A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

Which question format was used to assess speed in Loftus and Palmer’s first experiment?

1. "What color were the cars?"

2. "How fast were the cars going when they collided?"

3. "How many cars were involved?"

4. "Did the cars leave a skid mark?"

The correct answer is: "How fast were the cars going when they collided?"

The question format used to assess speed in Loftus and Palmer’s first experiment specifically focused on the participants' estimation of vehicle speed in a particular context, which in this case was a collision. By asking "How fast were the cars going when they collided?" the experiment effectively prompted participants to provide a numerical estimate related to the speed of the cars involved in an accident. This approach was crucial for Loftus and Palmer’s investigation into the influence of phrasing on memory recall. The intent was to see how the wording of a question could manipulate participants' memories and perceptions of the event, which demonstrates the potential for suggestibility in eyewitness testimony. This method distinguishes it from other question formats presented in the options, which do not focus on speed or the specific circumstances of the accident.