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Jay and his friends are 17 year-olds and are all learning to drive a car - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 5 - 2022 - Paper 3
Question 5
Jay and his friends are 17 year-olds and are all learning to drive a car. Some of his friends are studying for their theory test and some are practising for their pr... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Jay and his friends are 17 year-olds and are all learning to drive a car - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 5 - 2022 - Paper 3
Step 1
AO1: Explain biological psychology concepts
Answer
Biological psychology focuses on the interaction between biological processes and human behavior. Key concepts include:
- The role of the temporal lobe, which is crucial for storing memories. The hippocampus within it transfers information from the short term to the long term memory.
- Hormones, such as testosterone, are linked to behaviors like aggression. Higher levels of testosterone are associated with increased aggressive tendencies.
- A genotype inherited from parents interacts with environmental factors to shape an individual's development and potential. For example, certain genetic predispositions can enhance driving skills.
- The dopamine reward pathway is activated during pleasurable activities. This pathway releases dopamine, reinforcing behaviors that are viewed as rewarding.
Step 2
AO2: Apply biological psychology to Jay and his friends
Answer
In the context given:
- Oscar's struggles with driving tests may be linked to memory issues, suggesting potential problems with the hippocampus in transferring information, which could hinder his ability to remember road signs.
- Jay’s experience could be influenced by elevated testosterone levels from a competitive environment, such as Go Karting and watching F1 racing, which may motivate him to drive fast and take risks. This could lead to his failure during the practical test due to speeding.
- Nishka’s driving skills may be enhanced by a genotype that predisposes her to better visuospatial abilities, allowing her to navigate effectively, although her reliance on a Sat Nav poses a question about her organic memorization of routes.
Step 3
AO3: Evaluate the implications of biological psychology
Answer
The application of biological psychology can offer insights into driving behaviors:
- Studies suggest that deficiencies in the hippocampus can impair memory transfers between short-term and long-term, as seen with Oscar.
- Research on hormones reveals correlations between testosterone and aggression or risk-taking, which may explain Jay's need for speed when driving.
- Genetic research indicates that certain genes linked to visuospatial abilities might be significant for driving skills, supporting the biological basis for enhanced driving capabilities.
- Learning theories may further elucidate Jay’s behavior, as he emulates his role models like his favorite F1 driver, suggesting that not all driving behavior can be attributed solely to biological factors.