the use of psychological knowledge in society - classic studies

Question 1

the use of psychological knowledge in society using social classic study

Answer 1

Sherif’s study explains prejudice and discrimination. The mere existence of 2 groups is enough to cause hostility and competition between two groups who are working towards same goal.

Sherif’s findings suggests it’s not easy to remove in-group and out-group behaviour as it is a natural feature of society. Even if some groups merge, they’re likely to be hostile to another group.

Question 2

the use of psychological knowledge in society using cognitive classic study

Answer 2

baddeley’s study tells us how memory is processed and allows us to incorporate that into a classroom. For example, grouping things according to their meaning, mind mapping, as his study tells us that the LTM is encoded semantically.

Question 3

the use of psychological knowledge in society using biological classic study

Answer 3

Raine’s study can be used in defence of violent murderers pleading NGRI. PET scans showed a lower level of activity in the pre-frontal cortex and so less emotional regulation. Therefore this rules out their responsibility of crimes because brain scans are objective credible data.

However, findings have ethical implications on society because it allows murderers to get away with their crimes solely by the fact that it’s down to their biology. Releasing these offenders back into society may increase crime rates further.

Question 4

the use of psychological knowledge in society using learning classic study

Answer 4

Watson and Rayner’s understanding of how phobias can be learned and conditioned suggests that phobias can be unconditioned and therefore help people in society with irrational fears through therapies e.g. flooding or systematic desensitisation.

Question 5

the use of psychological knowledge in society using clinical classic study

Answer 5

Rosenhan highlighted people must be accurately diagnosed, because if the disorder can be treated it can help the individual and their family which can help society as a whole.

Right drug is given in 1/3 of cases of drug treatments, it controls SZ as long as the medication is taken. People are then able to function in society rather than in an institution, which won’t just benefit them but society at large.