Applied Psychology

Conducting Psychological Research explores scientific research principles and processes that are needed to investigate theories in Psychology. Results from such research can be analysed using statistical techniques to verify their significance and enable research to explain or predict behaviour. As part of this unit you will conduct a pilot study in a chosen area, for example social psychology. Drawing on key psychological theories you will gather primary data and analyse your research findings to present to an audience.

The study of Health Psychology explores the motivation behind healthy and unhealthy behaviours, and the factors that might persuade individuals to change their behaviour or follow the advice given by medical practitioners. You will explore how Health Psychologists can help improve behaviours, using psychological theories of persuasion and specific physiological and behavioural addictions and treatments, making judgements about their effectiveness.

Finally, an Introduction to Psychopathology will examine modern and historical concepts of psychopathology in society, and the types and characteristics of different mental disorders. You may consider factors that cause mental illness and professional approaches to the treatment of mental disorders, OR an introduction to criminal and forensic psychology (factors that contribute to criminal behaviour and the effectiveness of punishment strategies and behavioural modification programmes). You will apply different methods to create an offender profile.