essay questions for abnormal psychology

113 Abnormal Psychology Topics & Essay Examples

Welcome to our list of abnormal psychology topics to research! In addition to abnormal psychology essay topics, you will also find here interesting ideas to talk about, titles for a presentation, and abnormal psychology topics for research paper.

🔝 Top 10 Abnormal Psychology Topics for 2024

🏆 best abnormal psychology topic ideas & essay examples, 📌 simple & easy abnormal psychology essay topics, 👍 good essay topics on abnormal psychology, ❓ abnormal psychology research questions, 🔍 abnormal psychology research topics.

• Coping Mechanisms for People with PTSD
• Types and Triggers of Anxiety Disorders
• Cultural Influences and Eating Disorders
• Suicide Risk Factors and Preventive Strategies
• Schizophrenia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
• The Swings between Mania and Depression in BPD
• The Impact of Personality Disorders on Interpersonal Relationships
• Unraveling Intrusive Thoughts and Compulsions in OCD Patients
• The Interaction of Biology and Environment Substance Use Disorders
• Childhood Disorders: Autism Spectrum and Developmental Challenges
• The Relationship Between Religion and Abnormal Psychology But whose judgment will we use to separate the two contrasting elements of the psychology of normal and abnormal behaviors? Some religious beliefs permit the use of alcohol and it’s considered normal, yet others find […]
• Historical Perspective of Abnormal Psychology The field of abnormal psychology is therefore concerened with the study of abnormal behavior. The challenge that lies in the definition and classification of abnormal psychology is the issue of culture given that our cultural […]
• Abnormal Psychology Case Study: General Anxiety Disorder Generalized Anxiety Disorder is one of the anxiety disorders caused by abnormalities in the functioning of brain chemicals such as neurotransmitters.
• Historical Perspectives of Abnormal Psychology The concept of the connection between mind and body appreciates the fact that the two components are inseparable in the understanding of abnormal psychology.
• Researching of Abnormal Psychology The process of picking or pinching the skin allowed Shaylynn to become distracted from the source of anxiety and brought her relief.
• Abnormal Psychology and Abnormal Behavior Anxiety has been linked to the id which operates on “pleasure principle or the maximization of pleasure and minimization of competing tension” and “thought to be a source for sexual and aggressive thoughts and behaviors […]
• Careers in Abnormal Psychology They research the kind of problems these people have and look for the best ways to help them. They treat people by teaching those with these disorders the acceptable behavior and its importance.
• Abnormal Psychology: Nature of Fear There is a group of disorders which share obvious symptoms and features of fear and anxiety and these are known as anxiety disorders.
• Abnormal Psychology and Behavioral Interventions Illnesses of the mind have been considered the battle between the good and the evil in the early 12th-14th centuries. The unfortunate insanity of people was seen as the downfall of the town.
• Abnormal Psychology: NationalEatingDisorders Website Being a psychotherapist veteran of 31 years in the realm of eating disorders among teens, she has managed to produce the proper questions to be asked when contemplating if a child has a disordered eating […]
• Abnormal Psychology as a Scientific Discipline That is why, the purpose of this paper is to discuss the origins of abnormal psychology, to focus on challenges in classifying and defining abnormal and normal behaviors, to concentrate on the evolution of abnormal […]
• Abnormal Psychology and Humanism The supporters of humanism stress that cognitive and behavioral patterns confine human behavior and emotions to a set of stimuli and responses.
• An Invariant Dimensional Liability Model of Gender Differences in Mental Disorders The validity and reliability of research depend on the methodology that a study uses in the study of a given phenomenon.
• Abnormal Psychology and Therapy This is the basic role of abnormal psychology. One of the distinct features of normal psychology is the capacity to avoid generalizations.
• Abnormal Psychology’s Historical Perspectives Biological psychology is a branch of psychology that tries to expose the biological aspect of behavior, i.e, the study of the brain I,n relation to the behavior.
• Abnormal Psychology Essentials Therefore, the basis of this essay will be to explore the field of abnormal psychology with emphasis on the origins of abnormal psychology, how abnormal psychology has evolved into a scientific discipline, and the theoretical […]
• Fundamentals of Abnormal Psychology: Personality Disorder If a person had a history of ridicule and humiliation as a child, he or she may develop an excessive fear of the same in adulthood and will go through great lengths to avoid ridicule.
• Abnormal Psychology: Fetishism, Transvestic Fetishism, Sadomasochism, Voyeurism, Exhibitionism, and Pedophilia The desires of individuals with this disorder are to gain sexual arousal through dressing in clothes of the opposite sex or cross-dressing.
• Comparison of Normal and Abnormal Psychology In behavioral psychology, the word ‘normal’ basically means not to deviate from the standard norms, hence normal psychology entails the study of normal patterns of behavior, emotions, and mind. Also, both normal and abnormal psychology […]
• Fundamentals of Abnormal Psychology: Anxiety Disorders This paper has gone on to reiterate the fact that anxiety disorders are indeed a reality in life and as such, we should brace ourselves for their occurrences.
