MEDICINE is about quantifying life but psychology is about quality of life.
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That was the message for Warrnambool College psychology students yesterday from the director of the Bronowski Institute and head of neurosciences Greg Willis.
The Kyneton-based psychologist said some students didn’t realise how closely psychology and medicine were related.
“Psychology is one of the newer sciences, not including environmental science,” he said.
“Psychology and medicine are closely related.”
Part of Dr Willis’ work and research has been treating people with Parkinson’s disease. He said by using bright light treatment the patient’s retinal chemistry is altered by the light.
Dr Willis said the treatment had reduced depression and insomnia in patients and slowed down progressive deterioration.
“Their quality of life improves,” he said.
“It’s an example to students of the variety of work.
“Psychology in high school is quite new and some probably don’t understand the link to biological science.
“There are lots of opportunities and work though.”
Career practitioner at Warrnambool College Peter Bollard said a lot of students think psychology is about talking to people about their problems.
“Obviously the area where Greg specialises in they don’t know much about,” he said.
“This is a great rewarding career. We want them to see the link between psychology and medicine and psychology and biology. Most kids wouldn’t make that link.”