How to Tell Your Parents You’re Changing to a Psychology Degree

Have you realised you’re not passionate about or interested in the path your course is taking you on? And so, you’re thinking about changing to a psychology degree? First things first, well done on realising that you need to change tracks to have the career in psychology you want. Now it’s time for a game plan so you can make the switch.

“Well planned change is key to success.”

Before you approach those you need to chat to – Prepare! They’re going to ask the tough questions you should be able to answer if you’ve thought this through. This article aims to assist you in hearing their concerns and addressing them confidently.

Three Steps Towards Persuasion

There is no quality as compelling, intoxicating, and attractive as certainty. The person who has an unbridled sense of certainty is the one who will always be able to persuade others. If you really believe that changing to a psychology degree is the right move for you, you’ll be able to persuade your parents.

“Prepare before you talk through the changes you want to make.”

1. Lay the Foundations

In order to convince them that you are committed to this change and prepared to engage in the long haul, you’ll need to do some research and thinking.

• Remind them of your abilities, interests, and values. Demonstrating, in the process, a sound sense of self-awareness.

• Convince them that you’ve done your homework, by knowing:
  • The career options available to you
  • What marks you’ll be expected to get
  • The hard graft that is ahead of you if you want to become a psychologist.

“Discuss the long-term opportunities changing to a psychology degree will bring.”

2. Define the Financial Context

If you are afraid to tell your parents for financial reasons, map out a budget and cost for switching your degree. Don’t forget to include tuition, transport and living expenses. Then add to this the starting salary for the field of psychology you’re hoping to enter.

• Set targets against which your parents can measure your commitment to the change. For example, the achievement, say of certain marks at the end of your first term.
• Offer to help financially by getting a job, this could be in the evening or holiday employment.

3. Set Expextations

Persuasion is about managing other’s expectations to trust in your judgment. At its core, it is simply about understanding and truthfully over-delivering on other’s expectations.

• Demonstrate to your parents that you’ve done your research. Explain to them how you are going to meet the academic targets you have set for yourself.
• Plot your course of study. Make it clear to your parents that you believe psychology to be your true calling.

Then set about proving to them your dedication to your chosen path by job shadowing, securing internships or volunteering at community NPOs.

“Be upfront and honest in ‘whys’ and ‘hows’.”

Three Things to Remember

As you’re talking about your long-term future, and something you’re passionate about, you want to have a truthful and heartfelt conversation. Accordingly, these three things are important to remember, while you planning as well as when you’re having your discussion.

Don’t Confuse Persuasion for Manipulation

Whether it’s because they’re paying for your studies or simply because they’ve raised you, your parents have a vested interest in you. So, it turns out, do you! Your career security and satisfaction will bring them peace of mind in their old age. For you to have these things, you need to find a job that matches your skills with your interests. And that gives you the chance to contribute to the wellbeing of those around you…. All while still paying the bills. You are not trying to coerce them into agreeing to something that is wrong for either you or them. You are doing what you’re passionate about. In a career that brings you financial security and a sense of fulfilment. This can only be a win-win for all.

“Be upfront and honest in your ‘why’ and ‘how’.”

Don’t Forget that Persistence Pays

Consider Abraham Lincoln, who lost his mother, three sons, a sister, and his girlfriend. He also failed in business and lost eight separate elections before he was elected president of the United States.

Stay persistent in your endeavour and message. Personality-wise you’re best suited to entering the helping professions. This is a degree that offers numerous secure career inroads and you’re prepared to give it all you’ve got. The person who is willing to keep asking for what they want, and keeps demonstrating that they value what they’re asking for, is ultimately the most persuasive. And they’re also the person who will succeed.

Don’t Avoid the Truth

Facing a hard truth is one of the most meaningful events that happen in our lives. It is important to convey to your parents that, while their input is valued, this is your career. Explain why you find your current study choice unfulfilling. Thereby get your parents to understand that pursuing a career path which holds no interest for you is not to anyone’s benefit.

Ready to Make the Switch to Psychology?

SACAP offers a range of qualifications in the field of psychology, including a fully accredited Bachelor of Psychology Degree. What’s more, our flexible study options mean you can fit your studies around your life. We have three intakes per year for both day and evening students. Study full time or part time, on campus in Johannesburg or Cape Town, or Online. To make the switch, click here.