A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

Which of the following is a major advantage of the Sperry et al (1968) study?

1. High participant variability

2. Objective and unbiased testing methods

3. Ability to control all confounding variables

4. Only using a small sample size

The correct answer is: Objective and unbiased testing methods

The study by Sperry et al. (1968) is renowned for its innovative and controlled methods that provided insightful data on split-brain patients. One of the major advantages was its objective and unbiased testing methods. This objectivity is crucial in psychological research as it reduces the potential for researcher bias and allows for reliable interpretations of the data. By employing a variety of tasks that assessed visual and tactile information processing, Sperry and his colleagues were able to measure the functions of each hemisphere independently in a systematic way. This structured approach to testing ensured that the results could be replicated and validated, contributing to the credibility of the findings. Other options lack the same level of significance in terms of methodological rigor. For instance, while participant variability can be beneficial in certain studies for generalizability, it can also introduce confounding factors that obscure results in this specific context. Controlling confounding variables is essential, but no study can completely eliminate all such variables; instead, the rigorous testing methods highlighted by option B play a vital role. Lastly, using a small sample size, while manageable, often leads to issues with generalization and statistical power, making it less desirable compared to the objective measures employed in the study.