Educational psychology plays a critical role in understanding learning processes by investigating the mental, emotional, and social dynamics that contribute to how people absorb, process, and retain knowledge. The concept of "productive struggle," as analyzed by George Reese, is a valuable example of this approach. Productive struggle refers to the learning process in which students grapple with challenges just beyond their current capabilities. Through this struggle, they engage in critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience-building, which leads to a deeper, more durable understanding of the material.

Educational psychology helps illuminate why productive struggle is effective by exploring the cognitive mechanisms involved, such as scaffolding, which involves gradually reducing guidance as learners develop skills, and metacognition, where learners reflect on their own thinking. By understanding these principles, educators can create learning environments that encourage students to confront and overcome obstacles, thus promoting cognitive growth. For instance, Vygotsky’s zone of proximal development highlights how guidance just beyond a learner's current ability can facilitate optimal growth. Similarly, constructivist theories suggest that engaging learners in active, rather than passive, tasks allows them to build connections with previous knowledge, enhancing retention and comprehension.

Educational psychology also provides insights into emotional aspects, such as motivation and perseverance. For example, when students experience a sense of achievement after overcoming a challenging task, they gain confidence, which can boost intrinsic motivation. Educational psychologists thus guide teachers in structuring lessons and feedback in ways that nurture students' resilience and encourage a growth mindset, helping learners perceive struggles not as failures but as essential steps in the learning journey.