I/O (Industrial / Organizational) Psychology Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Please read below for quick, accessible answers to common I/O questions - the field, terminology, job hunting, and about our book!
General I/O questions:
Q: What is Industrial-Organizational (I/O) Psychology?
Industrial-organizational psychology is characterized by the scientific study of human behavior in organizations and the workplace (APA, 2025).
Q: What do I/O Psychologists do exactly?
Industrial-organizational psychologists can collaborate with management to plan policies, enhance training sessions, hire qualified employees, strategize to motivate the workforce, assess job performance, improve organizational structure, increase business efficiency, etc. (AllPsychologySchools, 2024).
Q: What types of businesses benefit from I/O Psychology?
All different types of organizations and workplace settings benefit from I/O Psychologists. This includes, but is not limited to, manufacturing, commercial enterprises, labor unions, and health care facilities (APA, 2025).
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Read about how I/O psychologists are promoting team cohesion among astronauts for NASA's planned 2030 trip to Mars.
Q: Where can I learn more about I/O psychology?
Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP)
I/O job seekers:
Q: Do I need a degree to work in I/O Psychology?
Most positions require a master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology, and need several years of experience before acquiring a senior or management position. Research-oriented jobs, university teaching, and some other positions may require a doctoral degree (PhD) (HarvardExtensionSchool, 2024).
Q: What skills are necessary for an I/O Psychologist?
The field involves a mix of both hard and soft skills. Someone who is interested in research and analysis, as well as excellent interpersonal and organizational skills, written and verbal communication skills, active listening, conflict management, and ability to work in and lead teams (HarvardExtensionSchool, 2024)
Q: Where can I learn more about I/O job openings?
Finding jobs in I/O can sometimes be challenging because it’s not always in the job title. One great resource is the SIOP Job Board Site.
About our book:
Q: Why was the book My Mommy is an Organizational Psychologist created?
The book was inspired after an experience trying to explain I/O psychology to a group of children. The goal of the book was to create an engaging story that could help explain what an organizational psychologist can do for people of all ages.
Q: What I/O psychology topics are covered in My Mommy is an Organizational Psychologist?
Our book was inspired by many topics and roles that I/O psychologists can do! The main characters, Walter and his mother Lynn, explore selection, assessment, turnover, visionary leadership, organizational change, mentorship, motivation, teamwork.
Q: How can I get involved?
Follow us on social media, leave us a review, and keep an eye out for future events!