Social and behavioral science is often separated from the so-called hard sciences of biology, chemistry and physics, and many people wonder, “What is social and behavioral science?” These sciences are two separate areas of study that affect public health. Understanding their differences and similarities could help a person select the right major or minor of study in college.
Overlap Between Social and Behavioral Science
Both social and behavioral sciences work to better understand people through examining human activities. Both of these areas of study can relate to public health as behavior affects health issues and determinants of health. In the social sciences, those activities are evaluated and studied in a social context, such as a community. Activities are looked at in a group setting, rather than individual by individual. In the behavioral sciences, researchers look at decision making and social communications in people. The social communications area is where these two scientific niches overlap. Sociology and anthropology are two examples of sciences that overlap these two disciplines.
Where Social and Behavioral Sciences Differ
Behavioral and social sciences overlap, but also have some key differences. Behavioral science not only is the study of human behavior, but also looks at behaviors in animals. For example, researchers might investigate whether mice given a new medication have less fear when placed in an open container compared to mice given a placebo or an existing medication. In behavioral science, experiments can be done in a natural or controlled setting. Social science does not allow for controlled experimentation. Surveys and observational studies are commonly used in social science. Both can be used to examine health challenges, determinants of health and disease prevention to improve public health.
Examples of Social Sciences
This area of study examines human behavior in a wide range of situations and contexts. Each area of study focuses on a different part of human life or activities, explains Difference Between. Some areas include political science, economics, sociology, social psychology, demography, anthropology, history and bio-geography. Human activities are looked at in the context of the group setting. The social scientists do this by looking at social institutions, such as the educational system, public health system or the family. Social scientists also look at social organizations, such as unions. Culture also plays a role in this field.
Examples of Behavioral Science
Behavioral science looks at how people or animals make decisions and how they communicate. These sciences are empirical in nature, and the conditions can be controlled to a high extent. Psychology is a behavioral science. In human studies, experimenters control an environment. For example, a person might be given a task while loud music plays. The experimenter would examine if the person can do the task more quickly, more slowly or at the same speed as when the room is silent. Cognitive science is also a type of behavioral science. It is the interdisciplinary examination of the human mind and how it works. Social cognition and social psychology are also part of behavioral sciences. These look at how people make decisions in relation to their place in society or how they behave, communicate or interact in different situations or institutions. Ethology, semantic networks and social networks are also examples of behavioral sciences, and can affect public health.
What traits do people in Social and Behavioral Science work have
It seems that no matter the profession, some traits are universally beneficial and should be cultivated. These traits include communication skills, organization skills, and critical thinking. In addition to these, others include being an active listener, cultural competency, and patience. Depending on the specific work being done, other traits and skills may be added to this list.
Where do people work in the field Social and Behavioral Science
Those working in the public health arena may find themselves working in hospitals, public health departments, academia, or nonprofit organizations. Working in an office, or out in the field, this profession provides interesting and varied work.
What degrees do people have in Social and Behavioral Science work
People who work as behavioral or social scientists in a public health setting often hold bachelor’s degrees in areas of study including psychology, behavioral science, health education and promotion, public health or sociology. Coursework includes a focus on human behavior and includes topics such as mental health, sociology research, health promotion, and more.
Students looking to boost their employment opportunities should look to gain some experience prior to graduating. Volunteer work, internships in a hospital or clinic, working or volunteering in a non-profit may pave the way to employment. Seeking out a program that requires internships can help gain valuable experience and networking opportunities. Some programs help students get an entry-level job upon graduation.
Those wishing to advance their career options in Social and Behavioral Science often earn a master’s degree or doctoral degree in the discipline.
How is the job outlook and salary for this field
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupations in the “life, physical, and social science occupations” is expected to grow 7 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This increase is projected to result in about 147,900 openings each year from growth and replacement needs.
The median annual wage for these workers was $72,740 in May 2021, which was higher than the median annual salary for all occupations of $45,760. Salaries will vary in accordance with education, experience, location, and where one works. For example, those in academia likely will make less than those in the private sector.
What are the professional organizations in this field?
Professional organizations support the profession and industry through continuing education, networking, and certification opportunities. Check out these organizations to find out more about this field and see how it intertwines with public health.
Social Science Professional Associations & Organizations:
- American Anthropological Association (AAA) is the largest association for behavioral and social scientists in the field of anthropology, and includes over 10,000 members.
- American Psychological Association (APA) is the largest professional organization in the field of psychology in the United States.
- American Sociological Association (ASA) is dedicated to advancing the profession of sociology.
- Association for Behavioral Analysis International (ABAI) represents behavior and social scientists interested in philosophy, science, application, and teaching of behavior analysis.
- National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest professional organization for social workers in the world.
- The American Pubic Health Association (APHA) is the public health organization for public health professionals, and champions the health of all people and all communities.
Understanding the similarities and differences between social and behavioral sciences helps a person make an informed decision about what to study. This knowledge also provides the information that a person might need in order to plan their future career in this important field and how public health can be improved. Being able to answer, “What are social and behavioral sciences?” allows a college applicant or student to move forward with their educational and professional goals.
MPH Staff, Updated November 2022
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