Psychology is the science of the mind. The human mind is the most complex machine on Earth. It is the source of all thought and behaviour. Any attempt to explain why humans think and behave in the way that we do will inevitably be linked to one or another branch of psychology. The different disciplines of Psychology are extremely wide-ranging. At A level they include: Cognitive Psychology: Memory and Intelligence, Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology, Biological Psychology and Abnormal Psychology. What all these different approaches to Psychology have in common is a desire to explain the behaviour of individuals based on the workings of the mind. In every area, psychologists apply scientific methodology; they formulate theories, test hypotheses through observation and experiment, and analyse with statistical techniques that help them identify important findings.

What is Psychology @ DLD?

Through studying Psychology at DLD you will participate in a journey through some of the classic and most influential studies in each discipline, combined with modern day thinking. Teaching consists of a range of methods and activities that allow for different learning styles and encourages individuals to express their knowledge and understanding in a variety of ways. Activities include writing a report in the role of a psychologist, class replications of original studies and crucially, exam technique practice. As well as teaching the subject fully, the classes aim to prepare you for higher education with emphasis on confident critical thinking and independent learning, in a relaxed and supportive environment.

How is it assessed?

What do I need?

You need to be interested in understanding and explaining human behaviour. You do not need to have studied Psychology before, indeed most students haven't. Appreciation that it is a scientific subject which requires analysis of the research methods, data and conclusions presented by psychologists is important for academic success in this subject.

Good subject combinations

Psychology lies at the intersection of many other different disciplines, including Biology, Medicine, Philosophy, Anthropology, Sociology, and Linguistics. For example, Neuropsychology is allied with Biology, since the aim is to map different areas of the brain and explain how each relates to different brain functions like memory or language. However a number of students successfully combine Psychology with English, Drama or Art.

After DLD

Since Psychology is the study of what underpins human behaviour, its application in future careers is widespread. This can range from managing people, marketing products, practising Law and of course, specialising as a psychologist. For a career in Psychology you would need to first obtain an undergraduate degree that is recognised by the British Psychological Society and then specialise in one area, for example, Clinical & Counselling Psychology; Forensic Psychology; Sport Psychology; Health Psychology; Occupational Psychology and Neuropsychology. University courses in Psychology are popular and vast, but we are available to help you in finding a course that is right for you.

Questions

Can I do the course in one year? YES
Is Easter Revision available? YES
Will I meet Professor Philip Zimbardo? QUITE POSSIBLY!