An original Thinka practice paper modelled on the structure and difficulty of the Jun 2022 Pearson Edexcel A Level Psychology (9PS0) paper. Not affiliated with or reproduced from Pearson.
Paper 1: Foundations in Psychology
Answer all questions from Sections A, B, C, D, and E.
19 PastPaper.question · 82 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Describe one strength of Milgram's agency theory of obedience.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
One strength of Milgram's agency theory is that it is supported by empirical evidence from his own laboratory experiments. For example, in his baseline study, 65% of participants administered a fatal 450-volt electric shock to a learner when ordered to do so by an experimenter. This supports the theory because it demonstrates that individuals will suppress their own moral constraints and shift from an autonomous state to an agentic state where they believe the authority figure is responsible for their actions.
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for identifying a strength of the agency theory (e.g., supported by empirical research or explains real-world events like the Holocaust). 1 mark for describing the evidence or real-world application in detail (e.g., citing the 65% obedience rate in Milgram's baseline experiment). 1 mark for explaining how this supporting detail validates the theory (e.g., showing how it demonstrates the transition from an autonomous to an agentic state).
PastPaper.question 2 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
In a cognitive experiment on the phonological loop, participants recalled lists of short words and lists of long words. The mean number of short words recalled was 8.0, and the mean number of long words recalled was 4.6. Calculate the percentage decrease in the mean number of words recalled from short words to long words. Express your answer to two decimal places. Show your working.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
First, calculate the absolute decrease in the mean number of words recalled: 8.0 - 4.6 = 3.4. Next, calculate the percentage decrease by dividing this difference by the original mean (for short words): 3.4 / 8.0 = 0.425. Finally, multiply by 100 to convert to a percentage: 0.425 * 100 = 42.50%.
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for calculating the correct difference in means (3.4). 1 mark for showing the correct formula or working: ((8.0 - 4.6) / 8.0) * 100. 1 mark for the correct final percentage of 42.50% (accept 42.5%).
PastPaper.question 3 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Explain how neurotransmitters transmit messages across the synaptic gap.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
First, an electrical impulse known as an action potential travels down the axon of the presynaptic neuron and reaches the terminal button, which triggers synaptic vesicles to release neurotransmitters. Second, these neurotransmitters diffuse across the synaptic gap. Third, they bind to specialized receptor sites on the postsynaptic membrane, which converts the chemical signal back into an electrical impulse.
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for describing the release of neurotransmitters from vesicles in the presynaptic terminal due to an action potential. 1 mark for explaining that the neurotransmitters diffuse across the synaptic gap. 1 mark for explaining that they bind to specific receptors on the postsynaptic membrane to trigger a new electrical response.
PastPaper.question 4 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Explain how systematic desensitisation uses classical conditioning to treat a phobia.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Systematic desensitisation is based on classical conditioning and relies on the principle of counterconditioning, where a new response of relaxation is conditioned to replace the old response of fear. The therapist first teaches the client deep relaxation techniques, and together they construct an anxiety hierarchy of situations involving the phobic stimulus. The client is then gradually exposed to these situations, pairing the phobic object with relaxation until the fear response is extinguished.
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for identifying the concept of counterconditioning or reciprocal inhibition (replacing fear with relaxation). 1 mark for describing the preparation phase, such as teaching relaxation techniques or creating an anxiety hierarchy. 1 mark for explaining how gradual exposure pairs the stimulus with relaxation to extinguish the fear response.
PastPaper.question 5 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Describe one weakness of Bartlett's theory of reconstructive memory.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
One weakness of Bartlett's theory of reconstructive memory is that his supporting research lacked scientific rigour. For instance, in his 'War of the Ghosts' study, Bartlett did not use standardized instructions for all participants, and the time intervals at which participants were asked to recall the story were highly inconsistent and uncontrolled. This lack of standardization means his findings are less reliable and it is difficult to confidently establish cause-and-effect relationships.
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for identifying a weakness (e.g., lack of scientific rigour, subjective data analysis, or overemphasis on memory inaccuracies). 1 mark for illustrating this weakness using Bartlett's research (e.g., explaining that the intervals of recall in the 'War of the Ghosts' study were not standardized). 1 mark for explaining why this reduces the validity or reliability of the theory.
PastPaper.question 6 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
A researcher observed obedience in a public area. Out of 80 male participants observed, 32 obeyed a 'Do Not Enter' sign. Out of 100 female participants observed, 64 obeyed the sign. Calculate the ratio of males who disobeyed to females who disobeyed. Simplify this ratio to its simplest integer form. Show your working.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
First, calculate the number of males who disobeyed: 80 total - 32 obeyed = 48 disobeyed. Next, calculate the number of females who disobeyed: 100 total - 64 obeyed = 36 disobeyed. Set up the ratio of males to females: 48 : 36. To simplify, find the greatest common divisor, which is 12. Divide both sides by 12: 48 / 12 = 4 and 36 / 12 = 3. The simplified ratio is 4 : 3.
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for calculating the correct number of males and females who disobeyed (48 males and 36 females). 1 mark for expressing the initial ratio correctly as 48 : 36. 1 mark for the final simplified ratio in its lowest integer terms (4 : 3).
PastPaper.question 7 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Explain how positive reinforcement differs from negative reinforcement, using examples for each.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Positive reinforcement involves presenting a pleasant stimulus following a desired behavior to increase the likelihood of that behavior being repeated, such as giving a child praise for doing their homework. In contrast, negative reinforcement involves removing an unpleasant stimulus following a desired behavior to also increase the likelihood of that behavior being repeated, such as turning off a loud buzzer once a driver buckles their seatbelt.
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for defining positive reinforcement with an appropriate example (e.g., adding a reward to increase behavior). 1 mark for defining negative reinforcement with an appropriate example (e.g., removing something unpleasant to increase behavior). 1 mark for explicitly distinguishing between the two concepts (e.g., stating that positive reinforcement introduces a stimulus while negative reinforcement takes one away, though both increase behavior).
PastPaper.question 8 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Describe one difference between positron emission tomography (PET) scans and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) as ways of studying the brain.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
One difference is that fMRI is entirely non-invasive, whereas PET scanning is an invasive procedure. An fMRI scan uses magnetic fields and radio waves to measure changes in blood oxygenation levels in the brain, presenting no physical danger. In contrast, a PET scan requires the injection of a radioactive tracer into the patient's bloodstream so the scanner can detect metabolic activity, which exposes the participant to a small amount of radiation.
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for identifying a clear difference (e.g., level of invasiveness, what is being measured, or temporal/spatial resolution). 1 mark for describing how this feature applies to fMRI (e.g., fMRI uses magnetic fields to non-invasively measure blood flow). 1 mark for describing how this feature applies to PET scans (e.g., PET requires injection of a radioactive tracer to measure glucose metabolism).
PastPaper.question 9 · Mathematical Calculation
3 PastPaper.marks
In a mock replication of Milgram's study on obedience, a researcher tested 40 participants. Out of these, 26 participants fully obeyed by administering the maximum shock of 450V. Calculate the percentage of participants who did not fully obey the researcher. Show your workings and round your answer to one decimal place.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
1. Calculate the number of participants who did not fully obey: \( 40 - 26 = 14 \) participants.
2. Calculate the percentage of these participants relative to the total: \( \left( \frac{14}{40} \right) \times 100 = 35 \% \).
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for calculating the number of disobedient participants: - \( 40 - 26 = 14 \)
Award 1 mark for showing the correct percentage formula/working: - \( \left( \frac{14}{40} \right) \times 100 \)
Award 1 mark for the correct final answer: - 35% (accept 35 or 35.0%)
PastPaper.question 10 · Short Answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Describe the function of the phonological loop in Baddeley and Hitch's (1974) Working Memory Model.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The phonological loop is a component of working memory that processes sound and verbal information. It is divided into two sub-systems: the phonological store (which acts as an 'inner ear' by holding speech-based information for 1-2 seconds) and the articulatory control system (which acts as an 'inner voice' by repeating verbal information to prevent it from decaying, known as maintenance rehearsal).
