Page 1 of 16 Assessment Resource Level 2 Psychology 27690, Analyse the application of theories in fields of psychology Credits: 6 Teacher guidelines: The following guidelines are supplied to enable teachers to carry out valid and consistent assessment using this internal assessment resource. Context/setting: In this activity students will analyse the application of theories in psychology. Students will answer focus questions in relation to a given case study. Students will have opportunity to research theories relating to the different Fields studied in class as well as use their class notes. As part of the teaching programme you will work through three fields to demonstrate knowledge of psychological theories related to psychological practice. A range of activities needs to be offered in class which will help students understand the varied fields of psychological theory, research and practice. You will also give students opportunities to study the human contexts in which psychological is applied. Information on psychology as it is practiced in New Zealand is available from the New Zealand Psychological Society, http://www.psychology.org.nz, and The New Zealand Psychologists Board, http://www.psychologistsboard.org.nz/. Conditions: Assessment for this standard will be to analyse a case study and apply relevant psychological theory from three different fields to explain the behaviour described. The case study will be focused on a real life situation based on a New Zealand context that has been researched and discussed by the whole class. The case study can contain material that includes, but is not limited to -transcripts of interviews, media clippings, extracts and summaries of academic research and marketing material. These will be presented in a methodical manner and be supported by linking statements and a written introduction and conclusion. Before assessment begins, teachers should guide students through the process of exploring texts, reading for meaning, and locating relevant information. It is expected that teachers will spend at least one week introducing students to the concepts surrounding fields of psychological practice, the theories underpinning each, and how they are applied in real life situations. Students will be given one week of class time to gather relevant information for their analysis of this case study. Work can also be done out of class time. As students are able to undertake research outside of class time, they will be required to complete a declaration of authenticity. New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 2 of 16 Fields refers to human contexts in which psychology is applied. These include but are not limited to - sport, forensic, health, education, environment, industrial and organisational, media, clinical and counselling. Theories are organising ideas or concepts that describe, explain or predict behaviour or mental processes. These may include abnormal, comparative, developmental, individual differences, social psychology. Scenarios refer to situations that have occurred, or are likely to occur, in every day existence. Examples include but are not limited to - sporting situations where motivation theory can be applied, health situations such as smoking where theories of personal behaviour can be applied, or education situations such as teaching where learning theory can be applied. A justified argument is one supported by published research or recognised psychological theory. It is expected that the scenario will be based on a New Zealand context and should be sensitive to safety, privacy, gender, cultural, and other individual needs. Information on psychology as it is practiced in New Zealand is available from the New Zealand Psychological Society, http://www.psychology.org.nz. References may be oral, visual and/ or written and may be selected from one or several text types. Texts should be appropriate to Level 7 of the NZC, or have characteristics that enable students to meet the expected level of understanding. Assessment of this standard also provides opportunities for students to develop aspects of the key competencies of the NZC. Students need to keep a record of all the source material they use. A suggested reference record for source material has been provided. To encourage students into the habit of using citation styles as used by psychologists across the world, teachers can teach them how to cite references using the American Psychological Association (APA) citation style. Guidance on APA citation style can be found through http://www.apastyle.org/ Where student work is to be presented for assessment, constructive feedback should not compromise authenticity but can validly include suggestions about areas where further developments are needed. Students should have the opportunity to receive feedback to edit, revise and polish their work before assessment judgements are made. Providing the scenario: Assessment for this standard requires students to analyse how theories from three fields from within psychology explain behaviour in a given scenario. This scenario must be broad enough to allow students to explore the three fields chosen. The scenario can be based on academic research. New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 3 of 16 An example of suitable scenarios could include: A consideration of a local sports club and its members. Sports psychology Motivation theory can be considered to examine how amateur players are motivated to compete after a busy weeks work. Health psychology – local clubs, due to their position at the heart of communities, can work with health initiatives like anti-drink driving