a perceptive of the evolutionary relationships. It is also used to compare modern species with ancient species. They also compare the feeding, mating, and other activities of two rodents.

Some of the behavioural patterns that comparative psychologists study include the following:

• Communication: sharing of information among the animals
• Learning: gaining of knowledge or skills
• Migration: large groups of animals traveling from one place to another
• Orientation: animals position themselves in relation to light, heat, and other forces
• Reproductive behaviour: mating habits of animals and the way they care for their young ones
• Social behaviour: group activities such as the flocking of birds or the hunting strategies of the wolves

Comparative psychologists observe the behaviour of animals in their natural environment and also in controlled conditions e.g. in laboratories and in zoos. In both these surroundings, the researchers use methods which facilitate them to observe the behaviour while interfering as little as possible with the creatures' activities.

Methods to Observe the Behaviour of Animals: e.g. the psychologists could attach electronic devices to the animals. These devices send out signals pinpointing their locations or relay information on the animal's blood pressure, temperature, and other body functions.

In the laboratory, Comparative psychologists observe the behaviour of animals from behind by using one-way mirrors.

In the wild, Comparative psychologists watch the behaviour of animals from inside camouflaged enclosures. 

Comparative psychologists record the behaviour of animals on paper using the code symbols for various types of behaviour. They also film and tape-record certain activities.

Comparative psychology has vital applications in fields such as medicine, ecology, and animal training.

Questions:

• What will be the other methods used in comparative psychology?