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for identifying that it processes and temporarily stores auditory/verbal information (AO1). Award 1 mark for describing the function of the phonological store / 'inner ear' (holds sound-based info) (AO1). Award 1 mark for describing the function of the articulatory control process / 'inner voice' (rehearses information) (AO1).
PastPaper.question 11 · Mathematical Calculation
3 PastPaper.marks
A biological psychologist measured the reaction times (in milliseconds) of 8 participants before and after consuming a caffeinated drink. The differences (decrease in reaction time) for each participant were: 20ms, 30ms, 25ms, 20ms, 40ms, 25ms, 15ms, and 20ms. Calculate the median decrease in reaction time for this group. Show your workings.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
1. Put the scores in chronological/numerical order: 15, 20, 20, 20, 25, 25, 30, 40
2. Identify the middle values. Since there are 8 scores (even number), the median is the mean of the 4th and 5th values: 4th value = 20 5th value = 25
Award 1 mark for ordering the dataset correctly: - 15, 20, 20, 20, 25, 25, 30, 40
Award 1 mark for showing the formula/method to find the midpoint of an even dataset: - \( \frac{20 + 25}{2} \)
Award 1 mark for the correct final answer: - 22.5ms (accept 22.5)
PastPaper.question 12 · Short Answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Explain how a child might develop a phobia of dogs using classical conditioning. You must identify the unconditioned stimulus (UCS), conditioned stimulus (CS), and conditioned response (CR) in your answer.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
According to classical conditioning, the child initially has an unconditioned reflex where a painful stimulus such as being bitten by a dog acts as an Unconditioned Stimulus (UCS), producing an Unconditioned Response (UCR) of fear. The dog is initially a Neutral Stimulus (NS). When the child associates the dog (NS/CS) with the painful bite (UCS), the dog becomes a Conditioned Stimulus (CS). Eventually, the dog alone triggers the Conditioned Response (CR) of fear/phobia.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for identifying the Unconditioned Stimulus (UCS) (e.g., being bitten/attacked or a loud bark) and its association with fear (AO2). Award 1 mark for explaining the pairing process where the dog becomes the Conditioned Stimulus (CS) (AO2). Award 1 mark for identifying the Conditioned Response (CR) as fear/phobia of the dog alone (AO2).
PastPaper.question 13 · Short Answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Explain one strength and one weakness of Milgram's agency theory of obedience.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Strength: Milgram's own research supports the theory, as 65% of participants administered the maximum 450V shock when instructed by an authority figure, demonstrating they shifted into an agentic state. Weakness: The theory fails to explain individual differences, as 35% of participants resisted the authority figure and did not enter the agentic state, meaning the theory cannot fully predict who will obey.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for explaining a valid strength (e.g., supported by Milgram's laboratory findings or explains real-world historical obedience such as the Holocaust) (AO3). Award 1 mark for explaining a valid weakness (e.g., doesn't account for individual differences, or lacks a biological explanation, or the 'agentic shift' is difficult to measure directly) (AO3). Award 1 mark for logical development/elaboration of either the strength or the weakness (AO3).
PastPaper.question 14 · Mathematical Calculation
3 PastPaper.marks
In a cognitive experiment testing the effect of word length on memory recall, participants in Group A (short words) recalled a mean of 12.5 words, while participants in Group B (long words) recalled a mean of 8.0 words. Calculate the percentage decrease in the mean number of words recalled from Group A to Group B. Show your workings.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
1. Find the difference between the two means: \( 12.5 - 8.0 = 4.5 \)
2. Divide the difference by the original group mean (Group A): \( \frac{4.5}{12.5} = 0.36 \)
3. Multiply by 100 to get the percentage decrease: \( 0.36 \times 100 = 36 \% \)
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for calculating the correct difference between the means: - \( 12.5 - 8.0 = 4.5 \)
Award 1 mark for showing the correct percentage change formula using the baseline of Group A: - \( \left( \frac{4.5}{12.5} \right) \times 100 \)
Award 1 mark for the correct final answer: - 36% (accept 36)
PastPaper.question 15 · essay
8 PastPaper.marks
Evaluate Milgram’s agency theory as an explanation of obedience. (8 marks)
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PastPaper.workedSolution
AO1: Agency theory proposes that people operate in two states: the autonomous state, where they act independently and take responsibility for their actions, and the agentic state, where they act as agents for an authority figure and transfer responsibility to them. The transition between these states is called the agentic shift, which is triggered when an individual perceives someone as having legitimate authority. When ordered to act against their moral code, individuals experience moral strain, but are kept in the agentic state by binding factors such as fear of disrupting the social situation or anxiety about disobedience. AO3: The theory is supported by Milgram’s (1963) baseline experiment where 65% of participants administered a lethal 450V shock when ordered by an experimenter, demonstrating the agentic shift as participants often verbally shifted responsibility to the experimenter. However, the theory cannot explain why 35% of participants resisted authority and remained autonomous, showing it fails to account for individual differences such as personality traits like the Authoritarian Personality. Furthermore, Social Impact Theory offers a better explanation by focusing on the strength, immediacy, and number of sources, which is a more quantifiable and predictable model of social influence. Nonetheless, the theory has high application to real-world events, helping to explain how normal people participated in historical atrocities like the Holocaust by claiming they were just following orders.
PastPaper.markingScheme
AO1: 4 marks, AO3: 4 marks. Level 4 (7-8 marks): Demonstrates accurate and thorough knowledge and understanding of agency theory (AO1). Evaluation is developed, balanced, and shows a logical chain of reasoning (AO3). Level 3 (5-6 marks): Demonstrates mostly accurate knowledge and understanding of agency theory (AO1). Evaluation is mostly developed with some logical reasoning (AO3). Level 2 (3-4 marks): Demonstrates limited or general knowledge of agency theory (AO1). Evaluation is basic with some relevance (AO3). Level 1 (1-2 marks): Demonstrates isolated elements of knowledge (AO1). Evaluation is superficial or absent (AO3). Level 0: No rewardable material.
PastPaper.question 16 · essay
8 PastPaper.marks
Evaluate the Working Memory Model (Baddeley and Hitch, 1974) as an explanation of short-term memory. (8 marks)
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PastPaper.workedSolution
AO1: The Working Memory Model (WMM) describes short-term memory as an active, multi-component processor. The Central Executive acts as the control system, directing attention and allocating tasks to three slave systems. The Phonological Loop processes auditory information and is divided into the phonological store (inner ear) and the articulatory rehearsal system (inner voice). The Visuospatial Sketchpad processes visual and spatial information (inner eye). The Episodic Buffer integrates information from the slave systems, long-term memory, and perception into a coherent, chronological mental episode. AO3: A strength of the model is that it is supported by dual-task research (e.g., Baddeley et al.), which demonstrates that performing two visual tasks simultaneously is significantly harder than performing one visual and one verbal task, confirming the separate capacity limits of the visuospatial sketchpad and phonological loop. It is also supported by clinical case studies, such as patient KF, who had impaired verbal short-term memory but intact visual processing, validating the separation of the slave systems. However, a limitation is that the Central Executive is vague and poorly defined, with critics arguing its exact capacity and role are not fully understood. Additionally, the WMM only explains short-term processing and does not provide a comprehensive model for how memories are transferred to long-term storage.
PastPaper.markingScheme
AO1: 4 marks, AO3: 4 marks. Level 4 (7-8 marks): Demonstrates accurate and thorough knowledge of the Working Memory Model (AO1). Evaluation is developed, balanced, and shows a logical chain of reasoning (AO3). Level 3 (5-6 marks): Demonstrates mostly accurate knowledge of the Working Memory Model (AO1). Evaluation is mostly developed with some logical reasoning (AO3). Level 2 (3-4 marks): Demonstrates limited knowledge of the Working Memory Model (AO1). Evaluation is basic with some relevance (AO3). Level 1 (1-2 marks): Demonstrates isolated elements of knowledge (AO1). Evaluation is superficial or absent (AO3). Level 0: No rewardable material.
