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Psychology

Dec 10, 2025

283

2 pages

Comprehensive Overview of Psychology Approaches for AS Level

user profile picture

Shannon Goodrich @shannongoodrich_kdum

Psychology isn't just one single way of understanding human behaviour - it's actually made up of several different... Show more

Approaches to psychology

Biological approach.
believes behaviour can be explained by inherited.
Characteristics (genes)
can also be explain

The Core Psychological Approaches

Ever wondered why you're naturally good at maths while your mate struggles, or why certain childhood experiences still affect you today? The biological approach reckons it's all down to what you've inherited through your genes, plus the hormones and brain chemicals floating around your system.

Meanwhile, the behaviourist approach takes a completely different stance. It argues that you're essentially a product of your environment and experiences. Think about it - if you were praised every time you helped with chores as a kid, you're probably still quite helpful now.

The psychodynamic approach gets a bit deeper and more mysterious. It suggests that buried emotions from early childhood experiences, especially traumatic ones, are secretly influencing your behaviour without you even realising it. These unconscious forces might be pulling the strings behind your actions and reactions.

Quick Tip Remember that none of these approaches are necessarily "right" or "wrong" - they're just different ways of explaining the same behaviours!

Approaches to psychology

Biological approach.
believes behaviour can be explained by inherited.
Characteristics (genes)
can also be explain

Modern Psychological Perspectives

The cognitive approach focuses on what's happening inside your head - your thought processes, expectations, and mental shortcuts. For instance, if you expect a concert to be brilliant, you're more likely to actually enjoy it because your brain is primed for a good time.

Then there's the positive approach, which flips psychology on its head. Instead of focusing on what's wrong with people, it studies what's right with them. This approach is all about understanding how humans develop positive qualities and lead genuinely fulfilling lives.

What makes the positive approach particularly interesting is its core belief that people naturally want to lead the best lives possible. Rather than just treating mental illness, this perspective explores how we can all thrive and reach our potential.

Remember Each approach offers valuable insights, and modern psychologists often combine elements from different approaches to get a fuller picture of human behaviour.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

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Nature vs Nurture Explained

Explore the nature-nurture debate in psychology, focusing on key concepts such as attachment theory, behavior genetics, and the interactionist approach. This comprehensive analysis discusses the roles of innate biological factors and environmental influences in shaping behavior, supported by examples like PKU and twin studies. Ideal for students preparing for essays or exams on psychological issues and debates.

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Explore the interplay between genetics and environmental factors in shaping human behavior. This summary covers key concepts such as genotype, phenotype, twin studies, and the biological basis of mental disorders. Understand how nature and nurture influence traits and the implications for psychological research and treatment. Ideal for students studying behavioral genetics and psychology.

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BIOLOGICAL BASES OF BEHAVIOR

In class notes - edited at home

PsychologyPsychology

Most popular content: Biological Bases of Behavior

Most popular content in Psychology

Most popular content

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

 

Psychology

283

Dec 10, 2025

2 pages

Comprehensive Overview of Psychology Approaches for AS Level

user profile picture

Shannon Goodrich

@shannongoodrich_kdum

Psychology isn't just one single way of understanding human behaviour - it's actually made up of several different approaches that each offer their own explanation for why we act the way we do. These approaches give us different lenses through... Show more

Approaches to psychology

Biological approach.
believes behaviour can be explained by inherited.
Characteristics (genes)
can also be explain

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

The Core Psychological Approaches

Ever wondered why you're naturally good at maths while your mate struggles, or why certain childhood experiences still affect you today? The biological approach reckons it's all down to what you've inherited through your genes, plus the hormones and brain chemicals floating around your system.

Meanwhile, the behaviourist approach takes a completely different stance. It argues that you're essentially a product of your environment and experiences. Think about it - if you were praised every time you helped with chores as a kid, you're probably still quite helpful now.

The psychodynamic approach gets a bit deeper and more mysterious. It suggests that buried emotions from early childhood experiences, especially traumatic ones, are secretly influencing your behaviour without you even realising it. These unconscious forces might be pulling the strings behind your actions and reactions.

Quick Tip: Remember that none of these approaches are necessarily "right" or "wrong" - they're just different ways of explaining the same behaviours!

Approaches to psychology

Biological approach.
believes behaviour can be explained by inherited.
Characteristics (genes)
can also be explain

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Modern Psychological Perspectives

The cognitive approach focuses on what's happening inside your head - your thought processes, expectations, and mental shortcuts. For instance, if you expect a concert to be brilliant, you're more likely to actually enjoy it because your brain is primed for a good time.

Then there's the positive approach, which flips psychology on its head. Instead of focusing on what's wrong with people, it studies what's right with them. This approach is all about understanding how humans develop positive qualities and lead genuinely fulfilling lives.

What makes the positive approach particularly interesting is its core belief that people naturally want to lead the best lives possible. Rather than just treating mental illness, this perspective explores how we can all thrive and reach our potential.

Remember: Each approach offers valuable insights, and modern psychologists often combine elements from different approaches to get a fuller picture of human behaviour.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

4

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar Content

Nature vs Nurture Explained

Explore the nature-nurture debate in psychology, focusing on key concepts such as attachment theory, behavior genetics, and the interactionist approach. This comprehensive analysis discusses the roles of innate biological factors and environmental influences in shaping behavior, supported by examples like PKU and twin studies. Ideal for students preparing for essays or exams on psychological issues and debates.

PsychologyPsychology
13

Genetics and Behavior

Explore the interplay between genetics and environmental factors in shaping human behavior. This summary covers key concepts such as genotype, phenotype, twin studies, and the biological basis of mental disorders. Understand how nature and nurture influence traits and the implications for psychological research and treatment. Ideal for students studying behavioral genetics and psychology.

PsychologyPsychology
13

Psychological Approaches Overview

Explore the key psychological approaches including Behaviourism, Psychodynamic, Cognitive, Biological, and Humanistic theories. This mind map highlights the nature vs nurture debate, the role of learning and environment, and the impact of biological drives on behavior. Ideal for students seeking a comprehensive understanding of psychological theories and their applications in treatment.

PsychologyPsychology
13

Holism vs. Reductionism

Explore the critical evaluation of holism and reductionism in psychology. This summary covers the strengths and weaknesses of both approaches, including the diathesis-stress model, biological reductionism, and the importance of social context in understanding behavior. Ideal for students studying psychological debates and the biopsychosocial model.

PsychologyPsychology
13

Biological Factors in OCD

Explore the genetic and neural explanations for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). This summary covers the diathesis-stress model, candidate genes, neurotransmitter roles, and the impact of environmental factors. Ideal for students studying the biological basis of behavior and mental health disorders.

PsychologyPsychology
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BIOLOGICAL BASES OF BEHAVIOR

In class notes - edited at home

PsychologyPsychology

Most popular content: Biological Bases of Behavior

Most popular content in Psychology

Most popular content

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user