programmes and Push-Play. Organisational psychology can be used to examine how clubs maintain voluntary participation and raise funds. A study into the issue of drugs (controlled substances) and their use and abuse in society. Clinical psychology – theories in abnormal psychology and treatment e.g. Serotonin levels and the use of anti-depressants. Health psychology – theories within individual differences, environmental factors and risks linked to drug abuse also theories as to tolerance and addiction. Sports psychology – Motivational theory to examine the pressure on athletes to take performance enhancing substances, the effect of specific banned substances within sports and their effect on athletes’ behaviour. An exploration of why athletes are at a suggested increased risk of drug abuse. A study of a multinational company with branches in New Zealand. Industrial psychology can be used to consider how staff are recruited, trained and rewarded. Environmental psychology can be considered to examine where branches are located in relation to socio-economic populations. Marketing psychology can be used to consider how organisations create brands, manage customer expectations, and create pricing strategies. The given scenarios need to be supported with a range of resources to enable students to demonstrate understanding of fields of psychology and how these are applied. The supporting resources may include: Guest speakers Academic research Field trip Business and marketing textbook examples Advertising e.g. adverts, packaging, company mission statements, use of sponsorship Documentaries and news reports Websites Additional information: Teaching and learning guidelines that inform psychology as it is taught in New Zealand can be found at http://www.tki.org.nz/ncea/. New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 4 of 16 Level 2 Psychology 27690, Analyse the application of theories in fields of psychology Credit: 6 All Blacks Do Cry: John Kirwan raising the awareness of Depression in Aotearoa/New Zealand Student Instructions Sheet During your Psychology programme in class, your teacher will work through three fields to demonstrate knowledge of psychological in practice. You will do a range of activities in class which will help you understand the concepts surrounding fields of psychology, the theories underpinning each, and how they are applied in different scenarios. Your assessment task will be to analyse a given case study based on a New Zealand scenario that has been researched and discussed by the whole class. You will be given one week of class time to gather relevant information to analyse your case study. Work can also be done out of class time. As you will be able to undertake research outside of class time, you will be required to complete a declaration of authenticity. Your analysis of the case study can contain material that includes, but is not limited to transcripts of interviews, media clippings, extracts and summaries of academic research, marketing material, and case studies. You will present these in a methodical manner and support them by linking statements and with an introduction and conclusion. Before assessment begins, your teacher will guide you through the process of exploring texts, reading for meaning, and locating relevant information. As part of your Psychology programme your teacher will work with you to source reference texts or other materials. Keeping a record of reference or sourced material As you complete your analysis you will need to keep a record of all the source material you will use. Your source material can include books, websites, podcasts, journals, newspapers, magazines, photographs. Draw up a record sheet so that you can record your sources in an ongoing way over the course of work.. Guidance on APA citation style can be found through To get you into the habit of using citation styles as used by psychologists across the world, it is suggested you cite your references using the American Psychological Association (APA) citation style. Guidance on APA citation style can be found through http://www.apastyle.org/. Example of reference record Source description APA Reference Book – Psychology in Weatherall, A., Wilson, M., Harper, D., McDowall, J., (2007) Aotearoa/New Psychology in Aotearoa/New Zealand. Pearson: Auckland. Zealand New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 5 of 16 Example of an online article describing John Kirwan’s involvement with Depression awareness campaign. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid= 10405228 Date accessed: 21/07/2011 Assessment guide For achieved Identify and describe, with supporting evidence, the application of theories in fields of psychological practice in terms of how they explain behaviour in given scenarios. For merit For excellence The analysis includes a comparison of the way that the theories explain behaviour in the given scenarios. The key points of similarity and difference between the theories within the fields of psychological practice, and their respective explanation of the behaviour, must be identified and discussed. The analysis includes a comprehensive comparison of the way that the theories explain behaviour and a justification of the theoretical position that explains behaviour in the given scenarios. A justified position must be argued for each of at least two different fields of psychological practice. Case study: A campaign to promote awareness of depression Case study guidelines To complete this assessment: Read through the case study background information given to you. Read the accompanying questions. You will be allowed one week of class time to