PastPaper.question 17 · essay
8 PastPaper.marks
Assess the role of brain structure (specifically the prefrontal cortex and amygdala) as an explanation of aggression. (8 marks)
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PastPaper.workedSolution
AO1: Brain structure explanations of aggression focus on specific areas of the brain, particularly the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex. The amygdala, part of the limbic system, is responsible for processing emotions, assessing threat, and triggering the fight-or-flight response. High reactivity or structural differences in the amygdala can lead to an exaggerated fear or anger response, increasing aggressive outbursts. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is responsible for executive control, decision-making, and inhibiting impulsive behaviors. It normally acts as a regulator to suppress the emotional impulses generated by the amygdala. A lack of structure or weak connectivity between these two regions means the PFC cannot effectively regulate aggression. AO3: This explanation is supported by brain imaging research, such as Raine et al. (1997), who used PET scans to find that murderers pleading not guilty by reason of insanity (NGRI) had lower metabolic activity in their prefrontal cortex and asymmetrical activity in the amygdala compared to healthy controls. However, a major limitation is that neuroimaging research is correlational, meaning we cannot conclude whether brain abnormalities cause aggressive behavior or if external factors (like childhood trauma or substance abuse) caused both the brain changes and the aggression. Additionally, this approach is biologically reductionist as it simplifies a complex social behavior down to physical structures, ignoring environmental influences such as Social Learning Theory, which shows aggression can be learned through modeling. Nevertheless, understanding these biological mechanisms has practical application in developing targeted cognitive therapies or neuroimaging screenings to help identify and support at-risk individuals.
PastPaper.markingScheme
AO1: 4 marks, AO3: 4 marks. Level 4 (7-8 marks): Demonstrates accurate and thorough knowledge of the role of the PFC and amygdala in aggression (AO1). Evaluation is developed, balanced, and shows a logical chain of reasoning (AO3). Level 3 (5-6 marks): Demonstrates mostly accurate knowledge of the PFC and amygdala (AO1). Evaluation is mostly developed with some logical reasoning (AO3). Level 2 (3-4 marks): Demonstrates limited knowledge of brain structures and aggression (AO1). Evaluation is basic with some relevance (AO3). Level 1 (1-2 marks): Demonstrates isolated elements of knowledge (AO1). Evaluation is superficial or absent (AO3). Level 0: No rewardable material.
PastPaper.question 18 · essay
8 PastPaper.marks
Evaluate classical conditioning as an explanation of human behavior. (8 marks)
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PastPaper.workedSolution
AO1: Classical conditioning is a theory of learning by association. An unconditioned stimulus (UCS) naturally triggers an involuntary, unconditioned response (UCR). A neutral stimulus (NS) that does not produce this response is repeatedly paired with the UCS. Over time, the individual associates the NS with the UCS, and the NS becomes a conditioned stimulus (CS). The CS alone then produces a conditioned response (CR). Key principles include stimulus generalisation, where similar stimuli trigger the CR, and extinction, where the conditioned response decreases if the CS is repeatedly presented without the UCS. AO3: A key strength of classical conditioning is its strong empirical support, such as Watson and Rayner's (1920) Little Albert study, which demonstrated that a fear of white rats could be conditioned in an infant by pairing the rat with a loud noise, illustrating how human phobias can develop through association. However, this study was a single case study with severe ethical and methodological weaknesses, limiting its generalisability. Another strength is its practical application; classical conditioning principles have been used to develop highly effective therapies like systematic desensitisation and flooding to treat phobias. A limitation is that classical conditioning is highly reductionist and deterministic, as it reduces complex human behavior to simple stimulus-response links and ignores internal cognitive processes or the role of free will in determining behavior.
PastPaper.markingScheme
AO1: 4 marks, AO3: 4 marks. Level 4 (7-8 marks): Demonstrates accurate and thorough knowledge of classical conditioning (AO1). Evaluation is developed, balanced, and shows a logical chain of reasoning (AO3). Level 3 (5-6 marks): Demonstrates mostly accurate knowledge of classical conditioning (AO1). Evaluation is mostly developed with some logical reasoning (AO3). Level 2 (3-4 marks): Demonstrates limited knowledge of classical conditioning (AO1). Evaluation is basic with some relevance (AO3). Level 1 (1-2 marks): Demonstrates isolated elements of knowledge (AO1). Evaluation is superficial or absent (AO3). Level 0: No rewardable material.
AO1: Bartlett's reconstructive memory theory proposes that memory is not an exact, passive recording of past events, but an active process of reconstruction. We use schemas, which are mental frameworks of knowledge, beliefs, and expectations derived from our cultural and personal experiences, to organize and interpret information. When we retrieve a memory, we use these schemas to fill in any missing gaps, which can lead to systematic distortions. Common errors include rationalisation, where we alter details to make them conform to our existing schemas, and omission, where we leave out details that do not fit our schemas. AO3: Reconstructive memory theory is supported by Bartlett's (1932) War of the Ghosts study, which showed that British participants recalled a Native American story with significant changes (e.g., transforming hunting seals to fishing) to match their cultural schemas. However, a major weakness of Bartlett's research was its lack of scientific rigour, as he used unsystematic testing intervals and did not control the environmental conditions, reducing its reliability. Despite this, the theory has high ecological validity and real-world application, particularly in showing why eyewitness testimonies are often unreliable and can be biased by leading questions or post-event information (as supported by Loftus and Palmer). Additionally, while it explains qualitative memory changes, it does not explain the physical architecture or storage capacity of memory systems, unlike the Multi-Store Model or Working Memory Model.
PastPaper.markingScheme
AO1: 4 marks, AO3: 4 marks. Level 4 (7-8 marks): Demonstrates accurate and thorough knowledge of reconstructive memory theory (AO1). Evaluation is developed, balanced, and shows a logical chain of reasoning (AO3). Level 3 (5-6 marks): Demonstrates mostly accurate knowledge of reconstructive memory (AO1). Evaluation is mostly developed with some logical reasoning (AO3). Level 2 (3-4 marks): Demonstrates limited knowledge of reconstructive memory (AO1). Evaluation is basic with some relevance (AO3). Level 1 (1-2 marks): Demonstrates isolated elements of knowledge (AO1). Evaluation is superficial or absent (AO3). Level 0: No rewardable material.
Paper 2: Applications of Psychology
Answer all questions in Section A, and all questions from one of the three options in Section B.
14 PastPaper.question · 95 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Describe how clinicians use classification systems, such as the DSM-5, to diagnose mental health disorders.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Clinicians use classification systems by collecting symptom data, comparing symptoms to diagnostic criteria, and ruling out other conditions.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for describing the gathering of clinical information (e.g., symptoms, severity, history). Award 1 mark for describing the comparison against diagnostic criteria (e.g., matching symptoms to DSM-5 lists). Award 1 mark for identifying the inclusion of duration criteria or ruling out of differential diagnoses.
PastPaper.question 2 · short_answer
4 PastPaper.marks
Liam has recently been diagnosed with schizophrenia. He reports hearing voices that mock him and believes that his neighbours are spying on him to steal his thoughts. Liam's psychiatrist has suggested treating him with atypical antipsychotic medication. Explain how atypical antipsychotic medication would work to treat Liam's schizophrenia, with reference to the scenario.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Atypical antipsychotics block dopamine D2 receptors to reduce positive symptoms (hearing voices/delusions) and also affect serotonin (5-HT2A) receptors to balance dopamine, reducing negative symptoms and side effects.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for identifying that atypical antipsychotics block dopamine D2 receptors. Award 1 mark for linking dopamine blocking to Liam's positive symptoms (hearing voices/hallucinations or delusions of being spied on). Award 1 mark for explaining that atypical antipsychotics also affect serotonin receptors (e.g., 5-HT2A). Award 1 mark for applying this to Liam's wider symptom management or reduction of side effects to improve compliance.
