IB Psychology (HL and SL)

Aims

In addition to the core aims of group 3 subjects, Psychology students will learn to:

  1. Develop an understanding of the biological, cognitive and sociocultural factors affecting mental processes and behaviour.
  2. Apply an understanding of the biological, cognitive and sociocultural factors affecting mental processes and behaviour to at least one applied area of study.
  3. Understand diverse methods of inquiry.
  4. Understand the importance of ethical practice in psychological research in general and observe ethical practice in their own inquiries.
  5. Ensure that ethical practices are upheld in all psychological inquiry and discussion.
  6. Develop an awareness of how psychological research can be applied to address real-world problems and promote positive change.

Course description

Psychology is the systematic study of behaviour and mental processes. Psychology has its roots in both the natural and social sciences, leading to a variety of research designs and applications, and providing a unique approach to understanding modern society.

IB psychology examines the interaction of biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour, thereby adopting an integrative approach. Understanding how psychological knowledge is generated, developed and applied enables students to achieve a greater understanding of themselves and appreciate the diversity of human behaviour. The ethical concerns raised by the methodology and application of psychological research are key considerations in IB psychology.

Syllabus Outline

Part 1: Core (SL and HL)

  • The biological approach to understanding behaviour
  • The cognitive approach to understanding behaviour
  • The sociocultural approach to understanding behaviour

Part 2: Options (1 for SL, 2 for HL)

  • Abnormal psychology
  • Developmental psychology
  • Health psychology
  • Psychology of human relationships

Part 3: Internal Assessment – Experimental study (SL and HL)

Part 4: Research methods (HL only)

  • Approaches to researching behaviour

Requirements

No previous study of Psychology is required.

Potential careers

Due to the broad range of topics covered and skills that are learned, Psychology can facilitate any university course or career. Apart from Psychology and Medical courses, Psychology is extremely useful for any course that studies human behaviour, including Biological sciences and Neuroscience, as well as humanities such as History, Anthropology, Politics and Economics.

Psychology Specification

Contact for further information

Miss S Candappa: slfc@wellingtoncollege.org.uk

Mrs J Long: jcwl@wellingtoncollege.org.uk