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. Moreover brain processes and the biological constraints on behaviour is vital in discerning human behaviour and behavioural pathology. Often, the interactions between behaviour, brain and environment are not quite so simple, and this gives rise to some of the most fascinating questions in psychology. Heredity and behaviour - is behaviour hardwired, are people born bad? Phineas Gage lost the entire front of his brain: he survived but it changed his behaviour - what does brain damage tell us about brain function and human behaviour? In two minds - what happens to behaviour when the pathway between the two brain hemispheres is cut? Brain plasticity - can different parts of the brain assume new behavioural roles if other areas are damaged? How does group membership explain differences in individual behaviour? Understanding pathological behaviour. 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 biological 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 PSYC1003 will also enrol in PSYC1004. Completion of both PSYC1003 and PSYC1004 is required for most later year psychology courses. All lectures are digitally streamed as far as possible, and lecture content is available on line.

Honours Pathway Option

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

Psychology 1004 involves three content modules. The content modules cover Biological Psychology, Social Psychology, and Personality. By the end of the semester, we hope that you will have achieved a deep theoretical and applied understanding of each of these areas. Moreover, you should also develop an ability to access psychological information using the database PsycInfo and the ANU library catalogue, familiarity with Wattle, the ability to write a psychology laboratory report, and an understanding of academic honesty (including a clear understanding of plagiarism and how to reference correctly in psychology).