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Researchers wanted to test the effect of prenatal alcohol exposure on the development of the hippocampus in the brain - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 2 - 2017 - Paper 3
Question 2
Researchers wanted to test the effect of prenatal alcohol exposure on the development of the hippocampus in the brain. They administered repeated 1g/kg doses of pure... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Researchers wanted to test the effect of prenatal alcohol exposure on the development of the hippocampus in the brain - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 2 - 2017 - Paper 3
Step 1
Explain one practical application of the above study.
Answer
One practical application of this study is in the field of public health, specifically regarding awareness and prevention of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). By understanding how prenatal alcohol exposure can significantly reduce hippocampal cell development, health professionals can better educate expectant mothers about the risks associated with alcohol consumption during pregnancy. This awareness can lead to strategies that promote healthier behaviors in pregnant women, ultimately reducing the incidence of FAS and associated cognitive deficits in children.
Step 2
Justify whether the use of animals in this study was appropriate.
Answer
The use of animals in this study is justified as it allows for controlled experimentation on prenatal alcohol exposure that would be unethical or impractical in human subjects. Animal models, particularly rats, are often used in research to simulate human biological processes because their brain development patterns have significant similarities to humans. Furthermore, the study can monitor direct effects on offspring's brain development without risking human health. However, it is essential to acknowledge that results from animal studies may not always directly translate to human outcomes, which poses limitations regarding the generalizability of the findings.