Welcome to the comprehensive guide for IGNOU's BPCM-161: Foundations of Psychology, a crucial component of the Bachelor of Arts (Sociology) programme. This course delves into the fundamental principles, theories, and methods that underpin the scientific study of the human mind and behavior. Understanding the foundations of psychology is essential for sociology students as it provides a critical lens through which to analyze social phenomena, individual motivations within groups, and the psychological underpinnings of social structures. This course will equip you with the knowledge to comprehend the complexities of human thought, emotion, and action. Key topics covered in BPCM-161 include the history and schools of psychology, biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning, memory, motivation, emotion, personality, and abnormal psychology. These topics are not only academically stimulating but also highly relevant to a wide array of career paths. Whether you aspire to work in social work, counseling, human resources, market research, or further academic pursuits in psychology or sociology, a strong grasp of psychological foundations is invaluable. Preparing for your BPCM-161 exam is made easier with access to previous question papers. We offer a collection of 22 question papers covering both January 2026 and July 2025 exam sessions, along with their corresponding answers, providing you with ample practice material. To make the most of your study, we recommend utilizing these IGNOU question papers and other study materials effectively. Focus on understanding the core concepts rather than rote memorization. Regular revision and practice are key to success in this foundational yet impactful course.