gather information to support your answers and to complete the written task. Your answers should include relevant theories to answer the questions from the three Fields you have studied in class (Clinical, Health and Sports psychology). Sample scenario: All Blacks Do Cry: John Kirwan raising the awareness of Depression in Aotearoa/New Zealand Apply your knowledge of psychological theory from the different Fields you have studied (Clinical, Health and Sport psychology) to answer the focus questions. Ensure you have answered the questions within each of the Field sections including relevant theories to support your answer. Your answers should use psychological theory to explain the behaviour discussed in relation to the case study of John Kirwan, his battle with depression and his involvement with advertising initiatives aimed to increase awareness of the illness. New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 6 of 16 Sample Case study stimulus: John Kirwan to front new depression campaign Tuesday Oct 10, 2006 Former All Black John Kirwan is to front a $6.4 million government depression awareness campaign. The three-year National Depression Initiative, announced today by Associate Health Minister Jim Anderton and paid for out of the existing Suicide Prevention Strategy budget, aims to raise awareness of depression. "We know that up to 90 per cent of suicides are caused by depression and that each year 500 New Zealanders are dying by suicide," Mr Anderton said. "If we can raise awareness and reduce the impact that depression has on people's lives, hopefully we can reduce the number of lives being lost to suicide every year." Former All Black John Kirwan, who is fronting an ad campaign on depression. He welcomed the involvement of Kirwan, who himself suffered from depression over the course of his All Blacks career, as frontman for the advertising campaign. Mr Anderton said the World Health Organisation had projected depression would be second only to cardiovascular disease as part of the "global burden" of disease. "We are not talking about people feeling down or moody. We know everyone feels like that at some time in their lives but some people continue to feel like that for long periods of time." The National Depression Initiative campaign would support new and existing primary health care and mental health promotion services. John Kirwan's depression campaign a success Friday Aug 6, 2010 The latest initiative from the Ministry of Health - a self-help programme featuring John Kirwan - is proving a success at helping depression sufferers. The Journal, a six-week online self-help programme featuring former All Black and depression campaigner Kirwan as a personal coach, was launched in June as part of the ministry's national depression initiative (NDI). Figures released by the ministry today show that of the 4485 people who had signed up to the programme, 70 had completed the entire course and 660 were halfway through. The figures also show the reported severity of participants' depression had improved for 83 per cent of participants, based on self-assessment scores prior to, during and after completing the programme. New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 7 of 16 The ministry said that while it was still early days, The Journal was proving to be a successful initiative that was reaching out to and engaging with the public. The NDI began with the popular television advertisements featuring a variety of kiwi celebrities, including Kirwan, relating their attempts to cope with depression in their own lives. News articles taken from NZHerald.co.nz (Date accessed: 21/07/2011) http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10405228 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10664169 Sample Task: With reference to the case study of John Kirwan, depression and campaigns aimed at increasing awareness of the illness, use your knowledge of psychological theory within the following Fields to complete the three tasks. Task 1: Clinical Psychology How might clinical psychologists explain what causes Depression? (Your answer should aim to compare two or more theories and evaluate, using supporting evidence, which is the strongest explanation). Task 2: Health Psychology Health Psychology takes a BioPsychoSocial approach to explain health and related behaviour. Using psychological theories explain how using John Kirwan as a figurehead for raising awareness of depression may help to reduce Depression as a health issue in New Zealand. (Your answer should aim to compare two or more theories and evaluate, using supporting evidence). Task 3: Sports Psychology What factors within professional sport might make professional sportspeople more at risk from developing Depression? Using psychological theories explain how these factors increase the susceptibility for professional sports people to develop depression. (Your answer should aim to compare two or more theories and evaluate, using supporting evidence, which is the strongest explanation). New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 8 of 16 Assessment Schedule 27690, Judgement Statements: Analyse the application of theories in fields of psychology Achieved Achieved with merit Achieved with excellence The candidate must analyse theories within different fields of psychology. This will involve the student explaining differences and/or similarities comparing and contrasting in the way that the theories explain behaviour in the particular scenario[s]. This will involve the student making comprehensive comparisons of the way that the theories explain behaviour and a justified argument supporting the