Explain how the amygdala plays a role in the stress response.
Once the amygdala identifies a potential threat, it processes the emotional significance of the stimulus which then determines the appropriate response.
Give an example of anecdotal research.
Describe "localization of brain function."
An IDEA/THEORY that each area of the brain has a specific function.
What are Heuristics and what are the pros and cons of them?
Mental shortcuts used to simplify the decision making process. They are quick and very useful for everyday things, but they can lead to cognitive bias.
Explain the pros and cons of "System Two" thinking.
Pros: rational processing, involves rigorous analysis, and checks for biases and fallacies. Cons: takes a lot of mental effort and time; difficult to multitask.
What is a dependent variable in an experiment?
The DV is the factor the researchers measure in the study – it is the effect of the IV.
Use an example to explain the three cognitive process that lead to making a decision (Processing, judgement, decision making)
Give one example of "localization."
the amygdala = emotional response; hypothalamus = regulating hormones; PFC = decision making and impulse control; etc...
Which part of the brain is commonly linked with planning and impulse control?
The Prefrontal Cortex
WHO outlined the "Dual Processing Model for Thinking and Decision Making"?
Daniel Kahneman
Explain how the hypothalamus plays a role in the stress response.
The hypothalamus activates the adrenal glands to release stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, initiating the "fight or flight" response.
Give an example of empirical research.
What are Confounding Variables?
A confounding variable influences the dependent variable, and also correlates with or causally affects the independent variable.
What is the difference between a true lab experiment and a quasi-experiment?
In a true lab experiment, the IV is manipulated by the researcher while in a quasi-experiment, there is a pre-existing difference that is not manipulated.
What is the difference between social dominance today compared to in caveman times?
What is a longitudinal study?
In a longitudinal study, researchers repeatedly examine the same individuals to detect any changes that might occur over a period of time.
What two groups must always exist in an experiment? What is the difference between them?
A treatment group and a control group
What is an independent variable in an experiment?
The IV is the factor in a study that psychologists CHANGE in order to see the effect it might have on behavior.
Explain the pros and cons of "System One" thinking.
Pros: uses minimal mental effort, process many tasks at once, use heuristics to make quick decisions. Cons: susceptible to bias and irrational results.
What is the difference between a THEORY and a MODEL?
Theory = Tries to explain WHY a phenomenon occurs; Model = Tries to illustrate HOW a phenomenon occurs.
Name two longitudinal studies.
Grafman et al. (1996) and Caspi et al. (2002)
What are the main parts of a study that you should be able to write about in an SAQ?
Aim, participants, methodology/procedure, results, conclusion
What are Extraneous Variables?
anything that could influence the dependent variable in an experiment
What is most important in a "culture of honor"?
Pride and defending one’s honour are important. If threatened, defending oneself with violence is acceptable..