Everyday Psychology E-Book

AI (Artificial intelligence)

• Herausgeber: gopal kolekar
• Kategorie: Geisteswissenschaft
• Sprache: Englisch

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024

Beschreibung

The author, Gopal R. Kolekar, was born in a village named Kangrali B.K. in India. He is certified with Mech. Eng. And his date of birth is 14 August 1972.

Leseprobe

© All Rights Reserved

Everyday Psychology

Author: Dr. Gopal Rayappa Kolekar

A Book in English.

Under the Indian Copyright Act, all rights of the contents of this book are reserved with the author, Dr. Gopal Rayappa Kolekar. No part of this book, including the name, title, design, or inside matter or photographs, may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means, in whole or in part, in any language. Breach of any of these conditions is liable to legal action.

All disputes are subject to the jurisdiction of Bangalore courts.

First Edition: November 2024

Published by:

Gopal Rayappa Kolekar

Lane: Patil Galli, Post: Kangrali B.K.

Taluka and District: Belagavi: 590 010

State: Karnataka, India.

Email: [email protected]

Contents

Chapter 1 Psychology of Pregnancy

Chapter 2 Psychology of Childhood

Chapter 3 Psychology of Adolescents

Chapter 4 Psychology of Work

Chapter 5 Psychology of Money

Chapter 6 Psychology of/for Marriage and Relationships

Chapter 7 Psychology of Parents

Chapter 8 Psychology for/of forty plus

Chapter 9 Psychology of/of an Old Age (Sixty Plus)

Chapter 10 Psychology for/of a Good Life

Conclusion

Dedication

!!!***!!!

This book is dedicated to the human beings.

AN INTRODUCTION TO Dr. GOPAL KOLEKAR

- a multi-faceted author

Dr. Gopal Rayappa Kolekar, born on August 14, 1972, in the quaint village of Kangrali B.K. in Belagavi, Karnataka, India, is a distinguished author and Mechanical Engineer. His academic journey began in his hometown, where he completed his Primary and High School education. Driven by a passion for engineering, he graduated as a Mechanical Engineer from a college in Belagavi.

Despite English being a foreign language, Dr. Kolekar recognizes its significance in scientific discourse. His literary contributions include six books in English, each delving into diverse realms of knowledge and societal concerns. Notably, he explores the educational landscape in countries like India, contemplating the structure and reforms required in the face of contemporary challenges.

In his works, Dr. Kolekar extends beyond conventional themes. Amidst the backdrop of global issues such as mass terrorism and pervasive hatred leading to endless wars, he articulates his views on the principles that should govern contemporary governance. According to him, a liberal approach, inspired by Christ's message, should guide the central power.

One of his notable publications, “English for Foreign Students," caters to adults who have completed their primary education in their regional language but seek to acquire English proficiency for day-to-day activities. This practical focus aligns with the recognition of English as a vital tool for various professional and personal endeavors.

Dr. Kolekar's literary repertoire includes insightful works such as “Secrets from Gopal,” where he unveils scientific mysteries. “The World in 2018,” his fifth book, serves as a reflection on the events of that year and proposes strategies for addressing contemporary challenges. Additionally, his sixth book, “In-Diadem World," explores political and social issues at the onset of the 21st century. His seventh book is titled “English Effects on India” and this is his eighth book titled First Love. This book is about - the profound and universal phenomenon of love, focusing particularly on the challenges and complexities of first love. Drawing from personal experience and scientific insights, the author delves into the intricate dynamics of romantic relationships and the lasting impact of first love on individuals' lives. Through heartfelt reflection and practical advice, the author encourages readers to navigate the rollercoaster of emotions associated with first love with grace and resilience.

With a blend of scientific analysis and compassionate wisdom, the book offers guidance on how to cope with the intensity of first love and emerge stronger and wiser. It serves as a compassionate companion for those grappling with the complexities of love, providing valuable insights and support for navigating the journey of first love with courage and self-awareness. The Ninth Book is titled 21st Century’s Mahabharatha, which mentions ongoing wars at the beginning of the 21st century. This is his tenth book.

PREFACE

Common psychology refers to the study of human behaviour and mental processes, focusing on aspects that affect individuals in everyday life. It includes understanding how people think, feel, and behave in various situations, and how these behaviours are influenced by biological, social, and environmental factors. Psychology addresses common experiences such as learning, memory, emotions, motivation, and feeling, helping us better understand how we interact with the world around us. It also explores how psychological factors shape the way people react to stress, relationships, and life challenges, providing insights into common struggles and offering strategies for coping and improving mental well-being.

