Within the faculty we offer Higher Psychology as an S6 only subject.

This course develops candidates’ ability to analyse psychological explanations for individual and social behaviour. Psychology provides candidates with opportunities to find out about some of the ways that thoughts and emotions can affect how we feel and behave. Candidates use appropriate psychological concepts, theories, research methods and evidence to investigate and analyse internal and external influences on human behaviour in a range of contexts. Psychological knowledge of individual and social behaviour can support
candidates in personal and professional relationships, and can enable them to understand some of the factors that influence behaviour. As candidates develop research skills in psychology, they learn about the ethical implications
of research. Explanations for behaviour promote thinking, reasoning and communication skills, including analysis, evaluation, and application of knowledge and understanding. Candidates also develop numeracy skills, which are important in research.

The course consists of three areas of study:

Individual behaviour
Candidates analyse individual behaviour, investigate topics and learn how these topics can be explained using psychological theories and research evidence. Candidates evaluate and apply theories to show an understanding of individual human behaviour.

Social behaviour
Candidates analyse how interaction with others shapes social behaviour. They investigate psychological explanations for social behaviour, and use research evidence to analyse how the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of individuals are influenced by their social environment. Candidates apply psychological knowledge and understanding to explain examples of everyday social behaviour.

Research
Candidates understand and apply the research process and research methods used in psychology. They develop the skills required to conduct and evaluate psychological research. Candidates also develop numerical skills and an understanding of psychological terminology. This area of study is not assessed in a separate section of the question paper, however questions relating to research can be asked in the individual and social behaviour sections of the question paper. In addition, candidates must carry out research for the assignment.

All of the SQA information: https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/47902.html