• Abnormal Psychology: Legal Issues and Licensing The report focuses on the legal issues related to the licensed and unlicensed professionals in the field of abnormal psychology. Those who are in the field of abnormal psychology are mainly interested in investigating behavior […]
• Abnormal Psychology: Mental Disorders Other common types of disorders are the eating disorders, which are related to weight and food. The basis of behavior and patterns of thoughts, are also related to certain disorders.
• Abnormal Psychology: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder In addition, some of this research indicates that the differences in the degree of the disorder are due to the varying nature of the trauma experienced by that individual.
• Individual Historical Perspectives of Abnormal Psychology
• Differences Between Normal Psychology and Abnormal Psychology
• Background and Perspective of the Abnormal Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology and Major Depressive Disorder
• Abnormal Psychology and Sociology of the Family Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology and Three Clusters of Personality Disorders
• Physical Illnesses and Disorders: Abnormal Psychology and Therapy
• Psychopathology: Abnormal Psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Approach
• Abnormal Psychology in Pop Culture
• Classification and Assessment of Abnormal Psychology
• Mood Disorders and Abnormal Psychology
• The Origin and History of Abnormal Psychology
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Abnormal Psychology
• Subnormal, Supernormal and Paranormal in Abnormal Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology: Abuse, Addiction, and Disorders
• Abnormal Psychology Conditions and Treatments
• Dissociative Identity Disorder and Abnormal Psychology
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Abnormal Psychology
• Legal and Ethical Issues Pertaining to Licensed and Unlicensed Professionals in Abnormal Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology: Typical Signs and Symptoms
• Adaptive and Maladaptive Behaviors in Abnormal Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology Bipolar Disorder
• Intellectual Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Abnormal Psychology
• Classification and Assessment of Abnormal Behavior in Abnormal Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology and Two Types of Behaviors
• Abnormal Psychology Problem: Excessive Use of Marijuana and Alcohol
• Mental Disorders: Abnormal Psychology and Therapy
• Clinical Psychology vs Abnormal Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology: Rumination and Depression
• Unipolar and Bipolar Depression and Abnormal Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology and Life: A Dimensional Approach
• Mental Health and Abnormal Psychology: Unusual Patterns of Behavior, Emotion and Thought
• The Link Between Abnormal Psychology, Mental Disease, and Addictions
• Anxiety Disorders: Social Anxiety, Panic, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Abnormal Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology and Culture-Bound Syndromes
• Abnormal Psychology and Multistage Analysis of Abnormal Human Behavior in Complex Scenes
• Abnormal Psychology Study and Law Enforcement
• Basic Theories and Techniques of Abnormal Psychology
• What Are the Four D’s of Abnormal Psychology?
• How Do Psychologists Diagnose a Disorder?
• What Are the Three Defining Elements of Abnormal Behavior?
• How Do Psychologists Define Abnormality?
• What Is Danger in Abnormal Psychology?
• How Do Cognitive Theories Explain Abnormal Behavior?
• Is Abnormal Psychology the Same as Psychopathology?
• What Are the Main Causes of Abnormal Behavior?
• How Do Psychologists Decide What Behavior Is Considered Abnormal and May Be a Psychological Disorder?
• What Are the Indicators of Abnormality?
• Is Schizophrenia an Abnormal Psychology?
• What Are the Six Models of Abnormality?
• How Does Abnormal Behavior Relate to Criminality?
• Which Approach Is Best for Studying Abnormality?
• What Causes Abnormality in Psychology?
• How Does the Humanistic Approach Explain Abnormal Behaviour?
• What Are the Theories of Abnormal Psychology?
• How Can Psychological Tests Help Individuals With Abnormal Behavior?
• What Do Psychologists Use to Assist in Diagnosing Abnormal Behavior?
• Is ADHD a Mental Illness or Disorder?
• What Is the Difference Between Mental Illness and Mental Disorder?
• Is Anxiety a Mental Illness or Disorder?
• What Are the Different Approaches to Explaining Abnormal Behavior?
• Is PTSD a Mental Illness or Disorder?
• What Is the Behavioural Model of Abnormality?
• Who Is the Father of Abnormal Psychology?
• What Is the Difference Between Normal and Abnormal Behavior?
• Which Personality Disorder Is the Most Controversial?
• What Is Psychodynamic Theory of Abnormality?
• Advancements in Early Diagnosis of ASD
• The Relationship between Drugs and Psychosis.
• Comorbidity and Treatment of Anxiety and Depression
• The Role of Genetics in the Etiology of Bipolar Disorder
• Sociocultural Influences on Eating Disorders and Body Image
• Neurobiological Basis of Borderline Personality Disorder
• The Impact of Childhood Trauma on the Development of Psychiatric Disorders
• Dopamine Dysregulation as a Neurobiological Mechanism Underlying Schizophrenia
• Implications of Cognitive Biases for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in OCD Patients
• PTSD in Military Veterans: Therapeutic Approaches and Interventions
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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119 Abnormal Psychology Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