PastPaper.question 3 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Explain one strength and one weakness of using secondary data, such as meta-analyses, in research into clinical psychology.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Strength: Large sample sizes and high generalisability. Weakness: Lack of control over original data quality/methodology leading to potential bias.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for identifying a strength of secondary data (e.g., large sample size, cost-effective, ethical advantages). Award 1 mark for explaining/elaborating this strength in a clinical context (e.g., makes conclusions about treatments or prevalence rates more generalisable). Award 1 mark for identifying and explaining a weakness (e.g., lack of control over original research methods, publication bias in meta-analysis, or mismatch in diagnostic criteria across historical studies).
PastPaper.question 4 · short_answer
4 PastPaper.marks
Charlotte is suffering from anorexia nervosa. Her therapist is considering using Family-Based Treatment (FBT) or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT-E) to help her. Compare FBT and CBT-E as treatments for anorexia nervosa.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
FBT involves the family and parental control over eating, while CBT-E is individual and focuses on restructuring cognitive distortions. Both are psychological, non-pharmacological therapies aiming for weight restoration. FBT is better for younger adolescents, whereas CBT-E is more suited to older, independent individuals.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for identifying a difference in format/delivery (family-based vs individual cognitive restructuring). Award 1 mark for identifying a similarity (both are psychological therapies aiming to change eating patterns/restore weight without drugs). Award 1 mark for explaining the difference in developmental suitability (FBT for younger adolescents/dependent patients, CBT-E for older/more independent patients). Award 1 mark for a balanced comparative conclusion or further elaboration of either difference/similarity.
PastPaper.question 5 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Officer Davies is investigating a robbery. He wants to use the Cognitive Interview technique to interview an eyewitness, Sarah. Explain how Officer Davies can use two specific components of the Cognitive Interview to improve the accuracy of Sarah’s recall.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Mental reinstatement of context (revisiting the environment/feelings) and report everything (recalling all details to trigger memory) can be applied.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for identifying a relevant component of the Cognitive Interview (e.g., context reinstatement, report everything, change order, change perspective). Award 1 mark for applying this component directly to Sarah's recall of the robbery. Award 1 mark for applying a second component of the Cognitive Interview to the scenario.
PastPaper.question 6 · short_answer
4 PastPaper.marks
Evaluate the biological explanation of crime that suggests brain dysfunction, such as damage to the prefrontal cortex or amygdala, leads to criminal behaviour.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Strength: Supporting evidence (e.g., Raine et al. showing prefrontal cortex differences). Weakness: Reductionist (ignores social factors) and deterministic (challenges criminal responsibility).
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for identifying a strength (e.g., scientific/objective evidence from brain scans like PET/fMRI). Award 1 mark for supporting this strength with a relevant study or empirical finding (e.g., Raine et al., 1997). Award 1 mark for identifying a weakness (e.g., reductionism, ignoring environmental/social learning factors). Award 1 mark for explaining the weakness (e.g., why neglecting social factors or the deterministic nature of biological criminology limits the explanation's validity).
PastPaper.question 7 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
Amelie spent her first two years in an understaffed orphanage with very little individual attention before being adopted. Explain, using psychological research into institutionalisation, the potential long-term cognitive and social effects of this early deprivation on Amelie.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Cognitive effects include intellectual deficit/lower IQ (especially if adopted late). Social effects include disinhibited attachment (undifferentiated friendliness) and peer difficulties, supported by Rutter's Romanian Orphan research.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for explaining potential cognitive effects (e.g., lower IQ, cognitive impairment, or developmental delay) linked to institutional deprivation. Award 1 mark for explaining potential social/emotional effects (e.g., disinhibited attachment, lack of fear of strangers, peer issues). Award 1 mark for linking these effects to relevant research findings (e.g., Rutter's ERA study showing the impact of adoption age on recovery).
PastPaper.question 8 · short_answer
4 PastPaper.marks
Describe how learning theories (classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and social learning theory) can explain how an individual might start and maintain a smoking addiction.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
SLT explains starting via role models/vicarious reinforcement. Operant conditioning explains maintenance through positive (nicotine rush) and negative (avoiding withdrawal) reinforcement. Classical conditioning explains maintenance through conditioned environmental cues triggering cravings.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for explaining how Social Learning Theory accounts for the initiation of smoking (e.g., observation, imitation, vicarious reinforcement of role models). Award 1 mark for explaining how operant conditioning accounts for maintenance through positive reinforcement (e.g., nicotine reward/pleasure). Award 1 mark for explaining how operant conditioning accounts for maintenance through negative reinforcement (e.g., smoking to avoid unpleasant withdrawal symptoms). Award 1 mark for explaining how classical conditioning accounts for maintenance/relapse through cue reactivity (e.g., environmental cues paired with smoking triggering cravings).
PastPaper.question 9 · Short answer and scenario diagnostic application
3 PastPaper.marks
Dr Aris is a clinical psychologist treating Elena, who has schizophrenia. During a session, Elena mentions she is experiencing auditory hallucinations telling her to harm herself. She begs Dr Aris not to share this information with anyone.
Explain how Dr Aris should respond to Elena's request, with reference to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) guidelines. (3 marks)
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Dr Aris must balance the HCPC standard of maintaining confidentiality with the standard of acting in the best interests of service users, which includes keeping them safe from harm.
- **AO1 (1 mark):** State that under HCPC standards, confidentiality must be maintained but can be overridden/breached if there is a risk of harm to the service user or others. - **AO2 (1 mark):** Apply this to Elena, noting that her auditory hallucinations telling her to harm herself constitute an immediate risk of self-harm. - **AO2 (1 mark):** Explain the appropriate action Dr Aris must take, such as explaining the limits of confidentiality to Elena and contacting her psychiatric team or GP to ensure her safety.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Up to 3 marks for application of HCPC guidelines to the scenario.
- **1 mark** for identifying/explaining the HCPC standard on confidentiality and its limitations (AO1). - **1 mark** for applying the limitation of confidentiality to Elena's specific risk of self-harm (AO2). - **1 mark** for describing the appropriate clinical action Dr Aris must take in accordance with HCPC guidelines (AO2).
**Acceptable responses include:** - Reference to HCPC Standard 2 (Communicate fully and effectively) or Standard 7 (Report concerns about safety). - Explicitly mentioning breaching confidentiality due to public interest/safety of the client.
**Reject:** - Answers suggesting complete confidentiality must be maintained regardless of safety risks.
PastPaper.question 10 · Short answer and scenario diagnostic application
4 PastPaper.marks
Marcus witnessed a bank robbery where a perpetrator pointed a silver handgun at the cashier. When interviewed by the police, Marcus was able to describe the handgun in detail but was unable to give an accurate description of the perpetrator's facial features.
Explain Marcus's recall of the event using psychological research into weapon focus. (4 marks)
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Marcus's memory of the event can be explained using weapon focus research:
- **AO1 (1 mark):** Define weapon focus as a phenomenon where witnesses focus on a weapon, which reduces their ability to recall peripheral details such as the suspect's face. - **AO2 (1 mark):** Apply this to Marcus, explaining that his attention was focused on the silver handgun, enabling him to describe it in detail while failing to recall the perpetrator's face. - **AO1 (1 mark):** Explain an underlying mechanism of weapon focus, such as the arousal/threat hypothesis (e.g., Yerkes-Dodson Law where high anxiety narrows attention) or the unusualness hypothesis (unusual objects draw cognitive resources). - **AO2 (1 mark):** Link the mechanism to Marcus's scenario, stating that either the extreme fear of the handgun narrowed his focus, or the unexpected nature of a gun in a bank captured his attention, leaving fewer cognitive resources to process facial features.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Up to 4 marks for explaining Marcus's recall using weapon focus research.
