As defined by Mason and Whitehead, psychology is a branch of biological science that focuses on the study of conscious life in its origin (66). Mason and Whitehead go on to argue that conscious life refers to the experiences of the individual, and origins refer to the particular group or problem examined: for example, child, adult, abnormal, or animal (66-7). A basic examination of the definition of psychology demonstrates that the practice requires an understanding of human experience and behavior. As nursing practice incorporates an understanding of the patient to develop care practices that are both meaningful and purposeful, it is clear that there is a link between nursing and psychology. Given the basic connection that appears to exist between psychology and nursing, there is an impetus to examine this relationship more explicitly. Using this as a basis for inquiry, the current research considers what has been noted regarding the use of psychology in the development of nursing theory and practice. Through a careful review of what has been observed regarding the role of psychology in nursing practice it will be possible to provide a more integral understanding of how psychology can be used in nursing practice and how psychology was practically developed for use by nurses professionals. Role of Psychology in Nursing A review of the literature regarding the use of psychology in nursing demonstrates that scholars have examined various aspects of nursing in the context of different psychological paradigms. For example, Hevern considers the process of nursing practice in the context of narrative psychology, noting that both nursing professionals and patients develop a need to understand information about psychology. of their patients should be able to better meet their needs and improve patient health outcomes in the long term. Works CitedHevern, Vincent W. “Medicine, Nursing and Health Care.” Le Moyne College. October 25, 2005. Accessed April 19, 2011. Mason, Tom, and Elizabeth Whitehead. Thoughtful nursing. London: Open University Press, 2003.O'Connell, K.A. “Theories Used in Nursing Research on Smoking Cessation.” Annual Review of Nursing Research 27, (2009): 33-62.Upton, Dominic. “The value of psychology in the training of health professions”. Psychology Teaching Review 14.1, (2008): 3-12.Whitehead, Dean. “Health education, behavioral change and social psychology: the contribution of nurses to health promotion?” Journal of Advanced Nursing 34.6, (2001): 822-832.