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Abnormal psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on studying unusual patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions. This field explores mental disorders and their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. If you are studying abnormal psychology or have an interest in the subject, you may need to write essays on various topics related to this field. To help you get started, here are 119 abnormal psychology essay topic ideas and examples.

• The impact of childhood trauma on the development of mental disorders.
• The role of genetics in the development of psychological disorders.
• The relationship between substance abuse and mental illness.
• Exploring the effectiveness of different therapeutic approaches for treating anxiety disorders.
• The influence of social media on body image and eating disorders among adolescents.
• The psychological effects of long-term solitary confinement.
• Understanding the causes and consequences of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Exploring the connection between depression and physical health.
• The role of neurotransmitters in the development of schizophrenia.
• The impact of cultural factors on the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders.
• The relationship between sleep disorders and mental health.
• Examining the prevalence and treatment of borderline personality disorder.
• The effects of bullying on mental health in children and adolescents.
• Understanding the psychological impact of natural disasters on survivors.
• The relationship between childhood abuse and the development of dissociative identity disorder (DID).
• The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
• Exploring the stigma surrounding mental illness and its impact on help-seeking behavior.
• The effects of parental divorce on the psychological well-being of children.
• Understanding the causes and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• The relationship between childhood adversity and the development of antisocial personality disorder.
• Examining the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for reducing stress and anxiety.
• The impact of social support on the recovery from substance use disorders.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of eating disorders.
• The role of trauma in the development of dissociative disorders.
• Exploring the link between childhood maltreatment and the risk of developing depression in adulthood.
• The effects of early-life stress on brain development and mental health outcomes.
• The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing schizophrenia.
• Examining the role of genetics in the development of bipolar disorder.
• The impact of social isolation on mental health in older adults.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of agoraphobia.
• The effects of media violence on aggressive behavior in children.
• The relationship between childhood neglect and the risk of developing substance use disorders.
• Exploring the effectiveness of virtual reality therapy for treating phobias.
• The role of self-esteem in the development and maintenance of eating disorders.
• The impact of discrimination on mental health outcomes among marginalized populations.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of hoarding disorder.
• The effects of early attachment experiences on adult romantic relationships.
• The relationship between trauma and the development of dissociative amnesia.
• Examining the effectiveness of art therapy for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder.
• The role of parenting styles in the development of conduct disorder in children.
• The impact of chronic illness on mental health and well-being.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of gambling addiction.
• The effects of social media use on body dissatisfaction and eating disorder risk.
• The relationship between childhood ADHD and the risk of developing substance use disorders in adulthood.
• Exploring the effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating specific phobias.
• The role of early-life adversity in the development of borderline personality disorder.
• The impact of workplace stress on mental health and job performance.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of panic disorder.
• The effects of childhood abuse on self-esteem and self-worth in adulthood.
• The relationship between personality disorders and criminal behavior.
• Examining the effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy for individuals with schizophrenia.
• The role of social support in the recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder.
• The impact of childhood neglect on cognitive development and academic achievement.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of body dysmorphic disorder.
• The effects of parental substance abuse on child development and mental health outcomes.
• The relationship between childhood trauma and the risk of developing dissociative disorders.