- **1 mark** for defining weapon focus/attentional narrowing (AO1). - **1 mark** for applying the definition of weapon focus to Marcus's recall of the gun and failure to recall the face (AO2). - **1 mark** for explaining the cognitive/physiological mechanism (arousal or unusualness) of weapon focus (AO1). - **1 mark** for applying this mechanism to explain why Marcus's cognitive capacity was directed away from facial features (AO2).
**Acceptable responses include:** - Reference to Loftus et al. (1987) eye-tracking studies. - Reference to Easterbrook's cue utilization hypothesis.
**Reject:** - Generic descriptions of stress/anxiety that do not reference weapon focus specifically.
PastPaper.question 11 · essay
15 PastPaper.marks
Dr Aris is a clinical psychologist working in an outpatient mental health clinic. He is reviewing the treatment plans for several patients newly diagnosed with schizophrenia. He is deciding whether to prescribe atypical antipsychotic medication (such as Olanzapine) or to refer them for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for psychosis (CBTp).
Evaluate atypical antipsychotics and CBTp as treatments for schizophrenia. You must refer to Dr Aris's decision in your response.
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The response should provide a balanced evaluation of atypical antipsychotics and CBTp, directly applied to Dr Aris's decision-making process. Candidates should demonstrate detailed knowledge of how both treatments work (AO1), apply this knowledge to the scenario (AO2), and critically evaluate their strengths, limitations, and relative effectiveness (AO3).
Key Knowledge Points (AO1): - Atypical antipsychotics (e.g. Olanzapine, Clozapine) work on dopamine and serotonin receptors to treat both positive and negative symptoms. - Atypical antipsychotics have lower motor side-effect profiles but can cause metabolic issues. - CBTp helps patients identify, reality-test, and challenge cognitive distortions (delusions) and cope with hallucinations. - CBTp typically occurs over a structured course of sessions (e.g., 16 sessions) and involves collaborative empirical testing.
Key Application Points (AO2): - Dr Aris must consider patient compliance; outpatients are unsupervised, meaning side-effect profiles of Olanzapine might lead to non-compliance. - Dr Aris must assess symptom severity; patients with high avolition might struggle to engage with CBTp, requiring initial medication. - Dr Aris needs to balance short-term stabilization (drugs) with long-term relapse prevention skills (CBTp).
Key Evaluation Points (AO3): - Meltzer (2012) supports atypical antipsychotics, showing effectiveness in treatment-resistant cases. - Side effects of atypical drugs (e.g. agranulocytosis, metabolic syndrome) limit utility compared to CBTp which has no physical side effects. - Tarrier (2005) or NICE guidelines support CBTp's long-term effectiveness in reducing relapse rates. - CBTp is limited by cost, therapist availability, and the requirement for high cognitive capacity and motivation from patients.
- Level 1 (1–3 marks): Demonstrates isolated or superficial knowledge (AO1). Minimal or absent application to Dr Aris (AO2). Evaluation is thin, generic, or lacks clinical accuracy (AO3). - Level 2 (4–6 marks): Demonstrates some accurate psychological knowledge of antipsychotics and/or CBTp (AO1). Limited application to the outpatient/Dr Aris context (AO2). Evaluation contains basic strengths/weaknesses (AO3). - Level 3 (7–9 marks): Demonstrates good knowledge of both treatments (AO1). Applied appropriately to Dr Aris's decisions, though some aspects may be stronger than others (AO2). Evaluation is present with some research evidence (AO3). - Level 4 (10–12 marks): Demonstrates detailed, accurate knowledge of atypical drugs and CBTp (AO1). Consistent and clear application to the scenario throughout (AO2). Balanced evaluation using appropriate evidence/arguments (AO3). - Level 5 (13–15 marks): Demonstrates sophisticated, comprehensive, and highly precise knowledge of both treatments (AO1). Excellent, seamless application to Dr Aris's clinical dilemmas (AO2). Highly critical, well-structured, and balanced evaluation showing deep understanding of the biological vs. psychological debate (AO3).
PastPaper.question 12 · essay
15 PastPaper.marks
Governor Miller is the head of a category B prison housing male offenders with a history of violent crime. He wants to introduce a new rehabilitation programme to reduce rates of institutional aggression and post-release reoffending. He is comparing Token Economy Programmes (TEPs) and Anger Management programmes.
Evaluate the use of Token Economy Programmes (TEPs) and Anger Management programmes to manage and rehabilitate offenders. You must refer to Governor Miller's prison in your response.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The response must evaluate both TEPs (behavioral modification) and Anger Management (cognitive therapy) in terms of their theoretical basis, efficacy, cost, and long-term rehabilitation rates, applying these factors directly to Governor Miller's violent category B prison context.
Key Knowledge Points (AO1): - TEPs are based on operant conditioning: desirable behaviors are rewarded with secondary reinforcers (tokens) exchangeable for primary reinforcers. - Anger Management (Novaco) involves three stages: cognitive preparation, skill acquisition, and application practice. - Aim of TEPs is external behavioral control; aim of Anger Management is internal emotional regulation.
Key Application Points (AO2): - Governor Miller can use TEPs as a cost-effective, easily administered method to manage short-term institutional violence among category B inmates. - Anger Management is highly applicable to Governor Miller's violent cohort as it addresses cognitive errors and threat appraisals that lead to aggression. - Governor Miller must consider post-release reoffending; TEPs are vulnerable to extinction outside the institution, whereas Anger Management teaches portable, long-term skills.
Key Evaluation Points (AO3): - Hobbs and Holt (1976) or Allyon and Azrin (1968) support the short-term efficacy of TEPs in controlled environments. - TEPs lack long-term generalizability once reinforcement stops (extinction), and have ethical concerns regarding the manipulation of basic rights as primary reinforcers. - Ireland (2000) or Feindler et al. (1984) support Anger Management's success in reducing impulsive aggression. - Anger Management is limited because it is expensive, requires specialist staff, is demanding for unmotivated prisoners, and does not address instrumental (non-emotional) violence.
- Level 1 (1–3 marks): Demonstrates basic, isolated knowledge of TEPs or Anger Management (AO1). Minimal attempt to relate to Governor Miller's prison context (AO2). Evaluation is descriptive rather than critical (AO3). - Level 2 (4–6 marks): Explains both treatments with some accuracy (AO1). Application to Governor Miller's violent category B prisoners is present but superficial (AO2). Provides some basic comparative evaluations (AO3). - Level 3 (7–9 marks): Good knowledge of TEP mechanisms and Anger Management stages (AO1). Appropriate and clear application to the scenario, addressing institutional management and/or post-release reoffending (AO2). Evaluation includes relevant research/evidence (AO3). - Level 4 (10–12 marks): Detailed, accurate knowledge of both behavioral and cognitive techniques (AO1). Effective, sustained application to Governor Miller's decisions, comparing costs, staff requirements, and inmate type (AO2). Balanced evaluation using appropriate evidence/arguments (AO3). - Level 5 (13–15 marks): Comprehensive and highly precise knowledge of both interventions (AO1). Outstanding, sophisticated application throughout, clearly distinguishing between internal cognitive change and external behavioral modification (AO2). Well-reasoned, highly critical, and balanced evaluation demonstrating deep understanding of offender rehabilitation debates (AO3).
PastPaper.question 13 · essay
15 PastPaper.marks
Elena is setting up a new day care nursery for children aged 6 months to 4 years. She wants to ensure that the environment minimizes any potential negative effects on children's social development, particularly aggression, while maximizing positive peer relations. She is planning staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications, and the onset age for child entry.
