IB Psychology ERQ Preparation Notes

Command Terms in ERQ

• Possible Command Terms:

• Evaluate, Contrast, Discuss, To What Extent.

  • Evaluate: Focuses on addressing both strengths and limitations of the theory, research, or concept presented in the prompt.

  • Discuss: A broader command term that allows exploration of either strengths or limitations, difficulties in studying the theory, and implications of the research; it encourages considering a range of arguments.

  • To what extent - To what degree

IB Psychology Biological Approach ERQ Test Overview

• Response Requirements: You will write ONE response with certain sections filled in for you due to time limits.

Assessment Criteria

Marks will be awarded for:

• Knowledge and Understanding: Demonstrating knowledge requires the use of relevant psychological research.

• Critical Thinking: Evidence that you have engaged with the material critically.

• Organization: How well you structure your response.

ERQ Prompts

• Prepare for one of the following topics:

  1. Discuss the use of one or more techniques used in the study of the brain and behavior.

  2. Discuss the role of hormones in human behavior.

  3. Discuss the use of one research method in the biological approach.

     • Note: Do not select genetic research; instead, choose from case study, experiment, etc.

Preparation Steps

1. Sample ERQ Review: Check the sample ERQ on Emotion & Memory provided in InThinking. It demonstrates how to effectively write using the "Discuss" command term.

2. Define Terms: Ensure you can define/explain essential terms related to your chosen topic.

3. Select Studies: Choose 2-3 relevant studies to discuss within your essay.

4. Plan Your Answer: Prepare an outline or notes for each potential prompt before class on Monday.

   • Outline Requirements: The outline must be printed for use during the ERQ, as computer access will not be provided.

   • Utilize Resources: Reference the chart on the following page to aid in your preparation.

Preparation Outline Structure

• CONCEPT: Define what the concept is and provide background information.

• SUPPORT: List the studies you will utilize to support your discussion.

• LINK: Explain how each study connects back to the prompt.

Topics for Consideration

• Brain Techniques: Choose 1 or 2 techniques to discuss.

• Hormones: Select 1 or 2 hormones to link to behavior.

• Research Methods: Focus on methods other than twin/adoption studies; opt for experiments, case studies, etc.

Keep in mind!!

• An ERQ is 800-1,000 words long

• IB Psych ERQ structure

• Structure Elements:

  1. Introduction:

     • Present the research question or prompt.

     • Briefly outline the importance of the topic.

     • State your thesis or main argument.

  2. Concept Definition:

     • Clearly define key terms and concepts that relate to the prompt.

     • Provide relevant background information.

  3. Body Paragraphs:

     • Organize paragraphs logically, each addressing a specific aspect of the prompt.

     • Include research studies, theories, and examples to support your discussion.

     • Each paragraph should include:

       • Topic Sentence: Introduce the main idea of the paragraph.

       • Evidence: Discuss studies, findings, or theories that support your argument.

       • Analysis: Explain how the evidence connects to your thesis and the prompt.

     • Aim for 2-3 body paragraphs to explore your argument thoroughly.

  4. Counterarguments:

     • Address potential counterarguments or alternative perspectives.

     • Discuss their relevance and why your position remains strong.

  5. Conclusion:

     • Summarize your main points.

     • Restate the significance of your findings.

     • Optional: Propose areas for future research or implications of your argument.

  Keep in mind:

  • Use clear, concise language.

  • Ensure that each section logically follows from the previous one.

  • Proofread for clarity and coherence before submission.

Brain Techniques:

Neuroimaging such as:

• fMRI (Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Used to examine brain activity by measuring changes in blood flow.

• PET (Positron Emission Tomography): Provides insights into metabolic processes and neurotransmitter activity in the brain.

• EEG- Electrical activity in the brain using electrodes placed on the scalp

• MRI- Uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of brain structure. Identifies brain regions and assesses structural differences

Example in the context of a study

• Mcguire (2000)

• Squire (2004)

Hormones in Psychology (psychology today)

• Molecular substances produced by multicellular organisms

• Allow parts of the body to signal and communicate with one another

• Regulate physiology and behavior, such as: Sleep, digestion, sexual function, stress, and mood

• Made up of amino acids proteins, fatty acids, or as steroids

Types of Hormones

Adrenaline: Is a hormone and neurotransmitter produced by the adrenal glands.

• • Increases heart rate and blood pressure:

  • Expands air passages in the lungs:

  • Increases blood sugar levels: Provides immediate energy to the body.

  • Redirects blood flow: Blood is directed away from non-essential functions (like digestion) to essential functions (like muscles).

• Role in Human Behavior:

  • Adrenaline stimulates various physiological responses associated with danger and stress, including heightened alertness, improved reaction times, and increased strength.

  • In psychological contexts, the release of adrenaline can influence behaviors such as aggression, fear responses, and competitive behavior.

Dopamine:

• A neurotransmitter and hormone released by the brain during activities such as eating, sex, and exercise

• A feel good hormone

• Dopamine contributes to feelings of pleasure and motivates humans and other animals to seek out rewarding activities

Testosterone: Hormone associated with increased libido, muscle mass, and energy levels, influencing behaviors related to aggression and dominance.

Albert et al 1986:

• Aim: Investigate effects of changing testosterone levels of male rats

• Placed rats in cases and identified “alphas”

• They measured their aggression when a non-aggressive rat was introduced

• Went under different surgical groups

• Castration

• Castration with tubes of testosterone

• Fake castration

• Castration with empty tubes

• Decrease in aggression was found for animals who had decreased testosterone

Research Methods

• True experiments

• Case Studies: Are conducted on participants when studying the brain and behaviour when patients have interesting ad unique brain damage

• Correlational studies

• The use of different technologies does not count as its own research method, but is used as a part of the experiment