• Exploring the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy for treating depression.
• The role of trauma in the development of acute stress disorder.
• The impact of unemployment on mental health and well-being.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of social anxiety disorder.
• The effects of bullying on adolescent self-esteem and mental health.
• The relationship between childhood ADHD and the risk of developing conduct disorder.
• Examining the effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy for individuals with borderline personality disorder.
• The role of social support in the recovery from eating disorders.
• The impact of parental divorce on adult romantic relationships.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
• The effects of childhood trauma on cognitive development and academic achievement.
• The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing anxiety disorders.
• Exploring the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating post-traumatic stress disorder.
• The role of mindfulness in the treatment of depression and anxiety.
• The impact of chronic pain on mental health and quality of life.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of generalized anxiety disorder.
• The effects of childhood neglect on emotional regulation and self-control in adulthood.
• The relationship between personality disorders and interpersonal relationships.
• Examining the effectiveness of family therapy for individuals with schizophrenia.
• The role of social support in the recovery from substance use disorders.
• The impact of parental substance abuse on child behavior and emotional well-being.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of postpartum depression.
• The effects of childhood trauma on social skills and peer relationships.
• The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing mood disorders.
• Exploring the effectiveness of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for trauma-related disorders.
• The role of self-compassion in the treatment of eating disorders.
• The impact of chronic illness on family dynamics and relationships.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of specific phobias.
• The effects of childhood abuse on emotional intelligence and empathy in adulthood.
• The relationship between personality disorders and job performance.
• Examining the effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy for individuals with bipolar disorder.
• The role of social support in the recovery from depression.
• The impact of childhood neglect on attachment styles and intimate relationships in adulthood.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of bipolar disorder.
• The effects of childhood trauma on executive functioning and decision-making abilities.
• The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing personality disorders.
• Exploring the effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating panic disorder.
• The role of self-esteem in the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder.
• The impact of chronic stress on immune function and physical health.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
• The effects of childhood abuse on social cognition and interpersonal relationships.
• The relationship between personality disorders and treatment outcomes.
• Examining the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for individuals with social anxiety disorder.
• The role of social support in the recovery from anxiety disorders.
• The impact of childhood trauma on emotional regulation and impulse control.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of substance use disorders.
• The effects of childhood neglect on cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills.
• The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing eating disorders.
• Exploring the effectiveness of trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating post-traumatic stress disorder.
• The role of self-compassion in the treatment of anxiety disorders.
• The impact of chronic illness on psychological well-being and coping strategies.
• The effects of childhood abuse on emotional regulation and anger management in adulthood.
• The relationship between personality disorders and suicide risk.
• Examining the effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy for individuals with anxiety disorders.
• The role of social support in the recovery from obsessive-compulsive disorder.
• The impact of childhood neglect on self-esteem and self-confidence in adulthood.
• Understanding the psychological factors that contribute to the development of dissociative identity disorder.
• The effects of childhood trauma on attachment styles and romantic relationships in adulthood.
• The relationship between personality traits and the risk of developing substance use disorders.
• Exploring the effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating generalized anxiety disorder.
• The role of self-esteem in the treatment of panic disorder.
• The impact of chronic stress on mental health and cognitive functioning.