Evaluate research into the effects of day care on children's social development (including peer relations and aggression). You must refer to Elena's nursery plans in your response.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The response must evaluate the developmental research on day care (such as the NICHD and EPPE studies) regarding its impact on social development, peer relations, and aggression, and directly relate these findings to Elena's decisions for her new nursery.
Key Knowledge Points (AO1): - Day care quality (staff-to-child ratios, staff training/qualifications) mediates social development outcomes. - Duration of day care (long hours per week) and early age of onset (under 12 months) are linked to higher levels of aggression and peer non-compliance. - High-quality day care fosters peer relations, sociability, and independence. - Key research studies: NICHD (USA) and EPPE (UK) longitudinal studies.
Key Application Points (AO2): - Elena should implement low staff-to-child ratios and hire qualified staff to ensure responsive care, which buffers against cortisol/stress-induced aggression. - Elena should advise parents on balancing hours (duration) for children, particularly infants under one year old, to prevent attachment disruption. - Elena can use structured peer play and small group environments to maximize the positive benefits of peer interaction identified in the EPPE study.
Key Evaluation Points (AO3): - The NICHD study provides robust evidence that high hours in care correlate with increased externalizing behavior/aggression, but high quality boosts cognitive skills. - The EPPE study supports the value of qualified staff and pre-school education for social development, showing that quality mediates outcomes. - Methodological limitations: Correlational designs mean family background, maternal depression, or genetic factors may confound the relationship between day care and aggression. - Definitions and measurements of 'aggression' and 'sociability' vary across studies, affecting validity.
- Level 1 (1–3 marks): Superficial knowledge of day care effects (AO1). Minimal or absent application to Elena's nursery decisions (AO2). Evaluation is descriptive and lacks reference to empirical studies (AO3). - Level 2 (4–6 marks): Basic knowledge of quality/duration factors or studies like NICHD/EPPE (AO1). Some application to Elena's nursery ratios or age groups (AO2). Basic evaluation points are mentioned (AO3). - Level 3 (7–9 marks): Good knowledge of how day care quality, onset, and duration affect social skills and aggression (AO1). Clear application to Elena's decisions on staffing and age boundaries (AO2). Evaluation includes findings from NICHD or EPPE (AO3). - Level 4 (10–12 marks): Detailed, accurate knowledge of both positive and negative social outcomes of day care (AO1). Well-integrated application across Elena's nursery planning options (AO2). Balanced evaluation using research evidence, with some consideration of methodological issues like correlation (AO3). - Level 5 (13–15 marks): Highly detailed, comprehensive, and accurate knowledge of NICHD, EPPE, and developmental theory (AO1). Exceptional application, showing how Elena's policy can directly mitigate risks of aggression and enhance social development (AO2). Sophisticated, highly critical evaluation of the research, discussing confounding variables and measurement validity (AO3).
PastPaper.question 14 · essay
15 PastPaper.marks
Marcus is a health psychologist working in an addiction recovery clinic. He is designing a treatment protocol for individuals wishing to quit smoking tobacco. He is deciding whether to recommend biological interventions (such as Nicotine Replacement Therapy - NRT) or psychological interventions (such as CBT or aversion therapy).
Evaluate biological and psychological interventions for treating addiction. You must refer to Marcus's treatment protocol in your response.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The response must evaluate biological interventions (such as NRT) and psychological/behavioral interventions (such as CBT or aversion therapy) for addiction, explicitly linking these to Marcus's design of a treatment protocol for tobacco addiction.
Key Knowledge Points (AO1): - NRT operates biologically by supplying nicotine to target brain receptors, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms without tobacco toxins. - CBT targets cognitive expectancies, identifies high-risk situational triggers, and teaches coping mechanisms. - Aversion therapy works via classical conditioning, pairing smoking with an unpleasant stimulus (rapid smoking leading to nausea).
Key Application Points (AO2): - Marcus can use NRT to address the immediate physical withdrawal symptoms of his clinic's patients, improving short-term compliance. - Marcus can utilize CBT to address the long-term cognitive and emotional triggers of smoking (e.g. coping with stress), preventing relapse. - Marcus must consider the ethical implications and high attrition rates of aversion therapy if implementing rapid smoking in his clinic.
Key Evaluation Points (AO3): - Stead et al. (2012) meta-analysis provides strong empirical validation of NRT's efficacy compared to placebos. - NRT fails to address the psychological habits, environmental cues, and hand-to-mouth behaviors associated with smoking, leading to potential relapse once NRT ceases. - CBT has high long-term success rates and equips patients with active coping skills, but requires high cognitive engagement and is expensive to deliver. - Aversion therapy suffers from low ecological validity, rapid extinction of the conditioned response, and ethical challenges regarding patient distress.
- Level 1 (1–3 marks): Basic, limited knowledge of NRT, CBT, or aversion therapy (AO1). Minimal or superficial application to Marcus's clinic (AO2). Descriptive evaluation with little critical depth (AO3). - Level 2 (4–6 marks): Explains both biological and psychological interventions with some accuracy (AO1). Some application to Marcus's smoking cessation protocol (AO2). Basic strengths/weaknesses of treatments presented (AO3). - Level 3 (7–9 marks): Good knowledge of the biological action of NRT and the cognitive/behavioral basis of CBT/aversion therapy (AO1). Appropriate, clear application to Marcus's patients (AO2). Evaluation includes relevant clinical/empirical evidence (AO3). - Level 4 (10–12 marks): Detailed, accurate knowledge of NRT and CBT/aversion therapy (AO1). Consistent, effective application to Marcus's clinic, contrasting short-term physical withdrawal with long-term relapse prevention (AO2). Balanced evaluation using appropriate evidence/arguments (AO3). - Level 5 (13–15 marks): Comprehensive, highly precise knowledge of the neurological basis of NRT and the mechanisms of CBT/aversion therapy (AO1). Outstanding, sophisticated application to Marcus's clinical choices throughout (AO2). Critical, highly balanced evaluation showing a deep understanding of the biological vs. psychological treatment debate in addiction recovery (AO3).
Paper 3: Psychological Skills
Answer all questions in Sections A, B, and C.
12 PastPaper.question · 78 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
An investigator wants to see if there is a relationship between gender (Male/Female) and whether they pass a high-stress task (Pass/Fail). The data gathered is shown in the table below:
Calculate the expected frequency for Males who Pass. Show your working and give your answer to one decimal place.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
To calculate the expected frequency, the formula is: \(\text{Expected Frequency} = \frac{\text{Row Total} \times \text{Column Total}}{\text{Grand Total}}\). For Males who Pass, the row total for Males is 40 and the column total for Pass is 45. The grand total is 80. Substituting these values: \(\text{Expected Frequency} = \frac{40 \times 45}{80} = \frac{1800}{80} = 22.5\).
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for identifying the correct formula: (Row Total * Column Total) / Grand Total. 1 mark for inserting correct values: (40 * 45) / 80. 1 mark for correct final calculation: 22.5.
PastPaper.question 2 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
A researcher conducted a Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test to compare participants' anxiety levels before and after a mindfulness session. The differences (After score minus Before score) for 6 participants were: Participant 1: -3; Participant 2: +1; Participant 3: -4; Participant 4: 0; Participant 5: -2; Participant 6: -5. Calculate the observed value of \(T\) for this test. Show your working.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Step 1: Exclude Participant 4 as the difference is 0. This leaves 5 participants. Step 2: List the remaining differences and find their absolute values: |-3| = 3, |+1| = 1, |-4| = 4, |-2| = 2, |-5| = 5. Step 3: Rank these absolute differences from lowest to highest: 1 (Rank 1), 2 (Rank 2), 3 (Rank 3), 4 (Rank 4), 5 (Rank 5). Step 4: Add the ranks for positive differences and negative differences. Positive differences: +1 (Rank 1). Negative differences: -2 (Rank 2), -3 (Rank 3), -4 (Rank 4), -5 (Rank 5), sum = 2+3+4+5 = 14. Step 5: The observed value of \(T\) is the smaller of the two sums. Therefore, \(T = 1\).
