Department of Psychology
Research Focus
Department of Psychology
The department of Psychology consists of 16 research units. All of these contribute to the study programs: Bachelor of Science (Major), Bachelor of Science (Minor) and Master of Science. in Psychology (Major). Graduate training for Doctoral Candidates is also provided by the research units. At the Department two research foci can be identified:
Life Perspectives: Opportunities and Adversities (Life Chances)
The research focus is on the impact of intrinsic and environmental factors including their subjective representations on the lives of individuals as well as groups. The development within a life course depends on the perception, appraisal and handling of (social) life circumstances as well as coping with or profiting from these. Among others, we investigate processes of personality and identity development, learning, psychological as well as social (co-)regulation as well as coping with disability and (severe) illness. We cooperate with the faculty of Sociology, Public Health, Economy, and Educational Science.
Intelligent Interactive Systems (IIS)
Here, we investigate the interaction between natural and artificial cognitive systems in neurotypical and non-neurotypical people. We study how artificial systems such as computer-based tutoring systems or robots cab be used to improve human learning, advance human creativity, facilitate the interaction between humans and machines in industry or aid people with physical, cognitive or mental disabilities to manage their everyday lives. Our expertise in these areas contributes to the university’s focus areas AI*IM, FAITH and PINC. Traditionally, we also have close collaborations with the Center for Cognitive Interaction Technology (CITEC) and the Bethel foundation. Next to translational approaches, basic research on human information processing, from attention to memory and learning, language processes, emotion, and motor functions is key for this research area.