This course provides an introduction to how theory and research in psychology can be applied to a wide range of  questions that people often ask about themselves, their families and relationships, their work, their future, society and the environment. During the course a series of questions will be addressed from different  perspectives including clinical, developmental, cognitive, and social psychological approaches. The questions will cover a range of issues and will typically change from year to year. Examples of questions that may be addressed are:

      - Does psychotherapy really help?

      - Does child-care damage children?

      - Why do we become addicted?

      - Why do we fall in love?

      - Are criminals made or born?

      - What makes someone charismatic?

      - Can eye-witness testimony be relied on?

      - How do you select the right person for the job?

The application of psychological knowledge to a wide range of settings (clinical, forensic, business, government, sport, etc.) will be discussed and explored using problem-based learning methods. This course provides an ideal introduction to how psychology contributes to the understanding of our own behaviour and the behaviour of those around us.

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

In 2008, there were two assessment components:

• Essay (50%; LO 1, 2, 3)
• Final exam (40%; LO 1, 2, 3)

Two hours of lectures per week and eight 2 hour laboratories across the semester