PS32026: Genetic psychology
[Page last updated: 22 April 2025]
Academic Year: | 2025/26 |
Owning Department/School: | Department of Psychology |
Credits: | 5 [equivalent to 10 CATS credits] |
Notional Study Hours: | 100 |
Level: | Honours (FHEQ level 6) |
Period: |
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Assessment Summary: | CWES 100% |
Assessment Detail: |
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Supplementary Assessment: |
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Requisites: | Before taking this module you must ( take PS22007 OR take PS20167 ) AND ( take PS22008 OR take PS20168 ) |
Learning Outcomes: |
By the end of the unit, you will be able to:
Demonstrate understanding and insight in classic and contemporary theory of heritability and genetic mechanisms in behaviour. Demonstrate a critical knowledge of contemporary research approaches in behavioural genetics. Showcase important methodological and ethical considerations when interpreting individual genetic risk profiles for mental illness. Demonstrate critical insight into the strengths and limitations of genetic research across psychological processes. |
Synopsis: | "Explore the ways in which we think, feel and act are coded in our DNA, and controversies surrounding genetic psychology.
You will learn about how aspects of behaviour can be hereditary, the role our environment plays, and how epigenetic changes can modify risk to mental health disorders. You will discuss questions like:
- are identical twins separated at birth more likely to have similar personalities?
- can trauma be passed on through genetic code?
- how is behaviour influenced by our genes?" |
Content: | The unit will cover the following topics:
Genetics and heritability of psychological traits.
Common approaches in genetic research.
Behavioural and neuroimaging genetics.
Epigenetics of mental health and transgenerational epigenetic inheritance.
Gene-environments interactions and correlations in psychology.
Controversies in genetic and epigenetic research. |
Course availability: |
PS32026 is Optional on the following courses:Department of Psychology
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Notes:
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