These essay topic ideas provide a wide range of options to explore the fascinating field of abnormal psychology. Remember to choose a topic that interests you and allows you to delve deeper into the subject matter. Good luck with your essays!

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Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

• Essay Topics

1. Individual Historical Views of Abnormal Psychology 2. Normal Psychology vs. Abnormal Psychology 3. Overview and Perspective of Abnormal Psychology 4. Abnormal Psychology and Major Depressive Disorder 5. Abnormal Psychology and Sociology of the Family 6. Abnormal Psychology and the Personality Disorders Clusters 7. Physical Disorders and Illnesses: Abnormal Psychology and Therapy 8. Abnormal Psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Approach in Psychopathology 9. Abnormal Psychology in Mainstream Society 10. Classification and Evaluation of Abnormal Psychology 11. Abnormal Psychology and Mood Disorders 12. History of Abnormal Psychology 13. Abnormal Psychology and Neurodevelopmental Disorders 14. Abnormal Psychology: Subnormal, Supernormal, and Paranormal 15. Abuse, Addiction, and Disorders in Abnormal Psychology 16. Conditions and Treatments in Abnormal Psychology 17. Abnormal Psychology and Dissociative Identity Disorder 18. Abnormal Psychology and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder 19. Legal and Moral Issues Relating to Licensed and Unlicensed Experts in Abnormal Psychology 20. Abnormal Psychology: Common Signs and Symptoms

Essay Topics on Abnormal Psychology

1. Abnormal Psychology: Adaptive and Maladaptive Behaviors 2. Abnormal Psychology: Bipolar Disorder 3. Intellectual Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Abnormal Psychology 4. Classification and Evaluation of Abnormal Behavior 5. Abnormal Psychology: The Two Types of Behaviors 6. Abnormal Psychology Issue: Marijuana and Alcohol Abuse 7. Mental Disorders: Therapy and Abnormal Psychology 8. Comparison Between Clinical Psychology and Abnormal Psychology 9. Abnormal Psychology: Links Between Rumination and Depression 10. Abnormal Psychology and Unipolar and Bipolar Depression 11. Overview and Perspective of Abnormal Psychology 12. Abnormal Psychology and Life: A Dimensional Approach 14. Abnormal Psychology and Mental Health: Unusual Behavioral, Emotional, and Thought Patterns 15. The Connection Between Abnormal Psychology, Mental Disease, and Addictions 16. Abnormal Psychology and Anxiety Disorders: Social Anxiety, Panic, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 17. Abnormal Psychology and Culture-Specific Syndromes 18. Multistage Analysis of Abnormal Human Behavior in Complex Scenes 19. Abnormal Psychology and Law Enforcement 20. Fundamental Theories and Methods of Abnormal Psychology

Abnormal Psychology Research Questions

1. What Do the Four D’s in Abnormal Psychology Stand or? 2. What Methods Do Psychologists Use to Diagnose Disorders? 3. What Are the Three Elements that Define Abnormal Behavior? 4. What Is Abnormality According to Psychologists? 5. How is Danger Defined in Abnormal Psychology? 6. How Is Abnormal Behavior Explained According to Cognitive Theories? 8. Is There a Difference Between Abnormal Psychology and Psychopathology? 9. What Are the Primary Reasons Behind Abnormal Behavior ? 10. How Do Psychologists Conclude What Behavior Is Abnormal and Might Be a Psychological Disorder? 11. What Are the Signs of Abnormality? 12. Is Schizophrenia an Abnormal Psychology? 13. What Are the Six Abnormality Models? 14. What Is The Connection Between Criminality and Abnormal Behavior? 15. Which Method Is Ideal for Examining Abnormality? 16. What Leads to Abnormality in Psychology? 22. What Is the Distinction Between Mental Illness and Mental Disorder? 23. Is Anxiety a Mental Disorder or Illness? 24. What Are the Approaches to the Study of Abnormal Behavior? 25. Is PTSD a Mental Disorder or Illness? 26. What Is the Behavioral Model of Abnormality? 27. Who Is the Father of Abnormal Psychology? 28. What Is the Distinction Between Normal and Abnormal Behavior? 29. Which Is the Most Controversial Personality Disorder? 30. What Is the Concept of Psychodynamic Theory of Abnormality?