theoretical position[s] that explains behaviour in the scenario. This will involve the student identifying and describing with supporting evidence how the theories explain behaviour in a particular real life setting Students will need to analyse two or more psychological theories within two or more Fields. E.g. the student is able to identify and apply at least two theories within the Field that are appropriate and correctly applied to the given scenario. This includes relevant supporting evidence and linking statements. Key points of similarity and difference between the theories and their respective explanation of the behaviour within the Field should be identified and discussed. Students will need to show at least three comparative points between the theories given in each Field in their explanation of behaviour in the scenario. Justification should be supported with evidence such as, (but not limited to) peer reviewed research results that are related to the criticism of the theory in its application to explaining the given behaviour. A justified position must be given with respect to at least two different Fields to achieve with excellence. New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 9 of 16 27690, Evidence Statements: Analyse the application of theories in fields of psychology Achieved Achieved with Merit Achieved with Excellence Analyse: Analyse in detail: Analyse in depth will involve the student describing how the theories explain behaviour in a scenario[s]. Students will need to analyse two or more psychological theories within two or more Fields. will involve the student explaining the comparative relationship in the way the theories explain behaviour in the particular scenario[s]. Students will need to show at least three comparative points between the theories given in each Field in their explanation of behaviour in the scenario[s]. will involve the student making a justified argument[s] that perceptively support the theoretical position[s] that explain[s] behaviour in the scenario[s]. A justified position must be given with respect to at least two different Fields to achieve with excellence. Comparisons should be made between the theories discussed: Three comparative points must be made between the theories discussed in each Field. Comparisons may take the form of a discussion of Similarities and differences. There is no definitively correct explanation for the cause of depression but students should be able to give perceptively justified argument[s] by using evidence. Similarities: The effectiveness of treatments stemming from the particular theory. E.g. Research analysing the effectiveness of SSRI drug treatments (such as Prozac) and their effectiveness could be used to support the Biochemical theory of depression. Example Field: Clinical Psychology Two or more theories should be identified these can come from within the same approach (Biological, Behavioural, Cognitive etc.) but must be different underlying mechanisms explaining depression. Biological theories: The medical model views psychological problems as illnesses with physical causes. Genes: Are often singled out as one of the factors of depression. From this viewpoint, people with a particular genetic makeup are seen to have a predisposition to depression Genetic theory and Biochemistry: people do not inherit depression as such. What they inherit are genes, and genes make proteins. Genetic differences could therefore present themselves as differences in biochemistry and thus influence depression. Therefore these Evidence could include, (but is not limited to): In counterargument to this support for the New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 10 of 16 Family studies: tendency for depression to be inherited in families (Oruc et al. 1998) Twin Studies: If genes are a factor in depression, then it would be expected that a higher proportion of identical twins would share the disorder. A number of studies have supported this e.g. In a Study of nearly 200 pairs of twins, when an MZ twin was diagnosed with unipolar depression there was a 46% concordance as opposed to only 20% in DZ twins (McGuffin et al. 1996). Biochemistry: differences in Neurotransmitters and neurotransmitter receptors. Unipolar depression is caused by low levels of serotonin and/or noradrenaline. Links to differences in hormonal levels such as cortisol, although as a stress hormone this may be identified as a result rather than a cause of depression. Behavioural theories: Theories from this perspective will highlight that depression, as behaviour, has been learnt due to the environment. two theories may simply be looking at the same explanation but at different levels of the same system. Behavioural theories identify the importance of the environment, Genetic theories also identify that concordance rates in MZ twins are not 100% (are actually less than 50%) so although genes may play a part it is also recognised that in some way the environment also has an effect (Leading to a Diathesis-Stress model). Therefore all the theories are similar (Biological, Behavioural, Cognitive) in recognising the environment has a part to play in the development of depression. Students could discuss that all the theories discussed are reductionist and deterministic in nature. Differences: Identification that although the Biological theories are focused primarily on the physical explanations they also identify an environmental trigger (DiathesisStress) but both the Behavioural and Cognitive explanations do not look at internal physical mechanisms. Difference between Biological theories biochemical theory, a student justifying a behavioural