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for omitting the zero difference (Participant 4) and listing absolute differences. 1 mark for correctly ranking the absolute differences and assigning signs: +1 (Rank 1), -2 (Rank 2), -3 (Rank 3), -4 (Rank 4), -5 (Rank 5). 1 mark for identifying the sum of ranks for positive differences as the smaller sum, resulting in an observed value of \(T = 1\).
PastPaper.question 3 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
A cognitive psychologist compared the reaction times (in seconds) of two groups performing a spatial task under different lighting conditions. Group A (Bright light) had a Mean of 1.45s and a Standard Deviation of 0.12s. Group B (Dim light) had a Mean of 1.62s and a Standard Deviation of 0.45s. Explain what these standard deviations show about the reaction times of the two groups.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The standard deviation measures the spread of data around the mean. Group B has a much larger standard deviation (0.45s) compared to Group A (0.12s). This shows that the reaction times of participants in Group B were highly variable and less consistent, with scores spread far from the mean. In contrast, Group A's smaller standard deviation shows that their reaction times were highly consistent and clustered closely around their average performance.
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for identifying that Group B has a larger standard deviation than Group A (or vice versa). 1 mark for explaining that a larger standard deviation means the scores are more spread out / less consistent around the mean. 1 mark for explaining that a smaller standard deviation means Group A's reaction times were more consistent or clustered closer to their average.
PastPaper.question 4 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
A developmental study compared the number of aggressive acts in two groups of children. Group X (watched a violent video) scored: 8, 12, 15, 9. Group Y (watched a neutral video) scored: 3, 7, 10, 5. Calculate the sum of ranks for Group Y (\(R_2\)) when ranking all scores together from lowest to highest. Show your working.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Step 1: Combine and order all scores from lowest to highest: 3 (Y), 5 (Y), 7 (Y), 8 (X), 9 (X), 10 (Y), 12 (X), 15 (X). Step 2: Assign ranks from 1 to 8: 3 (Rank 1), 5 (Rank 2), 7 (Rank 3), 8 (Rank 4), 9 (Rank 5), 10 (Rank 6), 12 (Rank 7), 15 (Rank 8). Step 3: Sum the ranks for Group Y: \(1 + 2 + 3 + 6 = 12\).
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for ordering all 8 scores correctly: 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15. 1 mark for assigning ranks 1 to 8 correctly and identifying Group Y's ranks: 3 (Rank 1), 5 (Rank 2), 7 (Rank 3), 10 (Rank 6). 1 mark for summing the ranks for Group Y correctly: 1 + 2 + 3 + 6 = 12.
PastPaper.question 5 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
A clinical psychologist tracked the number of patients self-reporting severe depressive symptoms before and after a new cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) programme. Before the programme, 120 patients reported severe symptoms. After the programme, this number dropped to 42. Calculate the percentage reduction in the number of patients reporting severe symptoms. Show your working.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Step 1: Calculate the absolute reduction in patient numbers: \(120 - 42 = 78\). Step 2: Divide the reduction by the original number of patients: \(\frac{78}{120} = 0.65\). Step 3: Convert to a percentage: \(0.65 \times 100 = 65\%\).
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for calculating the difference in patient numbers: 120 - 42 = 78. 1 mark for setting up the percentage calculation: (78 / 120) * 100. 1 mark for the correct final percentage: 65% (accept 65).
PastPaper.question 6 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
A developmental psychologist observed nursery children and recorded their primary play types: Solitary play: 24 children; Parallel play: 36 children; Cooperative play: 12 children. Calculate the simplest whole-number ratio of children engaging in solitary, parallel, and cooperative play. Show your working.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Step 1: Write down the initial ratio in order: 24 (solitary) : 36 (parallel) : 12 (cooperative). Step 2: Identify the greatest common divisor for all three numbers, which is 12. Step 3: Divide each number by 12: \(\frac{24}{12} = 2\), \(\frac{36}{12} = 3\), \(\frac{12}{12} = 1\). The simplest whole-number ratio is 2:3:1.
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for stating the initial ratio: 24 : 36 : 12. 1 mark for dividing by a common factor (e.g., dividing by 6 to get 4:6:2, or dividing by 12). 1 mark for providing the final simplest whole-number ratio: 2:3:1.
PastPaper.question 7 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
An educational psychologist is investigating the relationship between hours spent studying and exam scores. They have ranked data for 5 students as follows: Student A: Study Rank 1, Exam Rank 2; Student B: Study Rank 2, Exam Rank 1; Student C: Study Rank 3, Exam Rank 4; Student D: Study Rank 4, Exam Rank 3; Student E: Study Rank 5, Exam Rank 5. Calculate the value of \(\sum d^2\) for this data to be used in a Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. Show your working.
1 mark for calculating individual differences (d) between ranks: -1, 1, -1, 1, 0. 1 mark for squaring the differences (d^2): 1, 1, 1, 1, 0. 1 mark for summing the squared differences correctly: 4.
PastPaper.question 8 · short_answer
3 PastPaper.marks
A researcher conducts a Chi-squared test to see if there is a significant difference in sleep quality (Good/Poor) between shift workers and daytime workers. Their calculated \(X^2\) value is 4.12. The critical value table for a one-tailed test at \(df = 1\) is: \(p \leq 0.05\): 2.71; \(p \leq 0.01\): 5.43. Explain whether the researcher can accept their alternative hypothesis at \(p \leq 0.05\) and at \(p \leq 0.01\).
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PastPaper.workedSolution
To accept the alternative hypothesis, the calculated Chi-squared value must be equal to or greater than the critical value at the chosen significance level. At \(p \leq 0.05\), the calculated value (4.12) is greater than the critical value (2.71), meaning the difference is statistically significant. However, at \(p \leq 0.01\), the calculated value (4.12) is less than the critical value (5.43), so the difference is not significant. Therefore, the researcher can only accept their alternative hypothesis at the \(p \leq 0.05\) level of significance, but must reject it in favour of the null hypothesis at the \(p \leq 0.01\) level.
PastPaper.markingScheme
1 mark for explaining that at p <= 0.05, the calculated value of 4.12 is greater than the critical value of 2.71, so they can accept the alternative hypothesis. 1 mark for explaining that at p <= 0.01, the calculated value of 4.12 is less than the critical value of 5.43, so they must reject the alternative hypothesis. 1 mark for a clear concluding statement that they can only accept the alternative hypothesis at the 0.05 level of significance and not at the more stringent 0.01 level.
PastPaper.question 9 · essay
13.5 PastPaper.marks
To what extent can psychological understanding of human aggression be explained by the nature-nurture debate? Refer to biological psychology and learning theories in your answer.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
AO1: Biological psychology explains aggression through nature, such as high testosterone levels, amygdala dysfunction, and the MAOA gene. Brendgen et al. (2005) demonstrated a high genetic correlation for physical aggression in twins. Learning theories explain aggression through nurture, emphasizing environmental experiences. Social Learning Theory (Bandura) suggests aggression is acquired via observation, imitation, and vicarious reinforcement of role models. Operant conditioning explains aggression via direct positive reinforcement (e.g., getting what you want by being aggressive). AO3: Evaluating nature: Twin studies show strong genetic links, but concordance rates are never 100 percent, indicating environmental factors must play a role. Biological explanations are reductionist as they ignore social contexts. Evaluating nurture: Bandura's laboratory studies support observational learning but lack ecological validity. Furthermore, learning theories cannot explain why some individuals in the same environment do not show aggression, suggesting a biological vulnerability. Conclusion: An interactionist perspective (diathesis-stress model) is superior, showing that a biological predisposition (nature) is triggered by environmental stressors (nurture).
