Psychology Exam Q&A for
University Students
This exam Q&A pack provides 30 questions covering core psychology topics: research
methods, biological foundations, cognitive processes, developmental stages, social in-
fluences, and abnormal psychology. Designed for university students, it includes 20
multiple-choice, 6 true/false, and 4 short-answer questions with detailed explanations,
using relatable academic scenarios to enhance exam preparation and critical thinking.
1 Research Methods in Psychology
This section tests understanding of research methods through scenarios applicable to
student life.
1.1 Multiple-Choice Questions
1. A student tests whether group study improves exam scores. What is the
dependent variable?
a) Group study sessions
b) Exam scores
c) Student motivation
d) Study duration
Answer: b
Explanation: The dependent variable is measured to assess the effect of the inde-
pendent variable (group study), making exam scores the outcome variable.
2. A survey finds a link between social media use and stress in students.
Can it prove causation?
a) Yes, with a large sample
b) No, surveys show correlation, not causation
c) Yes, if conducted online
d) No, unless double-blind
Answer: b
Explanation: Surveys identify correlations (e.g., social media and stress) but can-
not control variables to establish causation, unlike experiments.
3. What ensures ethical participation in a study on student sleep habits?
a) Random sampling
b) Informed consent
c) Anonymity
d) Debriefing
Answer: b
Explanation: Informed consent ensures students understand the studys purpose,
risks, and rights, as required in ethical research on sleep habits.
4. A study on caffeine and attention with a p-value of 0.01 indicates:
a) A 1% chance of a true effect
b) Statistical significance
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, Psychology Exam Q&A
c) A 99% chance of error
d) No relationship
Answer: b
Explanation: A p-value below 0.05 suggests the results (e.g., caffeine affecting
attention) are statistically significant, unlikely due to chance.
1.2 True/False Questions
1. Random assignment in a study on study apps minimizes bias.
Answer: True
Explanation: Random assignment balances traits (e.g., prior academic perfor-
mance) across groups, reducing bias in app effectiveness studies.
2. Longitudinal studies cannot track student performance over time.
Answer: False
Explanation: Longitudinal studies follow the same students over time (e.g., across
semesters) to observe changes in performance or behavior.
1.3 Short-Answer Question
1. Why is a control group vital in a study on a new study technique for
students?
Answer: A control group, using standard methods, isolates the effect of the new
technique by providing a comparison baseline.
Explanation: For example, if testing a mindfulness-based study method, the con-
trol group uses traditional studying, ensuring score differences are due to the tech-
nique, not external factors like effort.
2 Biological Psychology
This section focuses on neural and physiological mechanisms relevant to students.
2.1 Multiple-Choice Questions
1. Which brain structure helps a student plan a study schedule?
a) Amygdala
b) Prefrontal cortex
c) Cerebellum
d) Medulla
Answer: b
Explanation: The prefrontal cortex manages executive functions like planning
and organization, crucial for creating effective study schedules.
2. Low levels of which neurotransmitter may contribute to a students de-
pressive symptoms?
a) Dopamine
b) Serotonin
c) Acetylcholine
d) GABA
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