The IB at Sevenoaks 2023 | Page 29

PSYCHOLOGY

PSYCHOLOGY

This fascinating subject covers social psychology , criminal psychology , mental disorders , memory , perception and the influence of genes on intelligence
Psychology is the study of behaviour , the brain and mental processes . Its purpose is to understand , predict and sometimes even manipulate behaviour . It is a diverse subject covering vast areas such as social psychology , cultural psychology , mental disorders , how the brain works , human relationships and the influence of genes on intelligence .
The core of the course explores behaviour from biological , cognitive and sociocultural approaches , and attempts to integrate these to produce a holistic understanding of human behaviour .
Some of the core topics include : localising brain functions using brain imaging technologies , comparing models of human memory , and why people often conform to the behaviour of the group they belong to against their own judgement .
Beyond the core students explore two options in greater depth :
Option 1 : Abnormal Psychology This option focuses on diagnosing , explaining and treating humans suffering from psychological disorders such as depression . It begins with a consideration of what is ‘ normal ’ and ‘ abnormal ’ behaviour and looks into the issues related to diagnosis and treatment , around gender and cultural issues .
Option 2 : Human Relationships This option starts by considering whether altruistic behaviour actually exists , and if so , why some people risk their lives to save others . It then looks at personal relationships focusing on attraction and communication , and what may cause once close relationships to end .
Students plan and carry out one psychological experiment . An example might be an investigation into the accuracy of eyewitness reports after a car crash .
Students have access to a large selection of Psychology textbooks as well as a dedicated IB website . There is a Psychology discussion group led by students , and external speakers .
There are opportunities to engage with the subject outside the classroom . This includes live conferences with influential psychologists , a visit to UCL ’ s Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging , and Bethlem Museum of the Mind .
Each year approximately 60 students choose Psychology . For the majority of students , it is a new subject , and no prior knowledge of the subject is required .
THE IB AT SEVENOAKS | GROUP THREE 27