This unit introduces you to the foundations and evolution of psychology as both a science and a discipline. You will explore the historical context of psychological thought, examine key theoretical perspectives, and consider how differing approaches shape our understanding of human behaviour. From the origins of scientific inquiry to the development of modern applied psychology, the unit investigates how psychologists determine which aspects of the human experience to study, and how shared assumptions underpin diverse theoretical frameworks. You will also gain insight into what it means to conduct scientific research within the field, laying the groundwork for future study in psychology.

In this unit, you will delve into the core theories and research methods that define both social and developmental psychology. The unit explores how individuals interact within social contexts, and how these interactions influence behaviour, perception, and identity. At the same time, it traces human psychological development across the lifespan, examining how people grow and change from infancy through adulthood. You will evaluate landmark studies, contemporary applications, and theoretical models that reveal the interconnection between social influence and human development, preparing you to apply this knowledge in academic or real-world settings.

This unit provides you with a comprehensive overview of the biological foundations of human behaviour. You will explore the structure and function of the nervous system—including both the central and peripheral divisions—and gain an understanding of how sensory, relay, and motor neurons facilitate communication within the body. The unit also covers the mechanisms of synaptic transmission and the roles of neurotransmitters, as well as the interaction between the nervous and endocrine systems in regulating physiological processes. Classic psychological experiments are examined to highlight the real-world implications of biopsychological principles and to reinforce key learning outcomes.

This unit focuses on the nature, formation, and significance of psychological attachments, particularly in early life. You will study key theories and research related to bonding and emotional development, exploring how secure and disrupted attachments can influence later behaviour and relationships. The unit emphasises the critical role that early experiences play in shaping psychological growth, drawing on case studies and empirical findings to illustrate how attachment dynamics affect both childhood and adult life. This foundational knowledge supports further exploration in developmental psychology and therapeutic practice.

This unit explores the complex mechanisms of human memory, introducing you to various types of memory systems and the cognitive models that describe them. You will examine how memories are formed, stored, and retrieved, as well as the psychological theories that explain forgetting. Real-world applications are central to this unit, with particular attention paid to the reliability of eyewitness testimony and the practical implications of memory research in legal and clinical contexts. Through a mix of theory and application, you will gain a nuanced understanding of memory processes.

This unit equips you with essential skills in psychological research, combining foundational knowledge of methodology with an introduction to statistical analysis. Topics include experimental design, sampling methods, counterbalancing, and key statistical tools such as histograms, summary statistics, and hypothesis testing. Ethical standards for psychological research are emphasised throughout, with reference to current guidelines from professional bodies such as the British Psychological Society (BPS) and the American Psychological Association (APA). By the end of the unit, you will be prepared to design, conduct, and evaluate psychological studies in a scientifically and ethically sound manner.