Curriculum

What is Psychology?

You have probably heard the word ‘Psychology’ used but what exactly does it mean? There are a number of definitions that are used and could include ‘the scientific study of mind and behaviour’ (Gross, 1992). Although the behaviour of human beings has always been of interest to others, it is only relatively recently that a rigorous scientific approach has been applied to its study. Psychology is basically the study of what people (and sometimes animals), do and why they do it.

Psychologists attempt to describe and explain a variety of human behaviours including answers to the following questions:

• Why do some people give in to peer-pressure?
• Why so some people conform to rules?
• Why do we get stressed?
• Why are some people prejudiced?

However Psychologists do not simply describe and explain people’s behaviour; they also use their understanding to help people with difficulties in order to bring about a change for the better. Psychologists are concerned with numerous aspects of society and attempt to solve practical problems such as:

• How do you cure a fear of spiders?
• How can you improve your memory?
• How do we reduce racial prejudice?
• What is the best way to treat mental illness?
• How to help people control their aggression?

Psychology though is a relatively young scientific discipline so there is still much to learn about the complexity of human experience and behaviour.

In year 12 students study memory, attachment, research methods, stress, abnormality and social psychology.

In year 13 students study relationships, aggression, eating behaviour, media, phobias and research methods.