Question 1

What is the difference between alpha and beta bias in psychology?

Accepted Answer

Alpha bias refers to theories that exaggerate differences between genders, often portraying one gender as superior or more 'natural' in certain traits. For example, Freud's theory suggests that women have weaker superegos than men. Beta bias, on the other hand, minimises or ignores gender differences, assuming findings from one gender apply to both. For instance, early research on fight-or-flight responses used mostly male participants, leading to a beta bias that overlooked women's 'tend-and-befriend' response.

Question 2

How do I evaluate reductionism in psychology for an exam?

Accepted Answer

To evaluate reductionism, first define it: breaking complex behaviour into simpler components. Then give a strength: it allows for controlled experiments and clear cause-effect conclusions (e.g., biological reductionism in explaining OCD via low serotonin). Then a limitation: it oversimplifies behaviour, ignoring social and cognitive factors (e.g., OCD also involves irrational thoughts). Finally, consider an alternative: holism (e.g., humanistic approach) but note its lack of scientific rigour. Use specific examples from the topic you're discussing.

Question 3

What is the nature-nurture debate in psychology?

Accepted Answer

The nature-nurture debate concerns the relative contribution of genetic inheritance (nature) and environmental factors (nurture) to behaviour. Nature includes genes, hormones, and brain structures; nurture includes upbringing, culture, and life experiences. Most psychologists now accept an interactionist approach, where both factors interact. For example, in schizophrenia, a genetic predisposition (nature) may be triggered by stress (nurture). The debate is often applied to topics like intelligence, aggression, and mental health.

Question 4

Why is cultural bias a problem in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

Cultural bias occurs when research from one culture (often Western) is assumed to apply universally. This can lead to ethnocentrism, where other cultures are judged as 'abnormal' or 'inferior'. For example, Ainsworth's Strange Situation classified Japanese infants as 'insecure-resistant' because they showed more distress, but this may reflect cultural differences in child-rearing (e.g., less separation). Cultural bias reduces the validity of findings and can perpetuate stereotypes. To avoid it, researchers should use culturally sensitive methods and diverse samples.

Question 5

What is the idiographic approach in psychology?

Accepted Answer

The idiographic approach focuses on the individual, aiming to understand unique experiences through qualitative methods like case studies, interviews, and diaries. It is associated with humanistic psychology (e.g., Rogers) and psychodynamic approaches (e.g., Freud's case studies). Strengths include rich, detailed data and a holistic view of the person. Limitations include difficulty generalising findings and potential researcher bias. In contrast, the nomothetic approach seeks general laws through large samples and quantitative data, like in behaviourist experiments.

Question 6

How does determinism vs. free will apply to the biological approach?

Accepted Answer

The biological approach is often seen as hard deterministic because it explains behaviour as caused by biological factors (genes, neurotransmitters, brain structure) beyond our control. For example, research links low serotonin to depression, suggesting a biological cause. However, this can be criticised for ignoring free will and personal responsibility. Some argue for soft determinism, where biology creates predispositions but environment and choices still play a role. For instance, someone with a genetic risk for depression may not develop it if they have strong social support.

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