None of us, as human beings, function in isolation - we exist in a complex matrix of psychological and social interactions with others, and these interactions clearly shape the ways in which we behave in a myriad of circumstances. In some instances the link between our psycho-social environments and our behaviours is straight-forward and self-evident. If we live within a relaxed and supportive environment then it is very likely our behaviours will reflect that situation. But often, the interactions are not quite so simple, and this gives rise to some of the most fascinating questions in psychology. Why, for example, do some children develop cooperative class-room skills while others become school bullies? How does group membership explain differences in individual behaviour? And is our early childhood experience really so crucial to how we organize our behaviour in adulthood? The unique psycho-social contexts in which we grow up and live has a profound influence on human behaviour and PSYC1004 explores that context in an attempt to answer these and many more questions. The course is structured around the areas of developmental psychology, social psychology and personality, though it attempts to integrate these so far as possible to address our basic understanding about how people behave and feel in the complex and dynamic world around them.

No prerequisite knowledge is required for this course, nevertheless it is anticipated that students enrolling in PSYC1004 will have also completed PSYC1003. Completion of both PSYC1003 and PSYC1004 is required for most later year psychology courses. All lectures are digitally streamed and lecture content is available on line. Compulsory laboratory classes provide, for example, hands-on skills experience in the use of psychological tests, the systematic observation of human behaviour under a range of circumstances, and the practice and implementation of applied psychological research.

Honours Pathway Option

Entry to this option will be subject to the approval of the course convenor. The School of Psychology has major research strengths in three fields: social psychology, cognition and perception, and clinical/health psychology. In the Honours Pathway Options first year students have the opportunity to explore work on more advanced topics related to one of these broad areas. PSYC1004 students who take the Honours Pathway Option are required to prepare and develop a scientific presentation on an area of psychological science relating to social psychology or mental health / physical well-being. (PSYC1003 offers similar opportunities in other areas of psychology).

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

There were four assessment components:

• Laboratory quizzes (30%; LO 2, 5, 6)
• Research essay (25%; LO 1 - 6)
• Research participation (5%; LO 6)
• Final exam (40%; LO 1, 2, 5)
• HPO students: a poster presentation was an additional assessment item in 2008.

Three hours of lectures per week and nine 2-hour laboratory classes spread across the semester, plus four hours of research participation (or equivalent)

PSYC1001A and PSYC1001B

Burton, Westen, & Kowalski (2009). Psychology: Australian and New Zealand Edition (second edition) (text) + study guide + CD + Writing Guide (PACKAGE)