IBDP Psychology

Group 3 | Psychology

What will I learn?

Psychology is the rigorous and systematic study of mental processes and behaviour. It is a complex subject, which draws on concepts, methods and understandings from a number of different disciplines. There is no single approach that would describe or explain mental processes and behaviour on its own as human beings are complex animals, with highly developed frontal lobes, cognitive abilities, involved social structures and cultures. The study of behaviour and mental processes requires a multidisciplinary approach and the use of a variety of research techniques whilst recognising that behaviour is not a static phenomenon, it is adaptive, and as the world, societies and challenges facing societies change, so does behaviour. 

At the core of the DP Psychology course is an introduction to three different approaches to understanding behaviour: 

• Biological approach to understanding behaviour 
• Cognitive approach to understanding behaviour 
• Sociocultural approach to understanding behaviour 

The knowledge, concepts, theories and research that have developed the understanding in these fields will be studied and critically evaluated to answer some of the questions being asked by psychologists today.

Furthermore, the interaction of these approaches to studying Psychology will form the basis of a holistic and integrated approach to understanding mental processes and behaviour as a complex, dynamic phenomenon, allowing students to appreciate the diversity as well as the commonality between their own behaviour and that of others. 

The contribution and the interaction of the three approaches can be best understood through the options. There are two options in the course offered at the Friends’ School that focus on areas of applied psychology: abnormal psychology and health psychology. 

The options provide an opportunity to take what is learned from the study of the approaches to psychology and put it into the context of specific lines of inquiry, broaden students’ experience of the discipline and develop the students’ critical inquiry skills.

Surrounding the approaches and the options are the overarching themes of research and ethics. Psychologists employ a range of research methods, both qualitative and quantitative, in order to test their observations and hypotheses. As a part of the core syllabus, DP Psychology promotes an understanding of the various approaches to research and how they have been used in order to critically reflect on the evidence as well as assist in the design, implementation, analysis and evaluation of the students’ own investigations. Psychology studies human beings and as such it is paramount that the ethical implications in any line of investigation, and at all points in the course, are fully explored and understood to ensure that ethical guidelines are followed at all times. 

Distinction between SL and HL: 

There are three main distinctions between the course at SL and at HL. 

The following extensions to the core approaches are studied at HL only (this differentiation is reflected in paper 1 section B of the external assessment): 

• The role of animal research in understanding human behaviour 
• Cognitive processing in the digital world 
•  The influence of globalisation on individual attitudes, identities and behaviour. 

SL students are required to study one option while HL students study two options (this differentiation is reflected in paper 2 of the external assessment). 

Both SL and HL students will be expected to show their understanding of approaches to research in the internal assessment and for criterion D (critical thinking) in paper 1, section B and paper 2 responses. 

Additionally, HL students will be directly assessed on their understanding of approaches to research in paper 3 of the external assessment. This will cover both qualitative and quantitative research methods. 

Why should I consider this course?

The study of Psychology helps us understand how our behaviour is shaped by the societies and cultures we experience and how we in turn shape our environment. The course also aids in the understanding of individual mental processes and behaviour with all of its nuances. The experimental study and report allows students a practical application of their knowledge and skills.

Assessment

What Skills does this course provide?

The study of IBDP Psychology assists learners to develop effective language skills for communication, and numeracy skills for research, data analysis and other applications. In addition, they develop a range of broader skills including those of problem solving, critical evaluation and the application of processes of scientific inquiry. Learners are better able to assess psychological challenges that arise in their own environment and across their own lifespan, particularly in relation to personal development, good health, mental wellbeing, social interaction, communication and lifelong learning.

What Pathway Options does this course provide?

Psychology can lead to opportunities in a range of careers and tertiary study including; human resource management, education/teaching, research roles, community worker, social researcher, counsellor, student advisor, psychiatry, psychology, welfare case manager, youth worker and social worker.