AQA Psychology for GCSE

Synopsis

Written by renowned author Cara Flanagan and a highly experienced author team, this Student Book has been approved by AQA, offering high quality support you can trust. // Each topic in the specification is presented on one spread so you can see the whole topic with just the right amount of detail and depth of information. // Spreads are divided into Description (AO1) and Evaluation (AO3) - the two key skills for any topic. // Research methods and mathematical requirements are thoroughly covered in a dedicated chapter plus in 'Apply it' exercises across the book. // Application questions, practice questions and skills guidance are provided for the new assessment objectives and mark schemes. // Each chapter ends with visual summaries, example student answers with comments and test yourself multiple choice questions.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introducing Psychology

* Psychology: The scientific study of mind and behavior.
* Real Example: A psychologist investigating the effects of social media on adolescent self-esteem.

Chapter 2: Research Methods

* Observational Research: Watching and recording behavior in natural settings.
* Experimental Research: Manipulating variables to test hypotheses.
* Self-Report Research: Asking participants to report their thoughts and experiences.
* Real Example: A researcher conducting a survey to examine the relationship between sleep quality and academic performance.

Chapter 3: Memory

* Sensory Memory: Stores sensory information briefly.
* Short-Term Memory: Stores information for a few minutes.
* Long-Term Memory: Stores information permanently.
* Real Example: A student studying for an exam by using flashcards to improve their memory for key terms.

Chapter 4: Attachment

* Attachment Theory: Explains how early childhood experiences with caregivers shape relationships later in life.
* Types of Attachment: Secure, Insecure-Avoidant, Insecure-Ambivalent.
* Real Example: A therapist helping a client overcome childhood trauma that has affected their ability to form healthy attachments.

Chapter 5: Stress

* Stress: The body's response to perceived threats.
* Types of Stress: Acute, Chronic.
* Coping Mechanisms: Ways to manage stress (e.g., exercise, meditation).
* Real Example: A nurse experiencing high levels of stress at work and using yoga as a coping mechanism.

Chapter 6: Psychopathology

* Psychopathology: The study of mental disorders.
* Common Mental Disorders: Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders.
* Treatment Options: Therapy, Medication, Self-Help.
* Real Example: A psychiatrist diagnosing and treating a patient with anxiety disorder.

Chapter 7: Social Psychology

* Social Psychology: The study of how individuals think, feel, and behave in social situations.
* Social Influence: How others can affect our thoughts and actions (e.g., conformity, obedience).
* Prejudice: Negative attitudes towards certain groups.
* Real Example: A researcher investigating the impact of social media on body image and the development of eating disorders.

Chapter 8: Issues and Debates

* Nature vs. Nurture Debate: The ongoing discussion about the relative contributions of genetics and environment to human behavior.
* Ethical Issues in Psychology: Ensuring the well-being of research participants.
* Applied Psychology: Using psychological principles to solve real-world problems.
* Real Example: A psychologist working with communities to reduce violence and improve mental health outcomes.