or cognitive standpoint may make reference to further research to make criticism of the biochemical theory. E.g. Biochemical changes associated with depression that SSRI’s treat may simply be symptoms of the disorder as opposed to the cause. In experiments where depressive-like states were induced in dogs, by teaching them that there is nothing that they can do to avoid electric shocks (similar to Seligman (1975), these states were accompanied by a reduction in noradrenaline and serotonin levels (Miller et al.1977). There is nothing genetic or biochemical that is wrong with the dogs. Their biochemistry changes as they learn that they cannot escape pain. Students can therefore use both strengths of the theory that they are choosing to justify as the strongest as well as weaknesses of the other theories. Their justifications should be supported by research evidence. In this example a strong position that the student may justify would be that of a diathesis-stress explanation of New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 11 of 16 identifying a predisposition from birth as Depression results from a lack of positive opposed to Behaviourist ideas of the reinforcement (rewards) and/or an excess blank slate or “Tabla Rasa” (Locke). of unpleasant experiences (punishments). Biological focus being predominantly on internal mechanisms, Behaviourist being Cognitive theories: Cognitive theories will entirely external (environmental) causes. state that people become depressed because of the way they think about themselves and their situation. Learned helplessness (Seligman, 1975). States people become depressed when they think they have no control over their lives and they themselves are responsible for their helplessness. Beck’s (1967) cognitive theory of depression. Peoples’ beliefs, attitudes and thought processes make them more vulnerable to depression: they have a depressive way of viewing and representing the world. Discussion of errors in thinking e.g. depression. This would allow the student to demonstrate knowledge of both the strengths and limitations of both internal (physiological explanations) and external/environmental ones identifying that each theory has its limitations in explaining depression but through diathesis-stress explanations these limitations can be largely reconciled. A diathesis-stress theory as being the strongest explanation may also be supported by the most effective treatment of depression currently being a combination approach to therapy, combining CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and Drug treatments (SSRI’s). Arbitrary inference Selective Abstraction Overgeneralisation How these thoughts can lead to a negative cognitive triad: Negative views of the self, the world and the future. New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 12 of 16 Example Field: Health Psychology Two or more theories should be identified. Students should identify theories explaining the proposed effect of using John Kirwan as a figurehead. Explanations should link to the importance of him as a male, successful and respected professional athlete in the National sport. Theories should be in accordance with the core principles of the Field of Health psychology: health behaviours are affected by not just biological but also psychological and social factors. Theories should explain how the depression awareness campaign is expected to have a positive impact on depression in New Zealand. Answers should include an explanation of how the use of role models and mass media advertising is thought to elicit behavioural change and therefore promote improvements in a populations’ health, whether it be sufferers seeking help or the public having improved understanding of the illness to help improve support. Comparisons should be made between the theories discussed: Two similarities and two differences must be made for the theories discussed in each Field. Students will show an understanding of how the different theories they have discussed have similarities and differences in the manner in which they explain that the Awareness campaign will help reduce the problem of depression in New Zealand. There are different theoretical explanations as to how the campaign will give benefit. Answers should highlight the similarities and differences between the theories explanations. E.g. Theories that may explain the effectiveness of such a campaign might include (but are not limited to): 1) Encourage people to recognise and become more responsive to depression 2) Highlight the importance of early identification and intervention A justified position will be made. This will include the student justifying which theory would be the strongest in explaining why this campaign would be effective in reducing the problems associated with depression in New Zealand according to the Field of Health psychology. Students should support the chosen theory with evidence, this may include (but is not limited to): Students answers may include, (but are not limited to) theories relating to the following aspects of depression and health psychology: 3) Assist people to recognise symptoms of depression in themselves and others 4) Increase awareness of effective interventions for depression, including self help strategies. A recent study (Jorm et al. 2006) explored why community surveys have found that some people believe that it is better to deal with depression alone rather than seek help. The study aimed to explore the characteristics of this group, using data from Depression in males: Students’ answers might compare: Published research relating to the theory and the proposed effect on