What timeframe marks the origins of psychology as a professional field?

The origins of psychology as a professional field are typically marked by significant developments that occurred in the late 19th century. Specifically, the establishment of the first psychology laboratory by Wilhelm Wundt in 1879 is commonly recognized as the formal beginning of psychology as a separate and distinct discipline from philosophy and physiology. This event laid the foundation for the systematic study of mental processes and behaviors, which subsequently led to the development of various schools of thought, including structuralism and functionalism, during the subsequent decades.

Throughout the time frame of 1870 to 1909, key figures and milestones contributed to the formalization of psychology, such as the publication of influential texts and the establishment of professional associations. This period played a crucial role in transitioning psychology into an empirical science, differentiating it from earlier philosophical inquiries into the mind and behavior. Therefore, this timeframe appropriately encapsulates the emergence of psychology as a recognized profession and field of study.