Formula sheets, the key method steps for every topic and 8 practice problems, with full solutions at the back.
Which statement best describes top-down processing in perception?
Participants held a hand in painfully cold water for 60 seconds in one trial, and in another for 60 seconds plus 30 more seconds at a slightly warmer temperature. Most chose to repeat the longer trial. Why?
In Kohlberg's theory, a person who judges right and wrong mainly by avoiding punishment is at which level?
Adolescents take more risks in a driving game when friends are watching, but adults are less affected. Steinberg explains this mainly by:
According to equity theory, who is likely to feel uncomfortable in a relationship?
Which variation in Asch's study reduced conformity most dramatically?
Behavioural activation treats depression mainly by:
A 22-year-old has had hallucinations and delusions for two months, after which they fully resolve. No mood episode occurred. Which diagnosis fits best?
Answer: D · Expectations and knowledge shape how we interpret sensory input
Top-down processing uses prior knowledge, expectations and context to interpret sensations. Bottom-up processing starts from the stimulus features.
Answer: A · Memory of pain followed the peak and the end, not duration
Retrospective evaluations follow the peak-end rule: the milder ending made the longer trial seem less unpleasant overall, even though it contained more total pain.
Answer: C · Pre-conventional
Pre-conventional morality is based on punishment and self-interest; conventional on social rules and approval; post-conventional on universal principles.
Answer: B · Reward systems maturing earlier than prefrontal self-control
The dual systems model proposes that reward sensitivity rises in adolescence, while cognitive control matures more slowly, so peers can push decisions towards risk.
Answer: D · Both the over-benefited and the under-benefited partner
Equity theory states that people want the ratio of input to output to be fair. Under-benefited partners feel anger; over-benefited partners feel guilt.
Answer: A · One other confederate giving the correct answer
A single dissenting ally reduced conformity sharply (to about 5%), while increasing the majority beyond three or four people had little extra effect.
Answer: D · Increasing engagement in rewarding and valued activities
Behavioural activation schedules activities that bring pleasure or mastery, breaking the cycle of withdrawal and low reinforcement. It is an evidence-based treatment for depression.
Answer: A · Schizophreniform disorder
Schizophreniform disorder has the symptoms of schizophrenia but lasts between one and six months. Duration is the main feature separating it from brief psychotic disorder and schizophrenia.
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