Weightage of Psychology Optional Subject in UPSC Mains Exam

The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) conducts the Civil Services Examination, which is considered one of the toughest exams in India. The Mains exam is a crucial part of the selection process, and candidates have the option to choose their optional subjects. One such optional subject is Psychology, which can be a popular choice among aspirants. Below is a detailed explanation of the weightage of the Psychology optional subject in the UPSC Mains exam.

Weightage of Psychology Paper I
Paper I of Psychology in the UPSC Mains exam focuses on the fundamentals and theories of psychology. It covers a wide range of topics, including the basic concepts, research methods, and theoretical perspectives. The weightage of Paper I is as follows:

1. Section A: Foundations of Psychology
- Weightage: Approximately 15-20% of the total marks
- Key topics: Introduction to psychology, various schools of psychology, methods of psychology, research ethics, psychological testing, etc.

2. Section B: Methods of Psychology
- Weightage: Approximately 10-15% of the total marks
- Key topics: Research methods, experimental design, statistical analysis, psychometrics, etc.

3. Section C: Research Methods
- Weightage: Approximately 15-20% of the total marks
- Key topics: Types of research, experimental and non-experimental methods, observational studies, correlation, etc.

4. Section D: Development of Human Behavior
- Weightage: Approximately 15-20% of the total marks
- Key topics: Lifespan development, theories of development, cognitive and moral development, socialization, etc.

Weightage of Psychology Paper II
Paper II of Psychology in the UPSC Mains exam focuses on the application of psychological concepts in various areas. It covers topics related to social, developmental, abnormal, and applied psychology. The weightage of Paper II is as follows:

1. Section A: Social Psychology
- Weightage: Approximately 15-20% of the total marks
- Key topics: Social perception, attitudes, group dynamics, social influence, prejudice, etc.

2. Section B: Developmental Psychology
- Weightage: Approximately 15-20% of the total marks
- Key topics: Theories of development, family and peer relationships, adolescence, adulthood, aging, etc.

3. Section C: Abnormal Psychology
- Weightage: Approximately 15-20% of the total marks
- Key topics: Abnormal behavior, classification of disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia, etc.

4. Section D: Applied Psychology
- Weightage: Approximately 15-20% of the total marks
- Key topics: Industrial and organizational psychology, educational psychology, counseling psychology, health psychology, etc.

It is important for candidates to have a thorough understanding of these topics and their interconnections to score well in the Psychology optional subject.