One key area of common psychology is the study of cognition, which includes processes like attention, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making. Our ability to process information and make decisions is essential in daily life, from choosing what to eat to making career decisions. Cognitive psychology examines how we get knowledge, how our brains store and retrieve information, and why we sometimes make irrational decisions. Understanding these cognitive processes can help individuals improve their memory, think more critically, and make better choices in both personal and professional contexts.

Emotions are another critical part of common psychology. How people experience and regulate their emotions influences their relationships, job performance, and overall well-being. Psychological research on emotions explores how feelings like happiness, sadness, fear and anger arise, how they affect behaviour, and how people can manage them. For instance, emotional intelligence, or the ability to understand and manage one’s own emotions and empathise with others, plays a significant role in forming healthy relationships and supporting emotional health.

Social psychology, which studies how individuals are influenced by others, is also a significant aspect of common psychology. It focuses on understanding how social interactions, group dynamics, and societal norms shape behaviour. This field explores topics such as conformity, prejudice, group decision-making, and social influence, helping to explain why people often behave differently in groups or how they are influenced by others. Understanding these dynamics can improve interpersonal relationships, promote empathy, and foster more inclusive environments in both personal and professional settings.

Another critical area is the study of motivation, which delves into what drives people to act in particular ways. Whether it is pursuing career goals, supporting relationships, or engaging in personal growth, motivation is a powerful force that guides human behaviour. Psychologists explore intrinsic motivation (driven by personal satisfaction or interest) and extrinsic motivation (driven by external rewards) to understand why individuals pursue certain goals. This knowledge can help people tap into their intrinsic motivation, overcome procrastination, and achieve long-term satisfaction in life.

Lastly, mental health and well-being are central themes in common psychology. Issues like anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma are experienced by many individuals, making the study of mental health a vital aspect of psychological research. By understanding the factors that contribute to mental health problems, as well as the therapeutic approaches available, psychology offers valuable tools for managing and overcoming mental health challenges. It emphasises the importance of self-care, therapy, and building resilience, aiming to improve individuals’ emotional and psychological well-being.

In summary, common psychology provides a framework for understanding the everyday experiences that shape human behaviour and mental processes. By studying cognition, emotions, motivation, social interactions, and mental health, psychology helps individuals navigate the complexities of life and achieve greater emotional and psychological well-being. Its insights are applicable across various aspects of life, from personal development to improving relationships and coping with challenges.

There are several fundamental concepts that can guide individuals toward a fulfilling and meaningful life. One of the most important is the idea of self-awareness. Understanding oneself — one’s values, desires, strengths, weaknesses, and emotions — is the foundation for making informed decisions and navigating life’s challenges. When individuals are self-aware, they are better equipped to align their actions with their true selves, making choices that reflect their authentic needs and desires. This clarity allows for personal growth and helps to set up a sense of purpose and direction in life.

Another essential concept is resilience, the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to adversity. Life inevitably presents challenges, and resilience enables people to navigate difficulties without being overwhelmed. It involves cultivating a positive mindset, supporting hope in tough situations, and developing coping strategies to handle stress and failure. Resilience does not mean avoiding hardships but rather embracing them as opportunities for growth, learning how to recover from disappointments, and continuing to move forward.

Empathy is also a vital concept to follow in life. Understanding and sharing the feelings of others can foster deeper connections and strengthen relationships, whether personal or professional. Empathy helps individuals navigate social interactions with compassion, offering support and kindness to those around them. It not only builds a sense of community but also enhances one’s emotional intelligence, making it easier to resolve conflicts and support healthy relationships. Living with empathy allows one to contribute positively to society and foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

The principle of gratitude is another concept that plays a significant role in promoting happiness and well-being. Practicing gratitude involves recognising and appreciating the positive aspects of life, even during challenging times. Regularly reflecting on what one is thankful for can shift focus away from what is lacking and increase overall life satisfaction. Gratitude fosters a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity, encouraging individuals to celebrate small victories, cultivate optimism, and nurture their sense of contentment.

Closely related to gratitude is the idea of mindfulness, the practice of being fully present in the moment. Mindfulness encourages individuals to focus on the here and now rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. It enhances emotional regulation and helps reduce stress, anxiety, and negative thinking patterns. By living mindfully, people can experience life more fully, savouring experiences, and appreciating the present, which contributes to overall well-being and peace of mind.

