Psychology is the engaging and systematic study of human behaviour and mental processes. 

Students will develop an understanding of the unique approach to understanding modern psychology while learning about the variety of psychological research designs and applications. Since the psychology course examines the interaction of biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour, it is well placed in group 3, individuals and societies. Students undertaking the course can expect to develop an understanding of how psychological knowledge is generated, developed and applied. This will allow them to have a greater understanding of themselves and appreciate the diversity of human behaviour.

In the first year of this course, students will undertake a study of the biological, cognitive and sociocultural psychology approaches. These make up the core topics of this course. In each approach, students will learn the concepts that pertain to the approach and a myriad of research that has been conducted to determine causes for human behaviour. In this year of the course, students will also develop their understanding of approaches to research. Therefore, to conclude this year of the course all students will conduct their own experimental research. Higher Level students will also deepen their understanding of research methods and approaches at the conclusion of the school year.

Underpinning the psychological approaches is the careful consideration of ethics; the ethical concerns raised by the methodology and application of psychological research are also key considerations of the IB psychology course.

Instructions

Once you have selected a course from this group, please select three more International Baccalaureate courses.

International Baccalaureate courses