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• Abnormal Psychology
• Assessment (IB)
• Biological Psychology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Criminology
• Developmental Psychology
• Extended Essay
• General Interest
• Health Psychology
• Human Relationships
• IB Psychology
• IB Psychology HL Extensions
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• Love and Marriage
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Abnormal Psychology in 7 Studies

Travis Dixon January 20, 2021 Abnormal Psychology , Revision and Exam Preparation

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A challenging aspect of the IB Psychology course is remembering all the studies. It can be made easier. With some careful course planning (by teachers) and wise studying (by students), the Abnormal Psychology option could be covered in 7 studies. 

The IB Guide states that “Each option is divided into three topics. For each option, there will be three essay titles to choose from, one for each topic in the option.” (IB Guide, pg 35). This is incredibly important  to remember because it drastically reduces the amount of content you have to prepare.The following guidance is for the Abnormal Psychology option, since it’s the most popular.

Abnormal Psychology – Overview

The studies listed here are included in our revision resources .

Abnormal Psychology has three topics:

• Factors influencing diagnosis
• Etiology of abnormal psychology
• Treatment of disorder(s)

The fact that questions might link “…research, ethical considerations, or the approaches to understanding behaviour … to the topic heading” (IB Guide, p35) means that you must choose which specific topic you revise carefully.

The examples provided in this post are based on the material in our PTSD unit in the textbook.

• Exam Question Bank: Paper 2 Human Relationships
• Exam Topics in IB Psychology Paper Two: Overview
• Why do marriages end in divorce? A cognitive explanation

IB SL students can prepare for Paper Two in just 7 studies*. 

Abnormal Psychology – The Exam Questions

Before we know which studies to choose, we have to know what exam questions might appear. The content for the Etiology topic is simple:

• Explanations for disorder(s)
• Prevalence rates and disorder(s)

Plus the potential exam questions on the following:

• Research methods used to study the etiology of abnormal psychology
• Ethical considerations in studies on the etiology of abnormal psychology
• Biological approach to study the etiology of abnormal psychology
• Cognitive approach to study the etiology of abnormal psychology
• Sociocultural approach to the etiology of abnormal psychology

Careful study of the IB Guide can help you study smarter, not harder. (Taken from IB Guide p36).

Abnormal Psychology – The Studies

Explanations for disorders.

The following image shows how 7 studies can cover the topic “Explanations for disorders” (PTSD) in 7 studies. By carefully selecting explanations that are directly relevant to the three approaches, those questions are covered also.

Somes studies can be used for multiple approaches, like Urry (bio and cog) and Luby (soc-cult and bio).

Next we have “Prevalence.” When discussing prevalence of PTSD, we look at particular groups who have higher rates of diagnosis (i.e. PTSD is more prevalent in these groups). Three studies can cover three examples, including people from low socioeconomic status, racial minorities and women.

I encourage my students to become experts on socioeconomic status as a risk factor for PTSD, since this can be used for sociocultural explanations or  prevalence rates.

I recommend revising the same studies for research methods and ethics to make these questions more manageable. For instance, anonymity is always relevant in correlational studies, especially those gathering sensitive data like symptoms of PTSD. The following three correlational studies could be used for an essay question on research methods and anonymity.

Note:  It is possible you could be asked for a second research method. In this case, be prepared to write briefly about Urry et al. as a true experiment. Similarly, be prepared to write about a second ethical consideration, like informed consent (also relevant to Urry et al.)

