Scientific and Social Emphasis on World Psychologists Day, May 10
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eliz Volkan, Head of the Department of Psychology at Cyprus International University, stated in her remarks on the occasion of World Psychologists Day on May 10 that psychology is a multidimensional discipline that scientifically examines human behavior, mental processes, and brain functioning through scientific methods. Volkan noted that psychology today is not limited solely to clinical practice; rather, it continues to develop through interaction with many fields such as neuroscience, cognitive sciences, education, healthcare, and artificial intelligence.
Drawing attention to recent advances in neuroscience, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eliz Volkan emphasized that processes such as attention, memory, decision-making, emotional regulation, and learning can now be examined in much greater detail in terms of their neural foundations. She stated that brain imaging techniques, neuropsychological assessments, and cognitive research have made significant contributions to understanding the mechanisms underlying human behavior and have accelerated the development of psychological science.
Volkan also highlighted that digitalization, economic uncertainties, disasters, and social changes brought about by modern life have made psychological resilience increasingly important. She stated that psychologists are among the key professionals contributing to public health through research, assessment, counseling, and education. According to Volkan, psychological well-being is not merely defined as the absence of mental disorders; it is also regarded as a fundamental factor supporting an individual’s life satisfaction, productivity, well-being, and social functioning.
In her statement, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eliz Volkan said: “Psychologists contribute to improving individuals’ quality of life through scientifically grounded practices and support social resilience through preventive mental health services. Clearly defining scientific standards, ethical principles, and professional competencies is of great importance for the reliability of psychological services.”
Volkan further stated that clinical psychology is one of the most visible fields of application within psychology and requires a high level of expertise, ethical responsibility, and scientific competence. She emphasized that practitioners must possess the necessary academic education, clinical supervision, and professional qualifications in order to provide reliable and effective psychological support services. Volkan also noted that the absence of a comprehensive legal regulation regarding the psychology profession in Northern Cyprus raises certain concerns in terms of professional boundaries and supervisory processes.
Concluding her remarks, Volkan stated that World Psychologists Day on May 10 serves as an important awareness day by reminding society that psychology is a strong academic discipline dedicated to understanding human beings and by emphasizing the importance of scientific, ethical, and qualified psychological services. She also celebrated the day of all psychologists.