The social sciences are exciting areas of study that let students delve deep into the workings of the human mind. Social scientists study how people interact, how they communicate, how they govern themselves, and how they function. Social scientists earn between $40,000 and $100,000 and more, depending upon the industry and the employer.

Behavioral Science
People with behavioral science degrees study the behavior of criminals, people with mental health concerns, and people with drug abuse or social problems. They investigate the behaviors, counsel their clients and develop treatment plans. They also conduct studies that inform organizations about people's tendencies and choices. In the September 2007 issue of the medical journal The Lancet, behavioral scientists announced that food additives can affect children's behavior. They found that children who were given artificial coloring and preservatives in drinks were more likely to be hyperactive and aggressive in class. Children who were given drinks that looked identical but contained no additives acted less hyperactive and aggressive.

Counseling
Counselors help people overcome stress, drug addictions, mental health issues and relationship concerns. They use talk therapy and other types of therapy to treat people and help them develop more positive choices and achieve better results. Counselors have great communication skills and enjoy working closely with their patients.

Political Science
Political scientists study governments and politicians. Many run for public office themselves, while others work as polling agents or advisors for government officials. Political scientists also help develop public policies and may specialize in certain political areas, such as education, environment, or healthcare. Two entrepreneurs, Andrew Rasiej and Micah Sifry, developed a Web site that analyzes how often, if at all, presidential candidates utilize technology to strengthen their campaigns. The site, called techpresident.com, helps constituents compare the technological savvy of their favorite candidates while helping candidates see where they lack.

Psychology
Psychologists study the behaviors, beliefs and actions of people and help them overcome issues such as depression, anxiety, addictions and other concerns. Psychologists sometimes work closely with psychiatrists to use drug therapy to treat patients. In the January 2008 issue of Popular Science, neuroscientist Joseph LeDoux reports on his research on eliminating human fears through drug therapy and blocking the specific memories that remind the person of the fear and cause further anxiety. Although he has not yet tested on human subjects, LeDoux was able to rid lab rats of certain fears by blocking areas of the brain that remember the trauma.