depression (research population is not limited to New Zealand). Research may include data from surveys, interviews, case studies, experiments and observations. E.g. Encourage people to recognise and become more responsive to depression Males are an important target group for encouraging seeking help to deal with depression. New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 13 of 16 Reasoning for males being particularly at risk. Psychological theories that may explain this from a biopsychosocial model (E.g. stereotypical social roles that may put males at greater risk from depression and its effects, poor social network to talk through problems compared to women etc.) Stigmatisation surrounding mental health (specifically depression), which may lead at risk groups to be less likely to seek help or treatment. This may include the issue of the “Stickiness of psychodiagnostic labelling” on that individuals’ life in New Zealand society. Evidence that shows males are less likely to see health professionals. Concept of depression as a hidden disease, with many more people suffering than are diagnosed. Aims to improve awareness in New Zealand society. Using John Kirwan in order to challenge stereotypes of the illness. Whether the theory is identifying change to behaviour at an individual sufferers level or at a wider societal level. Do the theories argue improvement through changes to stereotypes towards depression Do the theories explain why the advertising campaign was designed as it was with the specific target and role model used being important factors. three Australian surveys: (1) a national survey of 1001 adults aged 18+ years; (2) a school survey of 552 students aged 14-16 years from two regions; (3) a survey of 577 young people aged 12-17 years from the Melbourne region. In all three surveys, participants who believed it would be helpful to deal with depression alone were contrasted with those who believed it would be harmful. In both adolescents and adults, belief in dealing with depression alone was associated with male gender, less favourable views about mental health professionals, more favourable views about using substances to deal with depression, and a more positive expectation about the outcome if treatment is not sought. Adolescents believing in dealing with depression alone had more favourable views about some potential helpers, such as church workers and pharmacists. In adults, but not adolescents, there was an association with the belief that depression is caused by personal weakness. In conclusion, factors encouraging dealing with depression alone are a belief that it is a selflimiting disorder, that substances are an effective way to deal with it and, in adults, that depression is due to personal weakness. Consistent with previous research, males are an important target New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 14 of 16 group for encouraging seeking help to deal with depression. In New Zealand, a recent survey (Gendall, 2006) showed that most New Zealanders are sympathetic to people with mental illness. However, compared to people with a physical illness, those with a mental illness are more likely to be seen as less trustworthy, less productive and less employable. Further, the survey showed that stigmatism of mental illness varies depending on the specific circumstances involved. For example, people were found to be less willing to have a personal relationship with someone with a mental illness, to have them marry someone related to them, or to have them teach or look after children. On the other hand, most people believed someone with experience of mental illness is just as intelligent as anyone else, and should be hired like any other person, if they are qualified for a job. It was noted that stigmatization is a relative phenomenon. Some measure of stigmatism applies to anyone with an observable physical condition: but stigmatism of mental illness is higher than that of physical illness. While few respondents believed that depression was something to be embarrassed about or kept secret, between New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 15 of 16 40 and 50 per cent agreed that someone with this condition would lose friends or opportunities if people knew they were having treatment. The author suggested that perhaps getting treatment implies the condition has been officially diagnosed, which in turn implies a level of severity likely to result in stigmatisation. If so, it is not surprising that many experiencing mental illness do not seek treatment. The author notes that the survey results are in line with findings by the Ministry of Health and confirm that the Ministry's “Like minds, like mine” advertising campaign has improved public attitudes to and understanding of mental health. The survey involved 1020 New Zealanders aged 18 and over. It is part of an international study of the stigmatism of mental illness, involving 16 countries. Such research findings demonstrate the important aspect of changing the publics’ response and beliefs regarding depression particularly within the target adult male population of this John Kirwan campaign. (Jorm AF, Kelly CM, Wright A, et al. (2006). Belief in dealing with depression alone: results from community surveys of adolescents and adults. Journal of Affective Disorder 96(1-2), pp 59-65). Gendall, P (2006). New Zealanders' New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016 Page 16 of 16 Attitudes to Mental Illness. Stigma in Global Context Mental Health Study, Department of Marketing, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand. New Zealand Qualifications Authority 2016