The behavioral sciences standards are laid out into two strands- psychology and sociology, giving districts flexibility to choose to focus on one or both strands. The goal is to encourage students to see, think, and act, in ways that reflect the paradigm of behavioral scientists. In addition, these standards provide a rigorous framework to prepare students for work in the behavioral sciences.
Recognize the Interaction and Influence Between Individuals and Various Groups
Psychology Strand
SS-Psy.9-12.13. Explain how social, cultural, gender, and economic factors influence behavior and human interactions in societies around the world.
SS-Psy.9-12.14. Examine how an individual’s involvement in a collective group can influence their individual thoughts and behaviors.
SS-Psy.9-12.15. Analyze the influence different individual members of a group can have on the collective thought and behavior of the group as a whole.
Sociology Strand
SS-Soc.9-12.13. Explain the formation of groups and the creation and development of societal norms and values.
SS-Soc.9-12.14. Identify characteristics of groups, and the influences that groups and individuals have on each other.
SS-Soc.9-12.15. Distinguish patterns and causes of stratification that lead to social inequalities, and their impact on both individuals and groups.
SS-Soc.9-12.16. Examine and evaluate reactions to social inequalities, including conflict, and propose alternative responses.
Examine Factors that Led to Continuity and Change in Human and Group Behavioral
Psychology Strand
SS-Psy.9-12.16. Investigate human behavior from biological, cognitive, behavioral, and sociocultural perspectives.
SS-Psy.9-12.17. Demonstrate a basic understanding of the scientific methods that are at the core of psychology.
SS-Psy.9-12.18. Evaluate and utilize theories and methodologies, necessary to plan, conduct, and especially interpret research results.
SS-Psy.9-12.19. Adhere to and consider the impact of American Psychological Association and federal guidelines for the ethical treatment of human and nonhuman research participants.
SS-Psy.9-12.20. Collect and analyze data designed to answer a psychological question using basic descriptive and inferential statistics.
Sociology Strand
SS-Soc.9-12.17. Analyze the development of sociological perspectives over the course of time, and how those perspectives are used today.
SS-Soc.9-12.18. Utilize various scientific methods to interpret behavior and events through the lens of a sociologist.
SS-Soc.9-12.19. Determine ethical issues and necessary guidelines for conducting and analyzing behavioral science research.
SS-Soc.9-12.20. Apply appropriate research methods to collect and analyze data designed to answer a sociological question.
Apply Appropriate Research Procedures and Skills of a Behavioral Scientist
Psychology Strand
SS-Psy.9-12.21. Explain how the validity and reliability of observations and measurements relate to data analysis.
SS-Psy.9-12.22. Apply the major theoretical approaches and perspectives in behavioral science to our daily lives and civic engagement.
SS-Psy.9-12.23. Assess issues and problems within our society using behavioral science knowledge, and develop ethical solutions to address those issues.
Sociology Strand
SS-Soc.9-12.21. Explain how the validity and reliability of observations and measurements relate to data analysis.
SS-Soc.9-12.22. Apply the major theoretical approaches and perspectives in behavioral science to our daily lives and civic engagement.
SS-Soc.9-12.23. Assess issues and problems within our society using behavioral science knowledge, and develop ethical solutions to address those issues.