Psychology

Psychology is the study of our thinking, feeling and behaviour. It is an academic discipline which seeks to explain why we think, feel, and behave the way we do. Research is used to try and answer these questions and that research needs evaluating to assess its credibility. It is said that “Psychology is describing things which everyone knows in language no one understands” (Raymond Cattell). So be prepared to learn a lot of new vocabulary! An interest in people, and why they do the things they do, is essential for this subject. Psychology students tend to come from a wide range of academic interests, and it crosses the boundary between the Arts and the Sciences. It links well with any other subject offered at Diss Sixth Form. Psychology is a fully recognised subject for university entrance in any subject. It offers a wide range of skills useful in a vast array of careers and will aid your ability to interact with others throughout your life.

There is no coursework. Assessment is via three two hour examinations at the end of year 13. As assessment is by written examination a good level of English language is important. 10% of the assessment is of arithmetic and so a sound ability in Maths would be helpful.

Unit 1 covers Social influence, Memory, Attachment and Psychopathology (the study of mental illness).

Unit 2 covers Biopsychology and Research Methods.

Unit 3 covers Gender issues, Schizophrenia and Addiction

Minimum of five grade 4 GCSE passes; these must include at least grade 4 in Maths. Additionally, this course requires Grade 5 in English Language.

Psychology builds on skills developed in the sciences and humanities, It is useful for a wide range of people-orientated occupations in health, industry and commerce. There are higher and degree apprenticeship opportunities in healthcare, education and in business. To work as a professional psychologist in any of the branches of psychology you will need a minimum of a degree in psychology.