Question 1

What is the difference between an area and a perspective in OCR Psychology?

Accepted Answer

In OCR Psychology, 'areas' and 'perspectives' are often used interchangeably, but technically an 'area' refers to a broad approach like cognitive or biological, while a 'perspective' is a specific viewpoint within an area (e.g., the psychodynamic perspective within the psychodynamic area). For the exam, you need to know the six core areas/perspectives: psychodynamic, behaviourist, cognitive, biological, positive, and evolutionary. Each has distinct assumptions, methods, and key studies.

Question 2

How do I evaluate a perspective in a 12-mark essay?

Accepted Answer

Use the PEEL structure: Point (state a strength or limitation), Evidence (cite a study or real-world example), Explanation (explain how the evidence supports your point), Link (connect back to the question or compare with another perspective). For example, for the biological perspective: 'One strength is its use of scientific methods (Point). For instance, brain scans like PET scans have shown reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex of criminals (Evidence). This provides objective, reliable data (Explanation). However, this reductionist approach ignores social factors, unlike the behaviourist perspective (Link).' Aim for two strengths and two limitations, and always include a conclusion.

Question 3

What are the key debates I need to know for OCR Psychology?

Accepted Answer

The main debates are: nature vs. nurture (genetics vs. environment), free will vs. determinism (choice vs. pre-programmed behaviour), reductionism vs. holism (breaking behaviour down vs. studying the whole person), idiographic vs. nomothetic (individual case studies vs. general laws), and the issue of cultural and gender bias. You should be able to define each debate, give examples from different perspectives, and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each side. For example, the biological perspective is often deterministic and reductionist, while the humanistic perspective emphasises free will and holism.

Question 4

How can I revise synoptic links between topics?

Accepted Answer

Create a mind map or table that connects each perspective to the key debates. For example, link the cognitive perspective to the nature-nurture debate by noting that schemas are learned (nurture) but memory capacity may be innate (nature). Also, practice writing short paragraphs that compare two perspectives on the same issue, like how the biological and cognitive perspectives explain depression. Use past paper questions to identify common synoptic themes, such as 'Discuss the nature-nurture debate in relation to aggression' or 'Evaluate the free will-determinism debate using two psychological perspectives.'

Question 5

What is the positive perspective and why is it included?

Accepted Answer

The positive perspective, founded by Martin Seligman, focuses on wellbeing, happiness, and human strengths rather than mental illness. It includes concepts like flow, gratitude, and resilience. It's included in OCR to broaden psychology beyond pathology and to reflect modern developments. Key studies include Seligman's work on learned optimism and Csikszentmihalyi's research on flow. Evaluate it by noting its practical applications (e.g., in schools and workplaces) but also its cultural bias (individualistic Western values) and lack of a unified theory.

Question 6

How do I answer a question that asks me to 'compare and contrast' two perspectives?

Accepted Answer

Start by briefly outlining each perspective's key assumptions. Then, identify similarities (e.g., both the cognitive and biological perspectives use scientific methods) and differences (e.g., cognitive focuses on mental processes, biological on brain structures). Use specific studies to illustrate each point. For example, compare the cognitive approach's use of lab experiments (e.g., Loftus and Palmer) with the psychodynamic approach's use of case studies (e.g., Little Hans). Conclude by evaluating which perspective provides a more complete explanation for the behaviour in question. Always link back to the question's focus.

Section B: Areas, perspectives and debates

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Likely Command Words

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Related Topics in OCR A-Level Psychology

Applied psychology (Component 03)

Data recording, analysis and presentation

E2E stub topic

How science works

How to Revise Section B: Areas, perspectives and debates — OCR A-Level Psychology

Examiner Tips for Section B: Areas, perspectives and debates

Common Mistakes in Section B: Areas, perspectives and debates

Key Marking Points