Question 1

What is the difference between environmental stress and general stress in psychology?

Accepted Answer

Environmental stress specifically refers to stress caused by physical surroundings, such as noise, crowding, or pollution, rather than social or psychological factors. While general stress can arise from any demand, environmental stress focuses on how features of the environment (e.g., temperature, lighting) trigger physiological and psychological responses. Key models, like Evans & Cohen's (1987), highlight that environmental stressors often involve a lack of perceived control, which amplifies their negative impact.

Question 2

How does Attention Restoration Theory explain the benefits of nature?

Accepted Answer

Attention Restoration Theory (ART), proposed by Kaplan & Kaplan (1989), suggests that natural environments restore directed attention (used for focused tasks) by engaging 'soft fascination'—effortless attention that allows the brain to recover. Nature also provides a sense of 'being away' from daily demands, 'extent' (a coherent, immersive environment), and 'compatibility' with our innate preferences. Studies like Berman et al. (2008) show that walking in nature improves performance on attention tasks compared to urban walks.

Question 3

What are the key studies for OCR A-Level Environmental Psychology?

Accepted Answer

Key studies include: Ulrich (1984) on views of nature and recovery from surgery; Glass & Singer (1972) on noise and performance; Evans & Cohen (1987) on environmental stress; and Kaplan & Kaplan (1989) on restorative environments. For pro-environmental behaviour, refer to studies on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (e.g., Ajzen, 1991) and the Value-Belief-Norm theory (Stern, 2000). Make sure you can describe the method, results, and evaluate each study.

Question 4

How can I apply environmental psychology to real-world design?

Accepted Answer

Environmental psychology informs design by considering human needs. For example, hospitals can incorporate nature views and gardens to reduce patient stress (Ulrich, 1984). Offices can use adjustable lighting and quiet zones to enhance productivity and reduce noise stress. Urban planners can create green spaces to promote mental restoration and encourage walking. Understanding personal space helps design public transport seating to avoid crowding. These applications show how theory translates into practice.

Question 5

What is the role of perceived control in environmental stress?

Accepted Answer

Perceived control is a crucial moderator of environmental stress. When individuals believe they can control or predict a stressor (e.g., by adjusting noise levels or choosing a seat), the negative effects are reduced. Glass & Singer's (1972) study demonstrated that participants who believed they could stop noise (even if they didn't) showed less frustration and better performance. This highlights that interventions should enhance people's sense of agency, such as providing adjustable thermostats or quiet zones.

Question 6

Why do people not always act pro-environmentally despite knowing the benefits?

Accepted Answer

This 'attitude-behaviour gap' occurs because knowledge alone is insufficient. Factors like social norms, perceived behavioural control, habits, and situational constraints (e.g., lack of recycling bins) play a role. The Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, 1991) suggests that intention is influenced by attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived control. For example, someone may value the environment but not recycle if it's inconvenient. Interventions should address these barriers, such as making recycling easy and highlighting social approval.

Section B: Option 3 Environmental psychology

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Likely Command Words

Ready to test yourself?

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: Option 3 Environmental psychology — OCR A-Level Psychology

Examiner Tips for Section B: Option 3 Environmental psychology

Common Mistakes in Section B: Option 3 Environmental psychology

Key Marking Points