Paper 2: The Options and Contexts
Paper 2 is about applying psychology to specific real-world fields — Abnormal Psychology, Health Psychology, Human Relationships, or Sport. The key is knowing the three pillars that almost every question tests.
Last reviewed: 25 April 2026
Section A (SL) vs Section B (HL)
Section A — SL & HL
- Answer one question on one option
- Choose the option you studied in class
- 22-mark ERQ format — use PEEL + TEACUP
Section B — HL Only
- Answer two questions on two different options
- HL students must study two options
- Same 22-mark ERQ format for each
The Three Pillars of Paper 2
Almost every Paper 2 question will ask about one of these three areas. Organise your revision around them.
Prevalence
How common is this condition or behaviour? Who is most affected? What do the statistics show?
Example question: "Discuss the prevalence of depression and the factors that contribute to its global distribution."
Etiology
What causes this condition? Discuss biological, cognitive, and sociocultural explanations.
Example question: "Evaluate one or more explanations for the development of Major Depressive Disorder."
Treatment
How is this condition treated? Evaluate the effectiveness and ethical considerations of treatments.
Example question: "Discuss the effectiveness of one or more treatments for one disorder you have studied."
The Four Options
| Option | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Abnormal Psychology | Diagnosis, Prevalence, Etiology, Treatment of mental disorders (MDD, OCD, PTSD) |
| Health Psychology | Health behaviours, Stress, Addiction, Health promotion |
| Human Relationships | Personal relationships, Group dynamics, Social responsibility |
| Sport Psychology | Motivation, Arousal, Anxiety, Team dynamics |
Teacher's Key Advice
Paper 2 uses the same 22-mark ERQ format as Paper 1 Section B. The difference is the context — you must apply your knowledge to the specific option. Use the same PEEL + TEACUP structure, but make sure every study and argument is drawn from your option topic.