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Explain one ethical consideration that the researchers of the monkeying around study would have to consider when conducting their investigation - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 3
Question 3
Explain one ethical consideration that the researchers of the monkeying around study would have to consider when conducting their investigation. Research evidence, ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain one ethical consideration that the researchers of the monkeying around study would have to consider when conducting their investigation - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 3
Step 1
Explain one ethical consideration that the researchers of the monkeying around study would have to consider when conducting their investigation.
Answer
One ethical consideration the researchers would have to consider is the care and accommodation of the monkeys. According to the Animal Scientific Procedures Act (1986), it is crucial that the monkeys are housed in suitable cages that provide enough space and appropriate environmental conditions. This ensures that they can live comfortably and reduces the stress associated with captivity. Therefore, the researchers must ensure that the monkeys' welfare is a priority throughout the study.
Step 2
Using research evidence, explain how operant conditioning could support the findings of the monkeying around study.
Answer
Operant conditioning can explain the results observed in the study through the following points:
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Positive Reinforcement Application (AO2): In Condition 1, monkeys received food treats after pressing the correct button sequence five times in a row, which reinforces the behavior. This is evident as the mean number of correct button presses was 22 out of 30 attempts, indicating that the reward encouraged the monkeys to continue the behavior.
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Variable Ratio Reinforcement (AO2): In Condition 2, the variance in button presses required before receiving a reward can be linked to the idea of variable ratio reinforcement. The monkeys engaged more frequently, with 55 attempts recorded, suggesting that the unpredictability of rewards encouraged them to maintain high levels of engagement to maximize their chances of earning treats.
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Punishment Application (AO2): In Condition 4, where incorrect button sequences led to electric shocks, this aligns with the principle of punishment in operant conditioning. The significantly low number of button presses (4 attempts) demonstrates how aversive consequences can suppress unwanted behaviors.
This applies directly to the findings, suggesting that while rewards improve learning and behavior consistency, punishments may drastically reduce unwanted actions, supporting the study's conclusions.