What is Psychological research?
- Content Type:
- Glossary
Psychological research Definition
The study of behavior, mind and thought as it relates to product or service marketing.
Psychological research in marketing focuses on understanding the cognitive, emotional and behavioral processes that drive consumer decisions. It examines how people perceive, think, feel and act in relation to products, brands, advertising and shopping experiences.
What are the key aspects of psychological research?
- Studies motivation, perception and attitudes.
- Explores decision-making processes.
- Uses experimental and observational methods.
- Includes emotional and cognitive responses.
- Applies behavioral economics and neuromarketing.
Why is psychological research important in market research?
Psychological research is important because it helps uncover the why behind consumer behavior. By understanding the mental and emotional mechanisms that influence choices, marketers can design campaigns, experiences and products that more effectively connect with consumers and influence behavior.
Who relies on psychological research in marketing research?
- Consumer psychologists.
- Behavioral scientists.
- UX researchers.
- Marketing strategists.
- Brand managers and creative teams.
How do market researchers use psychological research?
Market researchers use psychological research to explore the mental processes that drive consumer behavior, such as attention, memory, emotion and perception. This type of research is used to refine messaging strategies, test responses to stimuli and understand how brand associations are formed and recalled. Tools such as implicit association tests, eye-tracking and facial coding may be employed, alongside surveys or experiments. Insights from psychological research help marketers craft more persuasive communications and design user experiences that align with how consumers naturally process information and make decisions.