A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

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Prepare for the A Level Psychology Exam with our quiz. Access flashcards, multiple choice questions, and detailed explanations to enhance your study experience and boost your confidence.

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What was the aim of Baron-Cohen et al's 1997 study?

To explore genetic factors in autism
To test emotions recognition through photographs of eyes
To identify language deficits in autism
To assess IQ differences in children with autism

The correct answer is: To test emotions recognition through photographs of eyes

The aim of Baron-Cohen et al.'s 1997 study was indeed to test emotion recognition through photographs of eyes. This research was pivotal in investigating Theory of Mind, which refers to the ability to attribute mental states to oneself and others. The study specifically focused on how individuals with autism spectrum conditions (ASC) may struggle with recognizing emotional cues from the eyes, leading to difficulties in social interactions. By using photographs of eyes showing various emotions, the researchers aimed to provide empirical evidence on the unique challenges faced by individuals with ASC regarding emotional understanding, which is a crucial aspect of social cognition. The other options do not align with the primary focus of the study. For instance, exploring genetic factors or assessing IQ differences pertains to broader areas of autism research but were not direct goals of this particular investigation. Language deficits, while relevant to autism, were not the subject of the study as it concentrated on visual emotional cues rather than verbal abilities.