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During the course you will have learned about the classic study by Raine et al - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 8 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 8
During the course you will have learned about the classic study by Raine et al. (1997). Evaluate the classic study by Raine et al. (1997).
Worked Solution & Example Answer:During the course you will have learned about the classic study by Raine et al - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 8 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
AO1: Overview of the Study
Answer
Raine et al. (1997) conducted a groundbreaking study focusing on the brains of 41 participants who pleaded Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (NGRI). The participants were specifically matched for sex and age (with an average age of 31.7 years) and were ensured not to have taken medication for a period prior to the study. This study utilized Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans to observe brain activity.
The primary finding was that individuals with NGRI displayed significantly less activity in the prefrontal and parietal regions of the brain compared to the control group.
Step 2
AO3: Evaluation of the Study
Answer
The uniqueness of the sample, which consisted of individuals charged with murder, raises questions regarding the generalizability of the findings to the broader population, particularly since the specific characteristics of this group can differ greatly from that of the general public.
Additionally, while the study attempted to control for variables such as age and medication, there are other confounding factors that could influence the results, such as the individual's background and personal circumstances.
Moreover, the PET scans used provided a limited snapshot of brain activity, and while they indicate correlation, they do not necessarily imply causation in terms of behavior and criminality. This might complicate the interpretation of the results.
Lastly, ethical considerations regarding the treatment of participants and the nature of the study itself cannot be overlooked, particularly since it delves into a socially sensitive topic. Overall, while the study was methodologically sound, its limitations in generalizability and depth of insight into causation highlight the need for further research.