Psychology Study Guide for Paper 1

Sep 12, 2024

IV Psychology Video Tutorial

Overview

  • Host: Travis Dixon
  • Focus: Technological techniques in biological approach of psychology
  • Objective: Use the same studies for multiple topics to save revision time
  • Target Audience: Aimed at students preparing for Paper 1

Paper 1 Components

  • Approaches Covered:
    • Biological
    • Cognitive
    • Socio-cultural
  • Focus Area: Biological approach, particularly brain and behavior

Key Topics in Biological Approach

  1. Techniques
  2. Localization
  3. Neuroplasticity

Techniques

  • Recommendation: Choose fMRI or MRI
    • Rationale: Technological focus
    • Not Recommended: Non-technological methods like case studies, animal studies
  • Objective: Show how and why techniques are used to study the brain

Localization

  • Requirement: Understand and give examples of localization of function
  • Example Studies:
    • Ventromedial prefrontal cortex and cognitive appraisal

Neuroplasticity

  • Requirement: Define and provide examples
  • Example Studies:
    • Effects of socioeconomic status on the amygdala and hippocampus

Tips for Success

  • For 4-5 Marks:
    • State the technique and example study
  • For 6-7 Marks:
    • Provide detailed explanations
    • Use the same study for techniques and either localization or neuroplasticity

Examples of Overlaps

  • Localization:
    • Study the function of vmPFC in decision-making
    • Use examples like Bechara et al. study
  • Neuroplasticity:
    • Study changes with techniques such as MRI and fMRI
    • Examples include Lu et al. on socioeconomic status

Study and Essay Strategies

  • Short Answer Responses:
    • Use one technique and one study
  • Essays:
    • Consider using additional studies
    • Potentially study a second technique for limitations

Additional Considerations

  • Bonus Overlaps:
    • Include research methods and ethical considerations
    • Examples: True experiments, informed consent, anonymity

Study Resources

  • Revision Guides: Recommendations on technique study guides
  • Video Tutorials: Continued series planned for overlaps in neurotransmitters and hormones

Conclusion

  • Preparation Tips:
    • Focus on depth of understanding
    • Use overlaps to consolidate revision
  • Final Note: Keep working hard and good luck with your exams!