Psychology is the study of the human mind and behaviour. Students develop an understanding of themselves and others by exploring the interactions of biological, social, and psychological factors in individuals and groups.

Students develop scientific inquiry skills. As a science, the subject matter of this course is founded on knowledge and understanding that has been gained through systematic inquiry and scientific research. Scientific literacy is treated as a core underlying principle to the development of deep understanding in the subject. Students are introduced to new discoveries and advances, as well as considering the ethical issues relating to treatment and research. As a result, students learn to think critically, to evaluate evidence, to solve problems and to communicate understanding of human behaviour, thoughts, and feelings scientifically. Students apply evidence-based research to understanding and interpreting data. They develop analytical and critical thinking skills and learn to question and challenge assumptions about human feelings, thoughts, and behaviour. Students develop skills to communicate effectively, and present logical and coherent arguments.

The study of Psychology enables learners to understand how individuals think, feel and act within different contexts. Such knowledge has the potential to empower and enhance individual abilities and facilitate awareness of the human condition, along with tolerance and respect for others. Students develop their knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts, and perspectives to explain cognition, feelings, and behaviour. They analyse the nature and purpose of psychology and develop insights into types of feelings, thoughts, and behaviour across a range of contexts.

The study of Psychology develops the capacity and capability to transition to tertiary and industry courses, as well as different pathways. The course will provide critical thinking and communication skills valuable for a wide a range of life and work settings. Their understanding of people and multiple perspectives will enable and enrich their interactions with people and groups.

Psychology is both a discipline and a profession. Students in secondary school focus entirely on the discipline, as it would be dangerous to encourage students to consider themselves as possessing therapeutic skills beyond a critical self-awareness.

The Psychology course is written under the BSSS SCIENCE Framework.

Achievement Standards for SCIENCE courses can be found within the Framework.

The study of Science is the unveiling of the mysteries of the universe in order to make sense of nature in all its wonder and complexity. Through knowledge, observation, questioning, experimentation, discussion, critical analysis and creative thinking in a scientific context, students develop their investigative, analytical and communication skills while cultivating an appreciation of the natural world.

Self and Identity

Students examine traditional and contemporary psychological understandings of how individuals develop a unique self and identities in their context, using a range of approaches, including the interaction between nature and nurture. In examining differences, they will focus on individual difference in thoughts, feelings, and behaviour. Students develop skills in ethically and scientifically generating, evaluating, and communicating valid qualitative and quantitative data and conclusions.

Cognition and Emotions

This unit examines traditional and contemporary understandings of the basis of human cognition and emotion in context. Students explore how our perception of, and feelings about, the world shapes our interaction with it. They develop skills in ethically and scientifically generating, evaluating, and communicating valid qualitative and quantitative data and conclusions.

Normality and Abnormality

This unit examines traditional and contemporary understandings of the continuum of normality and abnormality, and the social construction of healthy and unhealthy thoughts, feelings, and behaviour. Students explore biological, psychological, and social, and contextual aspects of normality and abnormality, how they are determined, and how that has changed over time. They develop skills in ethically and scientifically generating, evaluating, and communicating valid qualitative and quantitative data and conclusions.

Groups and Society

This unit examines traditional and contemporary understandings of the implications of identity and membership within groups and society for thoughts, emotions, and behaviour. They explore how and why humans think, feel and act in group and social settings using a range of approaches. They develop skills in ethically and scientifically generating, evaluating, and communicating valid qualitative and quantitative data and conclusions.

Independent Study

An Independent Study unit has an important place in senior secondary courses. It is a valuable pedagogical approach that empowers students to make decisions about their own learning. An Independent Study unit can be proposed by an individual student for their own independent study and negotiated with their teacher. The program of learning for an Independent Study unit must meet the unit goals and content descriptions as they appear in the course. Students must have studied at least THREE standard 1.0 units from this course. A student can only study a maximum of one Independent study unit in each course. An Independent Study unit requires the principal’s written approval. Independent study units are only available to individual students in Year 12. Principal approval is also required for a student in Year 12 to enrol concurrently in an Independent unit and the third 1.0 unit in a course of study.

Psychology A-T 2022-2026  (713 KB)

Updated course from 2023

Psychology A/T (707 KB)

Psychology (300 KB)