Psychology

Course summary

Psychology is the study of human behaviour and mental processes. Psychologists look at human behaviour from various viewpoints. For example, we can try to understand behaviour from a biological point of view by studying genetics, or changes in brain chemistry. In contrast, we can study how behaviour is a consequence of the family and environment you are in, the people you meet, and the daily interactions you have. Either of the above could perhaps be used to explain criminal behaviour, ability to cope with stress, or the perception we have of our own gender. The course looks at some of the approaches that psychologists follow and by studying selected research in depth, students gain an understanding of the five main areas of Psychology – cognitive, developmental, social, physiological and individual differences. Methodology, psychological debates and ethical considerations permeate the whole course.