[AnarchyAo]

I am a 17 year older and am a Senior in High School. I typically have gotten bad grades all through school D's and F's to tell you the truth. I don't think it is the end of the world for me though, I've figured out a lot of stuff about myself and have been recovering from anti social behavior by talking myself out of it. I am very good at troubleshooting Windows OS and am knowledgable on general computer questions + hardware issues.

But, I have always been inside my head all the time. I really enjoy learning about people, because in return I learn a little bit more about myself. The way people think, the way they act, why they act like this, and why they think the way they do interests me. My favorite thing is giving advice to friends that are having issues, they always say I'm a big help. I understand people, and I always want to learn more.

I have recently found out that maybe my hobby should be my career path. Most people my age are out drinking and partying and I used to waste time also.. Being on the computer all the time addicted to Massively Multiplayer Online Roleplaying Games (MMORPG). I have talked my way out of it though, and am a very different person today. I think about all the time I have wasted doing nothing.. and my grades in high school have suffered as well.

I have decided it's time for me to do something productive. I figure I should start reading up on different areas of psychology and really narrow down what I personally prefer. I am looking for suggestions on top rated best selling and good reads on psychology. Specifically, on jobs you can get by going into psychology. I know I'm seeming very general here, but I am still a novice at this. I just need something that can further explain to me psychology career paths, what these jobs are, and what is involved in them on a day to day basis.

Also, I am looking for books on general psychology that explain in somewhat simple terms what it's all about, and other basics.. I'm just looking for something I can dive into and go from there.

Any help would be appreciated, I'm looking forward to your responses.

[kimmydawn]

hi and welcome! it sounds like you have much insight.

i can't help you with the books question. i can tell you that my daughter just graduated with her BA in psych and can do very little with it in the field. so, if you plan on majoring in psych in college, plan on a master's degree.

again, welcome and much luck to you!

kd

[TgrsPurr]

Hello AnarchyAo, Glad you found us here. Welcome.

I could relate to a lot of what you had to say about yourself. I know exactly what you mean when you say you live inside your head. We are very cerebral people. I, too, tend to be anti-social. Although I'm capable of talking to just about everyone about just about anything. I find ppl fascinating and I enjoy observing human behavior. I use to go to airports to just sit and watch ppl. Strange, I know. I think strange might be my middle name, lol.

As for your question, my advice is to go a place like Barnes and Noble and start looking through books in the psychology section. They have a great selection and you can sit and read and enjoy a beverage at the same time. Bookstores for me a little slice of heaven. You can start with the general psych books and when you find something interesting you can go to the books written solely about that field of psych.

Also, it sounds to me like Sociology might be a field your interested too. It's worth looking into.

Again, welcome aboard. You can mostly find me in the bi-polar forum. Come on by.
TgrsPurr.

welcome, i'm afraid i can't help you but i am glad that you're here. you'll find some pretty cool people here. pat

Welcome. You'll find that there are a ton of gool folks here. It's great to meet you.

Ry

[SS8282]

Welcome! It sounds like you've 'grown up' a lot. You write quite well too. Kudos for you.

Getting a BA in psych will not really get you anywhere, unless you go further your education, such as taking a masters or more. Also, having a psych degree under your belt will be advantageous if you want to go into teaching, social work, counselling, or human resources.

Whatever you decide,

[CedarS]

You express yourself very clearly, you write well, and you have a keen sense of what intrigues you. Yer doin' better than many of we older types. *Grin*

I suggest you cultivate your local public library, browse lots, ask the reference librarian for suggestions. They especially can point out the occupational guides, ones that detail all the various jobs in the psychology and sociology field.

You could also make an appointment to talk to a guidance counselor type at the local community college. You can find out also what type of degree programs the community and 4 year colleges/universities offer, what the current trends are.

Read lots, follow your instincts, talk to lots of folks, keep your own counsel and make your own decisions, you'll do grand.

And congrats on getting away from gaming, I've been there and done that, I can certainly relate.

One place to check: http://psychology.about.com/library/.../aa012001a.htm

Worth roaming round the entire site, info on jobs, categories, opportunities, outlook, and more.

Sarah

[jmo531]

Hello and Welcome to PC. This is a wonderful site for love and support. Glad you found us.