Psychology

Course summary

Paper 1 – Core • Biological approach is about how our anatomy and physiology influence behaviour, and includes the study of the nervous system, neuroplasticity, endocrine system, pheromones, localization of function, evolution, genetics, and animal research (HL only) • Cognitive approach is about mental processes influencing behaviour, and includes the study of schemas, memory, decision-making, the influence of emotions on cognition, and the influence of the digital world on cognition (HL only) • Sociocultural approach is about the power of the situation and other people to influence individual behaviour, and includes the study of social identity theory, social cognitive theory, stereotypes, cultural dimensions, enculturation, acculturation, and globalisation (HL only) Paper 2 – Options • Abnormal psychology studies the prevalence, causes and treatment of mental disorders, with a specific focus on depression • Relationships psychology studies helping behaviour, interpersonal relationships and group dynamics (HL only) Paper 3 – Research methods (HL only) • Research methods and sampling • Ethics • Generalizability, credibility and bias