The self - 7.2 Studies: 7.2.1 Vohs and Schooler (2008) The Value of…

The idea

Vohs and Schooler (2008) investigated whether reading deterministic statements (suggesting behaviour is outside our control) increases cheating compared to reading statements supporting free will. In Experiment 1, participants read either a deterministic or neutral text, then completed a computer-based maths task where a 'glitch' allowed them to see the answers. Those in the determinism condition cheated significantly more. Experiment 2 used logic and mathematics problems where participants paid themselves for correct answers from an envelope; again, the determinism group took more money than they earned. The study concludes that undermining belief in free will can lead to unethical behaviour, as individuals feel less responsible for their actions.

What earns the marks

• Identify the aim of the study: to investigate whether a belief in determinism increases cheating behaviour.
• Describe the procedure of Experiment 1, including the use of a computer-based maths test with a spacebar 'glitch' that revealed the answers.
• Describe the procedure of Experiment 2, where participants completed logic and mathematics problems and paid themselves from an envelope for each correct answer.
• State the findings: participants exposed to deterministic texts cheated significantly more than those exposed to neutral or free will texts.
• Explain the conclusion: believing that behaviour is predetermined reduces feelings of personal responsibility, which can lead to unethical behaviour.
• Evaluate the methodology, noting the high level of control in the laboratory setting but the potential lack of ecological validity due to the artificial tasks.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Confusing the independent and dependent variables.

  Put it right: The independent variable is the type of text read (deterministic versus neutral or free will), and the dependent variable is the amount of cheating.

• Stating that the study proves free will exists.

  Put it right: The study only demonstrates that believing in free will affects moral behaviour, not whether free will actually exists.

• Forgetting the difference between the two experiments.

  Put it right: Experiment 1 used a computer glitch in a maths test, while Experiment 2 involved participants completing logic and mathematics problems and paying themselves from an envelope.

Exam tips

• Be prepared to describe the specific tasks used to measure cheating, such as the spacebar glitch in the maths test or the self-payment for logic problems.
• Link the findings back to the broader topic of 'The self' by discussing how self-concept and personal responsibility influence behaviour.
• Use this study as evidence when evaluating the free will versus determinism debate in psychology.