Why is psychology classified as a science?

Psychology is considered a science because it utilizes empirical reasoning and the scientific method to ask questions and examine hypotheses about human behavior and mental function. The discipline is also objective, predictable and requires controlled variables with hypothesis testing, all of which are considered criteria for scientific study.

Psychology utilizes a number of experimental designs that adhere to the scientific method, including qualitative and quantitative research, controlled experiments, longitudinal studies, descriptive research, observation in natural settings, case studies, animal studies and computational studies. These methods are used across many disciplines of psychology, including behavior, clinical psychology, cognitive science and industrial psychology.