Personally, I think Etiology of Abnormal Psychology lends itself to the best exam preparation. This is because it’s most logical how the three approaches are linked to this topic. Imagine how hard it would be to answer a question on how the biological approach is used to understanding factors influencing diagnosis. This is a potential question, albeit not a likely one.

Final Advice

Now you’ve made the exams easier by limiting the studies, focus on the concepts. This includes being able to explain  how and why   certain factors are associated with PTSD, as well as  how and why   research methods are used and ethical considerations are relevant. Develop your critical thinking as well and you’ll truly separate your answers from the rest. The goal isn’t about reducing studies, it’s about increasing your knowledge and understanding of psychology.

IB Psychology flashcards are now available here .

*This year (May 2021) Standard Level don’t actually have Paper Two since it’s cancelled due to covid. This means it’s actually HL students who can do Paper 2 in just 7 studies.

Travis Dixon is an IB Psychology teacher, author, workshop leader, examiner and IA moderator.

Home — Essay Samples — Psychology — Abnormal Psychology — Understanding Abnormal Psychology

Understanding Abnormal Psychology

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50+ Research Topics for Psychology Papers

How to Find Psychology Research Topics for Your Student Paper

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital.

• Specific Branches of Psychology
• Topics Involving a Disorder or Type of Therapy
• Human Cognition
• Human Development
• Critique of Publications
• Famous Experiments
• Historical Figures
• Specific Careers
• Case Studies
• Literature Reviews
• Your Own Study/Experiment

Are you searching for a great topic for your psychology paper ? Sometimes it seems like coming up with topics of psychology research is more challenging than the actual research and writing. Fortunately, there are plenty of great places to find inspiration and the following list contains just a few ideas to help get you started.

Finding a solid topic is one of the most important steps when writing any type of paper. It can be particularly important when you are writing a psychology research paper or essay. Psychology is such a broad topic, so you want to find a topic that allows you to adequately cover the subject without becoming overwhelmed with information.

I can always tell when a student really cares about the topic they chose; it comes through in the writing. My advice is to choose a topic that genuinely interests you, so you’ll be more motivated to do thorough research.

In some cases, such as in a general psychology class, you might have the option to select any topic from within psychology's broad reach. Other instances, such as in an  abnormal psychology  course, might require you to write your paper on a specific subject such as a psychological disorder.

As you begin your search for a topic for your psychology paper, it is first important to consider the guidelines established by your instructor.

Research Topics Within Specific Branches of Psychology

The key to selecting a good topic for your psychology paper is to select something that is narrow enough to allow you to really focus on the subject, but not so narrow that it is difficult to find sources or information to write about.

One approach is to narrow your focus down to a subject within a specific branch of psychology. For example, you might start by deciding that you want to write a paper on some sort of social psychology topic. Next, you might narrow your focus down to how persuasion can be used to influence behavior .

Other social psychology topics you might consider include:

• Prejudice and discrimination (i.e., homophobia, sexism, racism)
• Social cognition
• Person perception
• Social control and cults
• Persuasion, propaganda, and marketing
• Attraction, romance, and love
• Nonverbal communication
• Prosocial behavior

Psychology Research Topics Involving a Disorder or Type of Therapy

Exploring a psychological disorder or a specific treatment modality can also be a good topic for a psychology paper. Some potential abnormal psychology topics include specific psychological disorders or particular treatment modalities, including:

• Eating disorders
• Borderline personality disorder
• Seasonal affective disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Antisocial personality disorder
• Profile a  type of therapy  (i.e., cognitive-behavioral therapy, group therapy, psychoanalytic therapy)

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Human Cognition

Some of the possible topics you might explore in this area include thinking, language, intelligence, and decision-making. Other ideas might include:

• False memories
• Speech disorders
• Problem-solving

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Human Development

In this area, you might opt to focus on issues pertinent to  early childhood  such as language development, social learning, or childhood attachment or you might instead opt to concentrate on issues that affect older adults such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Some other topics you might consider include:

• Language acquisition
• Media violence and children
• Learning disabilities
• Gender roles
• Child abuse
• Prenatal development
• Parenting styles
• Aspects of the aging process

Do a Critique of Publications Involving Psychology Research Topics

One option is to consider writing a critique paper of a published psychology book or academic journal article. For example, you might write a critical analysis of Sigmund Freud's Interpretation of Dreams or you might evaluate a more recent book such as Philip Zimbardo's  The Lucifer Effect: Understanding How Good People Turn Evil .

