1. Neuroscience has many positive applications in contemporary society; however the ethical implications are debatable’. Discuss.
In conclusion, neuroscience is still a new form of psychology that has not yet been fully explored and as a result should be used sparingly, with the full knowledge that what is being used or said may not be fully tested and so could have some adverse side effects or results. Despite these ethical implications, the field of neuroscience has great potential and a number of positive applications, to help people achieve their full potential and ensure people are not being punished for something they have no control over.
2. 'Mothers should stay at home for the first two years of their babies' lives. Discuss to what extent you agree with this statement. You should demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of psychological ideas and processes in your response.
In summary, although some research suggests that mothers should be primary caregivers and therefore stay at home for the first two years of their babies’ lives, society is changing and becoming more accepting of other forms of care such as fathers; who are equally as good at caring for infants. Therefore the statement may be true to a certain extent but may not be the best option for all families.
3. ‘It is important that children are both punished for wrong doing and praised when good to ensure that they learn the correct ways to behave’. With reference to psychological knowledge, discuss to what extent you agree with this statement.
Overall the use of conditioning techniques on children clearly has benefits to society and children in some cases as it can teach them the correct way to behave. However it is clear that only certain groups can benefit fully from conditioning (e.g. those with autism). Therefore conditioning techniques should be used on those who need it, rather than all children as they need to be able to develop their own skills and not simply be responding to society's beliefs about what should be rewarded and punished.
4. 'Eye-witness reports of children are less reliable than those of adults.' Discuss the reliability of eye-witness testimony with reference to the above context.
In short, the information suggests that children’s EWT if done in the correct way such as using investigative interview protocols can be as reliable if not more reliable than adult EWT. However if done incorrectly then children are much more susceptible to compliance and suggestibility.
5. Discuss the relevance of positive psychology in today’s society.
In conclusion, the evidence suggests that positive psychology is relevant in today’s society but maybe only to certain groups of people e.g. those with behavioural problems or those who are depressed.
Suggested Responses
- In conclusion, neuroscience is still a new form of psychology that has not yet been fully explored and as a result should be used sparingly, with the full knowledge that what is being used or said may not be fully tested and so could have some adverse side effects or results. Despite these ethical implications, the field of neuroscience has great potential and a number of positive applications, to help people achieve their full potential and ensure people are not being punished for something they have no control over.
- In summary, although some research suggests that mothers should be primary caregivers and therefore stay at home for the first two years of their babies’ lives, society is changing and becoming more accepting of other forms of care such as fathers; who are equally as good at caring for infants. Therefore the statement may be true to a certain extent but may not be the best option for all families.
- Overall the use of conditioning techniques on children clearly has benefits to society and children in some cases as it can teach them the correct way to behave. However it is clear that only certain groups can benefit fully from conditioning (e.g. those with autism). Therefore conditioning techniques should be used on those who need it, rather than all children as they need to be able to develop their own skills and not simply be responding to society's beliefs about what should be rewarded and punished.
- In short, the information suggests that children’s EWT if done in the correct way such as using investigative interview protocols can be as reliable if not more reliable than adult EWT. However if done incorrectly then children are much more susceptible to compliance and suggestibility.
- In conclusion, the evidence suggests that positive psychology is relevant in today’s society but maybe only to certain groups of people e.g. those with behavioural problems or those who are depressed.