IBDP Psychology is a comprehensive two-year course designed for students aged sixteen to nineteen. As part of Group 3 Individuals and Societies in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, it develops critical thinking skills and scientific understanding of human behavior. The course embodies IB learner profile attributes, fostering students to become inquirers, thinkers, and reflective learners while preparing them for university-level study.
The IBDP Psychology course is structured around three core approaches that interconnect to provide comprehensive understanding. The Biological Approach examines how biology influences behavior, the Cognitive Approach focuses on mental processes, and the Sociocultural Approach explores social and cultural influences. Students can choose between Standard Level and Higher Level, with HL requiring additional extension topics. Assessment includes Papers 1 and 2 for all students, Paper 3 for HL students, and an Internal Assessment experimental study.
The Biological Approach examines how biological factors influence behavior through neurons, neurotransmitters, brain localization, hormones, and genetics. Key research methods include brain imaging techniques like fMRI and PET scans, correlational studies, and controlled experiments. The famous H.M. case study demonstrated the hippocampus role in memory formation, highlighting both scientific insights and ethical considerations in biological research. This approach uses rigorous scientific methodology to understand the biological basis of human behavior.
The Cognitive Approach examines mental processes including memory, thinking, and decision-making. The multi-store memory model shows information flow from sensory to short-term to long-term memory. Schema theory explains how we organize knowledge, while cognitive biases reveal systematic errors in thinking. Classic studies by Loftus and Palmer demonstrated how memory can be reconstructed, and Kahneman and Tversky revealed predictable biases in human judgment. Modern technology continues advancing our understanding of cognitive processes.
The Sociocultural Approach examines how social and cultural factors shape behavior through social identity theory, conformity, and cultural dimensions. Tajfel's social identity theory explains in-group and out-group dynamics, while Asch's conformity experiments revealed social pressure effects. Hofstede's cultural dimensions theory distinguishes between collectivist and individualist cultures. This approach emphasizes cultural sensitivity in research, addressing ethical considerations and cultural bias awareness in cross-cultural psychological studies.