Psychology

Course summary

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and human behaviour. Whilst it isn’t essential to have studied Psychology at GCSE to progress to A-Level, it is essential to have a curiosity about human behaviour. By studying Psychology, you will learn how we explain behaviour in a range of different contexts such as Memory, Attachment and Mental Health. You will develop an understanding of the different approaches to explaining behaviour, as well as the different techniques used by Psychologists to investigate behaviour. Through your study of Psychology, you will develop your evaluation and critical thinking skills as you analyse the validity of different explanations for behaviour. The study of Psychology is underpinned by an understanding of how science works and an appreciation of how research is carried out with human participants. You will study a total of 11 topics over two years, applying your knowledge of theories and research to explain a range of different behaviours. Content Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology • Social influence • Memory • Attachment • Psychopathology Paper 2: Psychology in Context • Approaches in Psychology • Biopsychology • Research Methods Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology • Issues and debates • 3 x Optional topics Optional topics Gender, Cognition and Development, Relationships, Eating behaviour, Schizophrenia, Aggression, Forensic Psychology, Stress and Addiction. We study the AQA Specification and further information can be obtained from the AQA website.