12 Psychology

SUBJECT OVERVIEW

Psychology is based on evidence gathered as a result of planned investigations following the principles of scientific inquiry.  The skills learnt through Psychology are parallel to those learnt in other science subjects: how to be a critical consumer of information; how to identify psychological processes at work in everyday experiences; how to apply knowledge to real-world situations; how to investigate psychological issues; and how to be an effective communicator.

Psychology aims to describe and explain both the university of human experience and individual and cultural diversity.  It also addresses the ways in which behaviour can be changed.  It offers a means for making society more cohesive and equitable; that is, psychology offers ways of intervening to advance the wellbeing of individuals, groups, and societies.  However, every change holds the possibility of harm.  The ethics of research and intervention are therefor an integral part of psychology.

An inquiry approach to psychology enables students to define the scope of their learning by identifying investigable questions, deconstructing and designing their research using scientific approaches, using data, and analysing and critiquing their findings.  The issues that arise during investigations should be informed by the application of key scientific ideas, skills, concepts, and understanding.

The topics for Stage 2 Psychology are:

• psychology of the individual 
• psychology of health and wellbeing
• organisational psychology
• social influence
• the psychology of learning