Is AP Psychology Hard in High School?

AP Psychology is generally considered to be one of the more accessible AP courses for high school students. However, the difficulty can vary depending on a number of factors that contribute to a student's learning experience. In this article, we explore various aspects that may influence how challenging AP Psychology can be.

Factors Contributing to Perceived Difficulty

There are several factors that contribute to the perceived difficulty of AP Psychology in high school, each impacting students differently based on their individual strengths and backgrounds. Let's delve into these factors in detail.

Content and Curriculum

Topics Covered: The course includes a wide array of topics such as psychological theories, research methods, development, cognition, and disorders. While this breadth of content can seem daunting at first, many students find it manageable and intriguing.

Reading and Memorization

Reading: There is a significant amount of reading material to cover, which can be challenging for some students. This includes textbooks, articles, and other supplementary materials. While the reading load is moderate and manageable, it requires diligent effort to keep up with the course.

Memorization: The course involves a large amount of specialized vocabulary and terminology that needs to be memorized. This can be particularly challenging for students who are not naturally inclined towards memorization tasks. However, with proper study strategies, this aspect of the course becomes more manageable.

Skills Required

Critical Thinking: Students need to apply psychological concepts to real-world scenarios, which requires strong critical thinking skills. This application can be more challenging for students who are not naturally inclined towards abstract reasoning.

Research Methods: Understanding experimental design and statistical concepts can be a bit challenging, especially for students who are not familiar with these topics. However, with proper guidance and resources, this can be a valuable learning experience.

Exam Format

Multichoice vs. Free Response: The AP exam includes multiple-choice questions designed to test your understanding of the content, as well as free-response sections that require students to articulate their understanding clearly. Both sections contribute to the overall assessment, making it important for students to prepare effectively.

Student Experience

Variety of Difficulty: Student experiences can vary widely based on their interest in psychology, their study habits, and prior knowledge. Some students find the course easy, while others may find it more challenging. This is influenced not only by individual abilities but also by the teaching style and support resources available.

Support Resources

Resources: Many schools offer additional resources to help students prepare for the AP Psychology exam. These may include review sessions, study guides, and access to additional practice materials. Students who actively seek out these resources tend to find the course more manageable.

Personal Experience

My youngest, a senior taking AP Psychology, has reported a moderate reading load, though some students have complained about the homework. She has found the course largely enjoyable and relatively easy so far, particularly due to her specific teacher and the support resources available. However, it's important to note that what works for one student may not work for another. Success in AP Psychology often depends on engaging, proactive learning strategies.

While AP Psychology is often seen as less rigorous than other AP courses such as AP Calculus or AP Physics, it still requires commitment and effective study strategies. Students who are well-prepared and proactive in their learning typically find success in the course. Whether you find it easy or challenging depends on your individual strengths and the support you receive.