Psychology

Course summary

Psychology is the scientific study of the human brain and behaviour. Psychologists attempt to explain why people think, feel or behave in a certain way to make predictions about how people will act in the future. Psychological research has important implications for society; theories and research are used to inform social policies and are integral to the development of effective treatment programmes and interventions for mental illness. It is a very broad subject and the A Level course provides students with an insight into some of the most popular areas of research. The course is split into the following papers and topics: Paper 1: Social Influence, Memory, Attachment and Psychopathology. In this paper, students will explore the nature and structure of memory; how attachments between infants and parents are formed the importance of these early attachments for healthy future development; the power of social influence in explaining behaviour (with particular emphasis on conformity and obedience); a general introduction to mental health and abnormality, focusing on OCD, depression and phobias. Paper 2: Approaches, Biopsychology and Research Methods. In this paper, students will study the various approaches used to explain human behaviour and will be expected to draw comparisons between them. They will learn about the techniques used to investigate and measure behaviour and the relative strengths and weaknesses of each technique. There is a strong emphasis in this paper on the scientific nature of psychological study and the influence of biological factors on behaviour. Paper 3: Issues and Debates, Relationships, Schizophrenia and Aggression. In the final paper, pupils will be expected to develop their understanding of applied psychology, as well as learn about the major issues and debates associated with psychological research. They will study Relationships, Schizophrenia and Aggression, and will consider the impact psychological research has had in each of these areas.