MCAT® Section 4 • Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
MCAT® Psychology & Sociology Curriculum
Master behavioral science, cognitive psychology, social stratification, and research methodology. 59 questions in 95 minutes evaluating psychological and social determinants of health.
Biological Bases of Behavior
- Sensory Processing & Perception (Vision, Audition, Somatosensation)
- Brain Anatomy, Neurotransmitters & Endocrine Influences
- Sleep, Circadian Rhythms & States of Consciousness
- Learning, Memory Formation & Neuroplasticity
Cognition, Emotion & Personality
- Cognitive Development (Piaget, Vygotsky)
- Language Acquisition Theories
- Theories of Emotion (James-Lange, Cannon-Bard, Schachter-Singer)
- Stress, Coping Mechanisms & Mental Health Disorders
Social Psychology & Interaction
- Attitude Formation & Behavioral Change
- Self-Concept, Social Identity & Attribution Theory
- Group Dynamics, Conformity, Compliance & Obedience
- Prejudice, Discrimination, Stereotypes & Stigma
Sociological Theories & Disparities
- Major Sociological Frameworks (Functionalism, Conflict Theory, Symbolic Interactionism)
- Demographic Shifts & Population Dynamics
- Social Stratification, Socioeconomic Status & Healthcare Disparities
- Institutional Factors in Health Outcomes