Monday 3 December 2012

Psychology Names

I am currently at university studying for a degree in Psychology with Criminology. Psychology, the science of mind and behaviour, is an enthralling discipline to study, so I thought it'd be fun to look at a few famous psychologist's names.

GIRLS
Mary - of Hebrew origin and means 'bitter'. Whilst the name Mary doesn't have the best meaning, it is still seen as a timeless, elegant name. It's also great for Christian parents, as there are a total of six Mary's in the Bible!
The psychologist: Mary Ainsworth is best known for her research into child development and the theory of attachment.
Mamie - a variant of Mary or Margaret, which means 'pearl'. A very cute, unique name that I think will fit a girl of any age.
The psychologist: Mamie Phipps Clark is best known for her research into child development and self-concept among minorities. She was the first black woman to graduate from Columbia University.
Anna - a Greek or Latin version of 'Hannah', which means 'grace'. A simple yet pretty name.
The psychologist: Anna Freud is best known for founding child psychoanalysis and her research into defense mechanisms. And yes, she is Sigmund Freud's daughter!
Karen - the Danish variation of 'Katherine', which means 'pure'. A slightly outdated name that may jump back into the limelight because of it's sweet, traditional vibe.
The psychologist: Karen Horney is best known for her theories of neurosis, feminine psychology and self psychology. She was a neo-Freudian but also challenged many of Freud's ideas, making her an admirable, independent woman!
Melanie - of Greek origin and means 'black, dark'. Has the cool nickname 'Mel' and conjures up the image of a very playful girl.
The psychologist: Melanie Klein is best known for developing the technique known as 'play therapy'.
Sabina - of Latin origin and means 'Sabine'. Not as popular and well-known as 'Sabrina', but an interesting, more unique twist.
The psychologist: Sabina Spielrein is best known for her contribution to the development of psychoanalysis.

BOYS
Alfred - of English origin and means 'wise counsellor'. A great name as it has the lovely nickname possibilities of 'Alfie' and 'Fred' or 'Freddie'.
The psychologist: Alfred Adler is best known for developing individual psychology.
Gordon - of Scottish origin and means 'great hill'. A hardly used strong, masculine name.
The psychologist: Gordon Allport is best known as one of the founding figures of personality psychology.
Solomon - of Hebrew origin and means 'peace'. A name that is slowing becoming more popular because of it's old-fashioned flair.
The psychologist: Solomon Asch is a social psychologist best known for his research into conformity.
Wilhelm - the German variation of 'William', which means 'resolute protection'. Pronounced 'vil-helm' but could still have the popular 'Will' nickname.
The psychologist: Wilhelm Wundt is best known for establishing the very first experimental psychology laboratory.
Clark - of English origin and means 'scribe, secretary, cleric, scholar, clerk'. A short but sweet, fashionable name.
The psychologist: Clark Hull was best known for his major role in behaviourism.
Sigmund - of German origin and means 'victorious protection'. I couldn't not include this one! Would possibly be difficult for a child to pull off, but if you're passionate about psychology, Sigmund in the middle spot would be fine.
The psychologist: Sigmund Freud is the best known psychological figure in history, but also one of the most controversial! He was the founder of the school of thought known as psychoanalysis.

So, if you want your child be a genius, name them one of the above! (I joke!) What do you think of these perhaps old-fashioned yet interesting names?

Thanks for reading!

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