Integrity is a fundamental concept for supporting a life of authenticity and trust. Living with integrity means acting in ways that are consistent with one’s values, supporting honesty, and doing what is right even when no one is watching. Integrity builds trust in relationships and fosters a sense of inner peace, as individuals can feel secure in knowing they are true to themselves. It is the cornerstone of ethical behaviour and contributes to personal and professional respect, forming the foundation for long-lasting success.

Lastly, the idea of continuous growth is crucial for living a fulfilling life. This involves the ongoing process of self-improvement and learning, whether through education, self-reflection, or developing new skills. Life is constantly changing, and individuals who embrace growth are better equipped to adapt and thrive in various circumstances. Continuous growth encourages curiosity, challenges individuals to step outside their comfort zones, and fosters a sense of achievement as they evolve personally and professionally.

In sum, concepts such as self-awareness, resilience, empathy, gratitude, mindfulness, integrity, and continuous growth are essential for leading a fulfilling and meaningful life. These principles provide a powerful foundation for making thoughtful decisions, building positive relationships, and supporting well-being, helping individuals live with purpose and satisfaction.

Gopal Rayappa Kolekar

Bangalore

Date: 01 Nov 2024

Chapter 1Psychology of Pregnancy

Pregnancy is considered as one of the most beautiful blessings to a woman. The duration of pregnancy for humans lasts for about 280 days or 40 weeks. When a woman finds out that she is expecting, doctors assume 40 weeks and give a tentative delivery date.

These 40 weeks become like a roller coaster for a woman. She goes through immense hormonal imbalances. At times, she herself cannot control her emotions. She may feel anxious about pregnancy or about the baby. The mother may also feel overwhelmed with the new roles and responsibilities about to arrive in her life.

We must also consider that; sleep patterns change for the brand parents when the baby is born. Parents must adjust their sleeping hours based on baby’s sleeping time. Paediatricians suggest that a newborn baby must sleep somewhere between 12 — 16 hours in a day. They do not understand the difference between day and night. Since, babies drink milk often, their sleep patterns keep varying.

Irrespective of religion and ethnicity, pregnancy has always been considered as a blessing because a woman’s life is completely changed. Her heart grows bigger, she gets into her optimum feminine energy. Women are known for their nurturing qualities. Motherhood also signifies nurturing, loving, and caring for her family.

In these modern times, many women are not embracing motherhood as they do not want an extra set of responsibilities. Some women cannot connect deeply for children. Some women are career oriented and love to travel frequently for work or as a favourite activity. That is why, they feel traveling with children is a tough job.

Nowadays, some women are scared to adopt this huge change in their life when it comes to motherhood. Over the decades, pregnancy complications also rose like anything. The number of women embracing motherhood in their early or mid 20s are reducing. Women are more comfortable embracing motherhood in their early 30s. Some are also taking up pregnancy in their late 30s.

In this book, we will refer trimesters for the pregnancy:

• First trimester — conception to 12 weeks

• Second trimester — 13 to 27 weeks

• Third trimester — 28 to 40 weeks

Symptoms of Pregnancy

Every woman’s body is unique, and their symptoms can be unique too. But there are a few common symptoms which we can learn here. Missing the menstruation date is the first and foremost symptom which shows pregnancy. As the sperm and egg comes together and takes the shape of a zygote, it blocks the menstruation.

The amount of blood which comes out every month supports the mother to grow the baby inside her womb for the next 40 weeks. It comes back to normal when the pregnancy is over. The bleeding stays for days to 2 weeks right after delivery of the baby.

Other common symptoms of pregnancy are fatigue, frequent urination, backache, breast changes, and nausea. This nausea appears in the morning, that is why it is called as morning sickness. Some women may nauseate all day long as well. Again, for some women this nausea stays only during the first trimester of the pregnancy, and it reduces as the pregnancy advances.

Biological changes in girls due to pregnancy

Pregnancy is a whole new journey for women. They do not only breathe for themselves, but they also breathe for the baby too. They do not eat for themselves alone. Their diet provides utmost nutrition to the unborn baby. It is suggested to pregnant women to eat frequently. In the olden days, elders used to say that a pregnant woman should eat three times more than their normal portion.

When a woman is expecting, her partner and the family must remember that her body is overworking. So, she needs extra care and support. Medically speaking, the size of heart and lungs in women are smaller than men. During pregnancy, her heart and lungs are working for both.

A healthy heart of a woman beats 78 to 82 per minute. During pregnancy, this increases to 80 to 90 beats per minute because her heart is pumping more blood for herself and the baby.

