Psychology is a science in its own right, but it can also contribute to our understanding of the scientific process in general.

That is the conclusion of an article in the December issue of The Psychologist, the monthly magazine of the British Psychological Society. In it Gregory Feist takes a broad definition of science, from childhood inquisitiveness to formal inquiry, and considers ways the various subdisciplines of psychology can help us understand the scientific process and perhaps improve the pursuit of science itself.

He concludes: "Science is a driving force of modern society; if we are to understand this driving force and to foster greater interest in science and science careers in our talented young people, then we must continue to apply and develop a healthy and mature psychology of science."

Gregory Feist's article is available on the magazine's website on an open-access basis.

Elsewhere in the issue Professor Uta Frith, known for her pioneering work on autism and as a recent “Desert Island Discs” castaway, is interviewed about her career and Richard Brown looks at the psychology behind symptoms that medical science is unable to explain.

Finally, Tony Black, who was head of psychology at Broadmoor for many years, looks back at the special hospital’s history.