How to Revise Topic 1: Social psychology — Edexcel A-Level Psychology
Topic 1: Social psychology is a topic in the Edexcel A-Level Psychology specification. This guide covers learning objectives, examiner tips, common mistakes, and key terminology to help you revise effectively.
Examiner Tips for Topic 1: Social psychology
- Ensure you can apply inferential statistical tests (Spearman's rho) to correlational data
- Be prepared to discuss issues and debates (e.g., ethics, reductionism, nature-nurture) specifically within the context of biological psychology
- Practice evaluating the validity and reliability of brain-scanning techniques
- Ensure you can link biological theories to the specific contemporary studies listed in the specification
- Be ready to discuss the implications of biological findings for society (e.g., social control, drug therapy)
Common Mistakes in Topic 1: Social psychology
- Confusing correlation with causation in correlational research
- Failing to address the specific requirements of the practical investigation (e.g., Spearman's rho, descriptive statistics)
- Over-simplifying biological explanations (reductionism)
- Inadequate evaluation of brain-scanning techniques
- Misunderstanding the distinction between biological and psychodynamic explanations for aggression
Key Marking Points
- Structure and role of the neuron, neurotransmitters, and synaptic transmission
- Effect of recreational drugs on CNS transmission
- Brain structure and functioning (e.g., pre-frontal cortex) as an explanation for aggression
- Role of evolution and natural selection in human behaviour/aggression
- Biological explanation of aggression vs. Freud's psychodynamic explanation (id, ego, superego, unconscious, catharsis)
- Role of hormones (e.g., testosterone) in aggression