PastPaper.markingScheme
AO1 (6 marks): Award up to 6 marks for accurate knowledge of biological and learning explanations of aggression. 5-6 marks: Thorough, accurate, and detailed descriptions of both biological (e.g., genetics, hormones, brain structure) and learning mechanisms (e.g., SLT, operant conditioning). 3-4 marks: Good description of both or detailed description of one with some omissions in the other. 1-2 marks: Basic, limited, or superficial descriptions. AO3 (7.5 marks): Award up to 7.5 marks for evaluation of the debate in relation to aggression. 6-7.5 marks: Sophisticated, balanced, and critical evaluation comparing nature and nurture. Outlines strengths/limitations of research, discusses reductionism, and proposes an interactionist model with clear justification. 4-5.5 marks: Developed evaluation but may lack balance or focus too much on describing research studies rather than directly addressing the nature-nurture debate. 2-3.5 marks: Basic evaluation with limited depth, mostly listing generic strengths and weaknesses. 0.5-1.5 marks: Superifical points with minimal relevance to the debate.
PastPaper.question 10 · essay
13.5 PastPaper.marks
Assess the social and clinical implications of psychological research in terms of social control. You must refer to social psychology and clinical psychology in your answer.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
AO1: In social psychology, research on obedience (Milgram) and agency theory explains how authorities can command destructive obedience. Understanding this can be used positively to prevent blind obedience, but also negatively to manipulate public behavior. In clinical psychology, treatments such as drug therapy (e.g., antipsychotics) and token economies act as forms of social control. Antipsychotics chemically control behaviour to manage symptoms, while token economies systematically reinforce socially acceptable behavior in institutions. AO3: Social psychology applications: Knowledge of social identity theory and prejudice can be used by governments to design interventions to reduce conflict, representing positive social control. However, Milgram's findings show how easily individuals submit to authority, which can be exploited by political regimes to enforce compliance. Clinical psychology applications: Drug therapies can be viewed as a chemical straightjacket, controlling patients for the convenience of staff rather than the patient's well-being. On the other hand, controlling behavior is sometimes necessary to protect the patient or others from harm. Token economies can be paternalistic, stripping patients of basic rights unless they conform to arbitrary institutional standards. Conclusion: Psychological research inevitably provides tools for social control; the ethical responsibility lies in ensuring these are used to empower individuals rather than oppress them.
PastPaper.markingScheme
AO1 (6 marks): Award up to 6 marks for clear explanation of concepts relating to social control from social and clinical psychology. 5-6 marks: Accurate, well-integrated knowledge of both fields with specific examples (e.g., obedience, drug therapy, token economies). 3-4 marks: Reasonable knowledge with some detailed points, but may be slightly unbalanced between the two fields. 1-2 marks: Fragmented or basic descriptions of concepts without a clear link to social control. AO3 (7.5 marks): Award up to 7.5 marks for critical assessment of the implications. 6-7.5 marks: Nuanced, balanced analysis of the tension between positive benefits (public safety, therapeutic improvement) and negative implications (loss of free will, ethical concerns, abuse of power) of social control. 4-5.5 marks: Clear assessment but may be one-sided or lack depth in discussing the philosophical/ethical implications. 2-3.5 marks: Simplistic evaluation, listing generic ethics without linking deeply to social control. 0.5-1.5 marks: Superficial comments with little analysis.
PastPaper.question 11 · essay
13.5 PastPaper.marks
Evaluate the contribution of Nomothetic and Idiographic approaches to our understanding of memory and learning. Refer to cognitive psychology and learning theories in your answer.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
AO1: The nomothetic approach seeks to establish general laws of human behavior based on large, representative samples. Cognitive psychology uses nomothetic models of memory, such as the Multi-Store Model (Atkinson and Shiffrin) and Working Memory Model (Baddeley and Hitch). Learning theories are highly nomothetic, using animal research (Pavlov, Skinner) to formulate universal laws of conditioning. The idiographic approach focuses on the unique individual. Cognitive psychology utilizes idiographic methods through case studies of brain-damaged patients (e.g., HM, KF) to understand memory structures. AO3: Evaluating nomothetic: High scientific credibility, objective, replicable, and allows for prediction. However, it can lose the individual experience (e.g., general memory models might not fit unique cognitive profiles). Evaluating idiographic: Case studies of unique patients (like KF showing impaired short-term auditory memory but intact visual memory) directly challenged the nomothetic Multi-Store Model, leading to the development of the more complex Working Memory Model. However, idiographic findings are unrepresentative and cannot be easily generalized. Synthesis: The two approaches are complementary. Nomothetic models provide a baseline framework, while idiographic case studies test the boundaries of these models and drive theoretical refinement.
PastPaper.markingScheme
AO1 (6 marks): Award up to 6 marks for accurate knowledge of nomothetic and idiographic approaches as applied to cognitive psychology and learning theories. 5-6 marks: Clear, detailed description of both approaches, with accurate examples (e.g., MSM, WMM, classical conditioning, case studies like HM/KF). 3-4 marks: Good description but may favor one approach or contain minor inaccuracies. 1-2 marks: Basic definitions with minimal application to memory or learning. AO3 (7.5 marks): Award up to 7.5 marks for evaluation of the contributions of both approaches. 6-7.5 marks: Insightful, balanced discussion showing how they complement each other. Critical evaluation of scientific rigor vs. clinical/depth value, with clear logical structure. 4-5.5 marks: Developed evaluation but may focus heavily on describing the models rather than analyzing the methodological approaches. 2-3.5 marks: Basic points, listing strengths and weaknesses without synthesizing them. 0.5-1.5 marks: Isolated or superficial evaluative points.
PastPaper.question 12 · essay
13.5 PastPaper.marks
To what extent is psychology a science? Assess this debate with reference to clinical psychology and biological psychology.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
AO1: Features of a science include objectivity, replicability, falsifiability, and controlled empirical testing. Biological psychology utilizes highly scientific methods, such as fMRI and PET scans to study brain activity, and twin/adoption studies to investigate genetic basis. These produce quantitative, objective data. Clinical psychology aims to be scientific through standardized diagnostic systems (DSM-5, ICD-11) and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to test drug efficacy. However, diagnosis relies on self-reported clinical interviews, which are highly subjective. AO3: Scientific strengths of biological psychology: High control over confounding variables and high replicability (e.g., drug trials, brain imaging protocols). It provides falsifiable hypotheses (e.g., the dopamine hypothesis of schizophrenia). Scientific limitations of clinical psychology: Diagnostic systems have reliability issues, and symptoms are interpreted subjectively by clinicians (e.g., cultural bias). Treatments like psychoanalysis are unfalsifiable, while CBT is highly dependent on client-therapist rapport, making replication difficult. Evaluation of the debate: Applying strict scientific criteria to human mental health can be reductionist, ignoring the subjective experience of distress. However, adopting scientific standards is vital for establishing clinical credibility and securing funding. Conclusion: Biological psychology represents a highly scientific approach, whereas clinical psychology must balance scientific rigor with qualitative, patient-centered care, showing that psychology is only a science to a moderate extent.
PastPaper.markingScheme
AO1 (6 marks): Award up to 6 marks for knowledge of scientific criteria and their application in biological and clinical psychology. 5-6 marks: Detailed, accurate understanding of scientific features (objectivity, replicability, falsifiability) and clear examples from both fields. 3-4 marks: Good understanding but might focus more on one field or lack specific scientific terminology. 1-2 marks: Superficial descriptions of scientific features and psychological content. AO3 (7.5 marks): Award up to 7.5 marks for critical assessment of the extent to which psychology is a science. 6-7.5 marks: Highly structured, balanced debate assessing the pros and cons of scientific status, considering reductionism, usefulness, reliability, and subjectivity in clinical settings. 4-5.5 marks: Developed discussion but may lack balance or rely too much on descriptive comparisons. 2-3.5 marks: Standard, formulaic evaluations of studies rather than addressing the core debate of scientific status. 0.5-1.5 marks: Basic or irrelevant comments.