In this unit, you will explore two of the most complex and widely studied mental health conditions: depression and schizophrenia. You'll examine the psychological theories and frameworks used to understand these disorders, along with key symptoms, diagnostic criteria, and treatment approaches. The unit also highlights the social, biological, and cognitive factors that contribute to these conditions, helping you develop a well-rounded understanding of mental health and psychopathology.

This unit introduces you to the foundational concepts of personality and intelligence—two major psychological constructs that influence how individuals think, behave, and relate to others. You'll explore how these traits are measured and understood across different contexts, including their role in criminology. The unit encourages you to consider how variations in these traits can influence motivation, cognition, and behaviour, and how they are applied in both psychological research and real-world settings.

In this unit, you will delve into the science of how we perceive the world around us through vision. You will investigate the psychological processes behind visual perception, including how the brain interprets sensory information to construct meaningful experiences. Topics include the perception of colour, depth, motion, and form, as well as illusions and the role of attention. This unit will help you understand how visual perception shapes our understanding of both ourselves and our environment.

This unit explores how social factors influence individual behaviour, focusing on both helpful (pro-social) and harmful (anti-social) actions. You will examine theories of social influence, group dynamics, conformity, aggression, and altruism, gaining insight into why people behave the way they do in social contexts. By understanding these behaviours, you will develop a greater appreciation for the psychological processes that shape interactions and relationships in everyday life.

In this unit, you'll study the complex nature of addiction, including both substance-related and behavioural (non-chemical) dependencies. You'll explore the psychological and neurological mechanisms behind addictive behaviours, as well as the social and emotional factors that contribute to them. This unit highlights the diversity of addiction experiences and the challenges associated with diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, equipping you with a nuanced understanding of this important area of mental health.

This unit encourages you to critically engage with the latest issues and debates shaping modern psychology. Topics include ethical considerations, the role of bias in research, and the responsibilities psychologists hold in society. You will explore current challenges, such as representation in psychological studies and the reliability of findings, while also reflecting on professional codes of conduct. This unit helps you become an informed, ethically aware participant in the evolving field of psychology.