Approaches AO3

Question 1

Strength of Wundt and Introspection

Answer 1

Used systematic and well controlled methods. Lab environment allowed for high levels of control and control of extraneous variables. Used standardised procedures allowing research to be forerunner of later scientific approaches.

Question 2

Weaknesses of Wundt/Introspection

Answer 2

• Other elements consisted of unscientific tools. Self reporting mental processes resulted in subjective data. ppts could have hidden undesirable thoughts. Difficult to establish meaningful laws of behaviour.
• Can’t be used to study many different aspects of human behaviour. Children/animals can’t be studied doe to limited capacity to express thoughts/feelings/emotions. Use and application limited.

Question 3

Strength of Behaviourist Approach

Answer 3

Experimental research support. Skinner’s study was lab exp so high level of control and control of extraneous variables. Makes approach more likely to be reliable and valid.

Question 4

Weaknesses of Behaviourist Approach

Answer 4

• Heavy reliance on animal studies. Skinner used rats for operant conditioning, Pavlov used dogs for classical conditioning. Animals are biologically and cognitively different to humans so we can’t extrapolate results to human behaviour as it may not be valid to do so.
• Doesn’t take into account biological factors. E.G. genetic factors. Environmentally reductionist and doesn’t take into account other influences so may only be partial exp.

Question 5

Strength of Social Learning Theory

Answer 5

Research support. Bandura found children with aggressive adult more likely to imitate aggressive behaviour compared to children with non-aggressive adult. Repeatable study which increases reliability of theory.

Question 6

Weaknesses of Social Learning Theory

Answer 6

• Over reliance on evidence from lab studies. Children may have had demand characteristics as dolls meant to be hit so children may be acting in a way they thought was expected. Theory less applicable to everyday life as children may learn aggression differently.
• Underestimates influence of biological factors. Boys more aggressive than girls can be explained by testosterone levels which is linked to aggression. Not comprehensive explanation as other factors need consideration.