A-LEVEL Psychology
A-LEVEL
Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. Studying Psychology at A-Level involves learning about theories of the human mind and behaviour, then evaluating these using research evidence. It also includes
understanding research methods and approaches in Psychology.
Subject requirements:
Minimum GCSE of 5 in Maths, English and Science (Preference: Biology)
Teacher to contact - Miss K Sogi
Social Sciences Area Coordinator - Miss C Miller
Social Sciences Curriculum Assistant - Mrs D Last
Course Content
Year 12
Component 1:
Memory – how memory works, why forgetting occurs and issues with memory
Attachment – why children form attachments and what happens when they don't
Approaches in Psychology – how different approaches assume human behaviour can be explained using specific
key concepts
Biopsychology – an introduction to biological factors that affect behaviour
Social Influence – why some people conform and obey and why some people don’t; how social change takes place
Psychopathology – definitions and evaluation of abnormality; approaches to explain and treat mental health disorders.
Year 13
Issues, debates and approaches in Psychology
Biopsychology – localisation, brain scanning and biological rhythms
Research Methods
Relationships – the formation and maintenance of romantic relationships; factors affecting attraction; virtual and parasocial relationships
Schizophrenia – how schizophrenia is clinically classified; approaches used to explain and treat schizophrenia
Aggression – explanations of aggression, institutional aggression and media influences on aggression.
Assessment Criteria
100% exam. No coursework.
Exam Board: AQA
Are you interested in:
- How the mind works?
- The relationship between mind and body?
- Individual differences and mental disorders?
- The scientific study of the human being?
- The role of memory in learning?
Leading to a career in:
- Personnel or Social Work
- Counselling, Health or Medicine
- Teaching or Child Care
- Forensic Psychology or Police
- Marketing
The subject goes well with:
- Biology
- Sociology
- Health and Social Care
We advise against taking Criminology, Psychology and Sociology together, as it narrows academic scope.
Human Sciences Vision
To create an educational environment that encourages students to:
- Be open-minded by engaging with contemporary and cultural experiences within society
- Be intense and critical thinkers by challenging and questioning established paradigms
- Practice values of professionalism through active participation with the research process and holistic and synoptic thinking
- Uphold the integrity and credibility of their chosen discipline by behaving ethically
Please see the Subject Guide links below and information about the Psychology course.
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Click below to learn about the course from Psychology student, Lucy.