9990 · 3.1.1
The core studies flashcards
Revision flashcards for Cambridge 9990 The core studies (syllabus 3.1.1). Flip, recall, then mark a real past-paper question.
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Milgram (1963) — key finding?
65% of participants delivered maximum 450V shocks to a learner when ordered by an authority figure — obedience to legitimate authority.
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Rosenhan (1973) — key finding?
Pseudopatients admitted to psychiatric hospitals were never detected as sane; staff interpreted normal behaviour as pathological — **validity of psychiatric diagnosis** questioned.
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Bandura et al. (1961) — key finding?
Children who observed an aggressive adult model were more likely to imitate aggressive behaviour toward a Bobo doll — **social learning** of aggression.
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Issues and debates framework?
Nature/nurture, reductionism/holism, individual/situational, ethics, validity, reliability, psychology as a science.
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How to structure a core study essay?
Study detail (aim, method, results) + link to **approach** + apply **issue/debate** + **evaluation** (methodology, generalisability, ethics).
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Why is Rosenhan relevant to Health Psychology?
Shows how **labelling** and **expectancy effects** can distort healthcare — links to misusing health services and patient–provider communication.
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What is the primary purpose of the core studies in the 9990 syllabus?
To serve as examples to illustrate the different approaches, key issues, and central debates within psychology, and to develop skills in evaluating psychological research.
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Name the five psychological approaches covered in the 9990 syllabus.
Biological, Cognitive, Learning, Social, and Clinical.
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Differentiate between an 'issue' and a 'debate' in the context of the core studies.
An 'issue' is a specific point of evaluation for a study (e.g., ethics, validity). A 'debate' is a broader, ongoing argument in psychology with opposing viewpoints (e.g., nature vs. nurture).
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What is meant by the 'application to everyday life' issue?
It refers to considering the usefulness and relevance of the findings and conclusions of a psychological study in real-world settings and for improving people's lives.
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What is the nature vs. nurture debate?
This debate concerns the relative importance of an individual's innate qualities ('nature', i.e., genetics) versus their personal experiences ('nurture', i.e., environment) in determining or causing individual differences in behaviour.