What is the primary focus of psychology?

The primary focus of psychology is accurately captured in the option that emphasizes the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Psychology seeks to understand how individuals think, feel, and behave, encompassing a wide range of topics from cognitive processes like perception and memory to emotional reactions and social interactions.

This field employs research methods to gather data and develop theories that explain both individual and group behavior, aiming to apply this knowledge to improve mental health, enhance educational outcomes, and inform public policy, among other applications. By studying both observable actions and internal experiences, psychology provides a comprehensive understanding of the human experience.

The other options emphasize areas that may intersect with psychology but do not define its primary focus. For instance, studying human anatomy pertains more to biology or medicine, examining historical events falls under the domain of history, and exploring physical health is typically the focus of fields like medicine or health sciences. Each of these areas may inform psychological study, but they do not encapsulate the core purpose and methodology of psychology itself.