1. Amir was given a popular computer video game and console for his birthday. He
began playing at the weekends with his friends but quickly wanted to play it more
and also even online. Amir is now playing the game during the week and into the
night. He has even said he is unwell when he was not, so he could have time off
school to continue playing the game. Amir has recently been diagnosed with
addiction.
Assess the possible contribution of both nature and nurture to Amir’s addiction to
his computer video game. (9)
2. After conflicts such as the First or Second World Wars, victims were left with
damaged brains. Soldiers who returned home with damaged brains found their level
of functioning was impaired. Some also returned home suffering from psychological
problems. Case studies of brain-damaged patients have helped researchers to
study the brain and from this, they have attempted to propose how the structure
and function of the brain affect human behaviour and processing. Damage to a
specific brain area can lead to theories about the function of that region, which
may change over time as greater knowledge is amassed through research using
improved technology.
Assess how psychological understanding of the brain has changed over time. (9)
3. Hashim has recently been diagnosed with depression. His family believe that the
disorder was caused by biological factors because his uncle and grandfather
suffered from depression. Hashim believes that recent life experiences may have
caused his disorder as recently his grandmother died and he also says he is
struggling at work.
Assess how far nature and nurture would account for Hashim’s disorder. (9