GEHRHSD Curriculum Guide 2026-27

PSYCHOLOGY Grades 10-12, 5 Credits

Psychology is the scientific study of human and animal behavior. Why do we do what we do? Why are we who we are? Psychology intends to introduce students to a systematic scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are introduced to the psychological facts, principles and phenomena associated with the major subfields within the discipline. Topics include history, research, biology, sensation, perception, consciousness, learning, motivation, emotion, development, personality, testing, psychological disorders and treatment. Also included is an examination of the methods psychologists use in their science and their practice. Emphasis is placed on how the world is perceived by the brain and what effect those perceptions have on both normal and abnormal personality behaviors. Advanced Placement Psychology will consist of a survey of the major concepts and theoretical perspectives that exist in the body of modern day psychological thinking. Emphasis will be placed on developing an eclectic philosophy by studying the theories of Freud, Piaget, Erikson, Adler, Watson, Skinner, Bandura, Rogers and Maslow. In addition to these theorists, students will be exposed to the works of other contemporary psychologists and their contributions to psychological thought. Also included is an examination of the methods psychologists use in their science and practice as well as how the world is perceived by the brain and what effect those perceptions have on both normal and abnormal personality behaviors. A unit on abnormal psychology will expose students to the study of mental illnesses as well as treatment strategies used in both normal and abnormal psychology. This course is an elective that is offered to sophomore, junior and senior level students who choose to develop their understanding of the content on the advanced level. Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation and/or a 90 or above in current social studies course or an 80 or above in current honors social studies course. AP PSYCHOLOGY Grades 10-12, 5 Credits