Professional and academic journals are also great places to find materials for a critique paper. Browse through the collection at your university library to find titles devoted to the subject that you are most interested in, then look through recent articles until you find one that grabs your attention.

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Famous Experiments

There have been many fascinating and groundbreaking experiments throughout the history of psychology, providing ample material for students looking for an interesting term paper topic. In your paper, you might choose to summarize the experiment, analyze the ethics of the research, or evaluate the implications of the study. Possible experiments that you might consider include:

• The Milgram Obedience Experiment
• The Stanford Prison Experiment
• The Little Albert Experiment
• Pavlov's Conditioning Experiments
• The Asch Conformity Experiment
• Harlow's Rhesus Monkey Experiments

Topics of Psychology Research About Historical Figures

One of the simplest ways to find a great topic is to choose an interesting person in the  history of psychology  and write a paper about them. Your paper might focus on many different elements of the individual's life, such as their biography, professional history, theories, or influence on psychology.

While this type of paper may be historical in nature, there is no need for this assignment to be dry or boring. Psychology is full of fascinating figures rife with intriguing stories and anecdotes. Consider such famous individuals as Sigmund Freud, B.F. Skinner, Harry Harlow, or one of the many other  eminent psychologists .

Psychology Research Topics About a Specific Career

​Another possible topic, depending on the course in which you are enrolled, is to write about specific career paths within the  field of psychology . This type of paper is especially appropriate if you are exploring different subtopics or considering which area interests you the most.

In your paper, you might opt to explore the typical duties of a psychologist, how much people working in these fields typically earn, and the different employment options that are available.

Topics of Psychology Research Involving Case Studies

One potentially interesting idea is to write a  psychology case study  of a particular individual or group of people. In this type of paper, you will provide an in-depth analysis of your subject, including a thorough biography.

Generally, you will also assess the person, often using a major psychological theory such as  Piaget's stages of cognitive development  or  Erikson's eight-stage theory of human development . It is also important to note that your paper doesn't necessarily have to be about someone you know personally.

In fact, many professors encourage students to write case studies on historical figures or fictional characters from books, television programs, or films.

Psychology Research Topics Involving Literature Reviews

Another possibility that would work well for a number of psychology courses is to do a literature review of a specific topic within psychology. A literature review involves finding a variety of sources on a particular subject, then summarizing and reporting on what these sources have to say about the topic.

Literature reviews are generally found in the  introduction  of journal articles and other  psychology papers , but this type of analysis also works well for a full-scale psychology term paper.

Topics of Psychology Research Based on Your Own Study or Experiment

Many psychology courses require students to design an actual psychological study or perform some type of experiment. In some cases, students simply devise the study and then imagine the possible results that might occur. In other situations, you may actually have the opportunity to collect data, analyze your findings, and write up your results.

Finding a topic for your study can be difficult, but there are plenty of great ways to come up with intriguing ideas. Start by considering your own interests as well as subjects you have studied in the past.

Online sources, newspaper articles, books , journal articles, and even your own class textbook are all great places to start searching for topics for your experiments and psychology term papers. Before you begin, learn more about  how to conduct a psychology experiment .

What This Means For You

After looking at this brief list of possible topics for psychology papers, it is easy to see that psychology is a very broad and diverse subject. While this variety makes it possible to find a topic that really catches your interest, it can sometimes make it very difficult for some students to select a good topic.

If you are still stumped by your assignment, ask your instructor for suggestions and consider a few from this list for inspiration.

• Hockenbury, SE & Nolan, SA. Psychology. New York: Worth Publishers; 2014.
• Santrock, JW. A Topical Approach to Lifespan Development. New York: McGraw-Hill Education; 2016.

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."