Psychology

Course summary

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour, cognition and experience. The specification takes a broad view of Psychology by covering all core areas within a traditional approach, whilst allowing for the study of some of these in greater depth at A Level. In the first year of study, you will explore the research methodology used in Psychological investigations and the various approaches to Psychology. We will cover the Psychodynamic, Behaviourist, Cognitive, Humanist, and Biological approaches to understanding human behaviour. In Year 13, you will develop a deep understanding of three behaviours (Relationships, Aggression and Stress or Schizophrenia). Finally, we will complete the course by examining the wider issues surrounding the subject. This syllabus has been chosen because the specification was designed to provide a broad introduction to the scope and nature of Psychology as a science. The emphasis is on applying knowledge and understanding rather than just acquiring knowledge, thereby developing your transferable skills of analysis, evaluation and critical thinking. The specification offers a broad range of topics, with research methods in context.