Many women complain about high blood pressure during their pregnancy. As the heart is over pumping blood, it causes extra stress on her overall body. High blood pressure may also affect the placenta to keep the baby safe inside the womb. This functional issue with the placenta may not provide all the necessary nutrition to the baby. These things are so crucial, that every woman needs to be mindful throughout her pregnancy journey.

Diaphragm and chest muscles increase as the pregnancy advances with time. That is why the breathing patterns change with the trimesters. The large flat muscle inside the chest increases in size and shifts slightly above than the usual. That is how the space for the growing baby takes place and the function of the lungs stay intact. Many women complain of breathing issues during their second and third trimester. At times, they are kept on high-flow oxygen at hospital.

Thoughts generated during pregnancy

As the pregnancy affects overall physical health, mental health also gets equally affected. Mental health does not get a free pass. A little bit of forgetfulness and unmindfulness is quite common during pregnancy. Hormonal imbalances do not allow women to think straight at this point. Critical thinking and decision making may get some hiccups too. This phase is called pregnancy brain fog.

They may also see a shift in their overall attitude. Subconsciously, they may choose less exciting or less adventurous activities to keep their body and mind safe. Too much of excitement will raise the blood pressure.

For some women, the physical change may bring a sense of anxiety and depression. The cause of depression could be several reasons. The change in lifestyle and daily activities can also be considered as the root cause of depression in pregnant girls. Of course, they cannot do the activities they used to do earlier. They need to be more careful when they are outside home.

Many people still are not comfortable talking postpartum depression. It is a real thing. Millions of Indians still feel that this is man-made. But it is a real thing and medical science proved it through various scientific studies. Insomnia, loss of appetite, headache, frequent tears, irritability, not feeling the connection with the baby are some of the common symptoms of postpartum depression. Medical attention and support from the family are highly suggested for such women.

The root cause of anxiety during pregnancy is the new change in their life. Pregnancy and delivering the baby can be very overwhelming. Learning everything about the new baby, taking care of the baby and understanding what he/she needs can be a challenge in the first few days. Women crave for the support from their mothers or mothers-in-law because they can guide them to be better mothers. The older generation’s experience can be a real game changer for the young mothers.

Desire to have food during pregnancy

Food craving is quite common during pregnancy. There is no proven logic that why this happens. But it is said that the hormonal imbalances change the food craving and deeply affects the taste buds. Some may crave for spicy or sour food. Some may lose the appetite during the first trimester. Doctors may prescribe some supplements to balance the dietary requirements for the mother and baby.

Some pregnant women crave for chocolates, ice creams, pickled vegetables, lemons and specific fruits. But if the mother has any type of diabetes, thyroid, PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) or PCOD (polycystic ovarian disease) controlled diet is highly recommended. So, they simply cannot follow the food craving they are getting.

Whenever we eat, all the food converts into glucose which works as a medicine for the brain. Brain sends the signals to all the body organs and cells through neurones for better function. But during pregnancy, the glucose levels need to be in control. Glucose spikes may give them severe foggy brain and crave to eat too much sugary food items, like chocolate and ice cream.

Eating sugary food items after a regular meal is recommended to control severe glucose spikes. On the other hand, pickled vegetables are a good option to enjoy during pregnancy. But make sure to not add too much of salt in it. Sodium chloride may make women dehydrated.

Sex during pregnancy

This is one of the biggest concerns pregnant couples produce. It is also one of the most controversial aspects around us. Having sex during pregnancy is normal as the placenta, amniotic fluid and uterine muscles protect the baby throughout 40 weeks. Unless the woman has some placenta related issues, high blood pressure or preterm labour issues, she is all safe to have sex during pregnancy. But it is always good to consult your healthcare provider before taking the next step.

As the blood flow increases towards the vagina during pregnancy to offer blood supply to the baby, women may feel high sexual desire. It is completely fine and there is nothing uncomfortable about it. As her pregnancy advances, certain sex positions may cause her discomfort. Clear communication with the partner can help in resolving this issue.

➢ Advantages of having sex during pregnancy

Many research studies concluded that there is no direct link between vaginal sex and preterm labour or premature delivery. But it is possible to have Brixton Hicks (false labour contractions) after orgasms. So, mindful checks about their vaginal muscles are a good thing to keep in mind.

Some women also find oral and anal sex as safe, easy, and pleasurable during the peak of their pregnancy. Blowing air into the vagina should be avoided as this may cause air embolism (air bubble into the blood vessel to restrict blood flow).