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Monkeying around Researchers wanted to investigate the role of reward in the behaviour of monkeys - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 3
Question 3
Monkeying around Researchers wanted to investigate the role of reward in the behaviour of monkeys. They gave monkeys a task where they had to learn a sequence of t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Monkeying around Researchers wanted to investigate the role of reward in the behaviour of monkeys - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 3
Step 1
Explain one ethical consideration that the researchers of the monkeying around study would have to consider when conducting their investigation.
Answer
One ethical consideration is the welfare of the monkeys involved in the study. Researchers must ensure that the monkeys are kept in suitable conditions, as outlined by the Animal Scientific Procedures Act (1986). This includes providing appropriate housing, appropriate numbers of monkeys per cage, and ensuring they have access to water throughout the study.
Step 2
Using research evidence, explain how operant conditioning could support the findings of the monkeying around study.
Answer
Operant conditioning principles can explain the findings of the study through several mechanisms:
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Positive Reinforcement: In Condition 1, the provision of food treats for pressing the correct sequence reinforces the behaviour, which can explain the higher number of attempted button presses (30 attempts) and correct sequences (22 sequences).
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Variable Ratio Reinforcement: In Condition 2, the monkeys received food treats based on varying attempts and rewards. This setup aligns with operant conditioning theories that suggest variable reinforcement schedules can boost motivation and performance, as shown by the highest number of button presses (55 attempts).
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Punishment: In Condition 4, the mild electric shock for incorrect responses aligns with the concept of punishment in operant conditioning, which likely resulted in the lowest number of attempts (4) and correct sequences (2). This demonstrates how negative reinforcement can deter certain behaviours.