For example, Psychology examines how our abilities change with age, and what might underlie abnormal behaviour. It investigates how we process and store information using our senses and memory, and how our experiences shape our behaviour.

Psychologists also study how behaviour relates to the functioning of the brain, and why things such as drugs, hormone levels and lack of sleep can influence the way we behave. Applied psychologists use this knowledge to address problems as diverse as sleep disorders, industrial relations, phobias, drug rehabilitation, aircraft safety and hyperactivity.