Psychology and the search for extraterrestial intelligence

Recent developments in the physical and biological sciences have furthered the hypothesis that intelligent life forms exist outside of our solar system and have prompted a number of programs intended to confirm such life forms' existence. The proposed field of exopsychology would involve the forecast, study, and interpretation of the cognitive, affective, and behavioral aspects of extraterrestrial organisms. Exopsychological research would encompass search, contact, and post-contact activities, and would include study and work with humans as well as with any extraterrestrials that might be encountered. Exopsychologists can learn from and facilitate the search process, gain an increased understanding of animal and human behavior on Earth, and help searchers, their sponsors, and the public in dealing with positive or negative search outcomes.