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Evaluate the classic study by Loftus and Palmer (1974). - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 9 - 2019 - Paper 2
Question 9
Evaluate the classic study by Loftus and Palmer (1974).
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Evaluate the classic study by Loftus and Palmer (1974). - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 9 - 2019 - Paper 2
Step 1
Aim of the Study
Answer
The primary aim of Loftus and Palmer's (1974) study was to investigate how the phrasing of a question about speed would influence participants' estimation of the speed of vehicles involved in traffic accidents. By manipulating the language used in questions, specifically the verbs used to describe the collisions, the study sought to determine if these variations impacted memory recall.
Step 2
Experiment Design
Answer
In their first experiment, 45 participants were shown the same seven films of traffic accidents. They were then administered a questionnaire with similar questions, differing only in the wording of how the collision was described. For instance, phrases like 'smashed', 'collided', 'bumped', and 'hit' were used to see the effect of different intensity verbs on speed estimation.
Step 3
Findings
Answer
The results revealed that participants who were asked about the speed when the cars 'smashed' estimated the speed to be significantly higher (around 10.46 mph) compared to those who were asked using the word 'contacted' (approximately 31.8 mph). This suggests that the wording of a question can create a reconstructive effect on memory.
Step 4
Validity and Generalizability
Answer
While the study effectively demonstrated the influence of wording on memory, it has limitations regarding validity. The scenario presented was an artificial setup, lacking the emotional engagement associated with real traffic accidents. Additionally, all participants were students, which may not adequately represent the larger population, particularly older individuals with more driving experience.
Step 5
Reliability of Results
Answer
Despite its strengths, the study's reliability may be questioned because the results could be impacted by the participants only viewing the accidents on video, hence lacking the emotional context of witnessing a real accident. The study employed quantitative measures in the form of estimated mph, which adds objectivity to the analysis, although it lacked interpretation regarding the participants' emotional responses.