Psychology
Why study Psychology?
Psychology is defined as ‘the science of the mind and behaviour’.
Psychology is a fascinating subject to study. It will help you understand human behaviour and mental processes and allow you to better understand how we think, feel and behave.
Studying A-Level psychology will enable you to look at some of the important questions such as why do some people conform? Does prison really change criminal behaviour? What shapes our personality? How do we learn and change throughout our life?
If you are interested in a deeper understanding of the human condition, you should consider studying psychology.
Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour: how we think, act and interact individually and in groups. In lessons we consider many key issues such as why do people conform? Why do people commit crime? How important is early childhood for later development? What causes disorders such as OCD and schizophrenia? How does gender affect behaviour? We also study how an understanding of what makes people tick can help solve major problems in society such as how best to treat mental illness.
Exam Board:
AQA: www.aqa.org.uk
Course Outline:
Paper 1
Introductory topics in psychology:
- Social Influence
- Memory
- Attachment
- Psychopathology
Paper 2
Psychology in Context
- Approaches
- Biopsychology
- Research Methods
Paper 3
Issues and Options in Psychology
- Issues and Debates
- Gender
- Schizophrenia
- Forensic Psychology
How you are assessed:
The course is assessed through three examinations as follows:
Paper 1
2 hour written paper – 96 marks
Paper 2
2 hour written paper – 96 marks
Paper 3
2 hour written paper – 96 marks
Studying this subject could lead to a career in:
Students who have completed the A Level in Psychology have taken a variety of courses at university. These include BSC courses in Psychology, Cognitive Science and Behavioural Science. However, many have applied successfully for Law, Medicine, Social Work, Nursing, Teaching, Arts and Humanities.
This demonstrates how, as an A level, Psychology combines well with science subjects, social sciences and arts and humanities subjects.
Subject requirements:
No subject specific requirements
Useful web links:
Log onto the AQA Website for further information -
https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/psychology/as-and-a-level/psychology-7181-7182
Sixth Form
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