

HSST Psychology Syllabus 2026 – Complete Guide for May 12 Exam
The Higher Secondary School Teacher (Junior) Psychology exam conducted by the Kerala Public Service Commission (Kerala PSC) is one of the most important opportunities for candidates aiming to become psychology teachers in the Higher Secondary Education Department.
Understanding the HSST Psychology syllabus, exam pattern, and preparation strategy is essential to score high marks. The HSST Psychology exam is scheduled for May 12, so candidates should start focused preparation immediately.
This guide by iPlus Training Solutions provides a quick overview of the syllabus and preparation tips.
HSST Psychology Exam Overview
| Exam Name | HSST Psychology (Junior) |
| Conducting Authority | Kerala PSC |
| Department | Higher Secondary Education |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Exam Date | May 12, 2026 |
| Core Subject Marks | 70 |
| Other Sections | 30 |
Since 70% of the marks come from psychology, candidates should focus mainly on the core psychology modules.
HSST Psychology Core Syllabus (70 Marks)
The psychology section includes 10 important modules.
1. Attention and Perception
Topics include theories of attention, psychophysics, Weber’s law, signal detection theory, illusions, colour perception, and pain perception.
2. Cognition and Memory
This module covers cognitive organization theories, problem-solving strategies, artificial intelligence, memory models, and forgetting theories such as decay and interference.
3. Intelligence
Important areas include factor theories of intelligence, Gardner’s multiple intelligence theory, PASS model, creativity theories, and emotional intelligence.
4. Learning
Includes classical conditioning, operant conditioning, insight learning, observational learning, latent learning, and neurological basis of learning.
5. Motivation and Emotion
Covers motivation theories, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, frustration-aggression theory, and major emotion theories.
6. Psychometry and Research Methodology
Includes psychological testing, reliability and validity, research methods, experimental designs, sampling techniques, and statistical analysis.
7. Personality
Topics include psychoanalytic theory, behavioural theory, trait theory, humanistic theory, and Eastern perspectives on personality.
8. Social Psychology
Important concepts include self-concept, attitudes, stereotypes, prejudice, conformity, group behaviour, aggression, and interpersonal relationships.
9. Psychopathology
Covers DSM and ICD classifications, schizophrenia, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, and substance-related disorders.
10. Applied Psychology
Includes applications of psychology in education, organizations, clinical settings, counselling, sports psychology, forensic psychology, and environmental psychology.
Other Sections in the HSST Exam
Apart from psychology, candidates must also prepare the following sections:
Teaching Aptitude (5 Marks)
Topics include teaching methods, evaluation systems, teaching aids, and learner characteristics.
Research Aptitude (5 Marks)
Includes research methods, research ethics, and thesis writing.
Indian Constitution (5 Marks)
Important areas include fundamental rights, directive principles, union and state governments, and constitutional amendments.
Social Welfare Legislations (5 Marks)
Includes laws related to social justice, environment, women, and child welfare.
Renaissance in Kerala (5 Marks)
Candidates should study social reform movements and important reformers like Sree Narayana Guru, Ayyankali, and Chattampi Swamikal.
General Knowledge & Current Affairs (5 Marks)
HSST Psychology Preparation Tips
With the May 12 exam approaching, candidates should follow a structured preparation strategy:
- Focus on core psychology modules first.
- Revise important psychologists and theories.
- Practice PSC-style multiple-choice questions.
- Study Kerala renaissance and constitution topics.
- Take regular mock tests and revision sessions.
Proper planning and consistent practice can significantly improve your chances of success.
Prepare for HSST Psychology with iPlus Training Solutions
At iPlus Training Solutions, candidates receive structured coaching designed specifically for Kerala PSC examinations.
Our training includes:
- Complete syllabus coverage
- Expert faculty guidance
- PSC-oriented study materials
- Mock tests and practice questions
If you are preparing for the HSST Psychology exam on May 12, start your preparation today with the right guidance and strategy.




