Can computer games improve working memory? A look at the positive effects of digital technology on cognition (and key studies)

Travis DixonCognitive Psychology, IB Psychology HL Extensions, Key Studies

The following has been adapted from our exam revision book: IB Psychology: A Revision Guide (available here). This is relevant for the working memory model and also for the HL extension: the (positive) effects of technology on cognitive processes and the reliability of cognitive processes. In this blog we look at the positive effects of computer games and other technology …

Key Study: Bandura’s Bobo Doll (1963)

Travis DixonCriminology, Developmental Psychology, Key Studies, Social and Cultural Psychology, Studies and Theories

Introduction In one of his earlier research studies (1961), Bandura showed that children exposed to an aggressive model would later copy those same aggressive behaviours, even if the child was in a different setting. This supports the idea that behavior can be learned through observation, which is the major claim of Social Learning Theory (SLT). TV and films have become …

Tajfel and Turner’s Social Identity Theory

Travis DixonKey Studies, Social and Cultural Psychology, Studies and Theories

Why does my blog have three different posts explaining social identity theory? Because for the first few years teaching this theory I had to write it out for myself to fully comprehend it. It’s difficult to understand at first. My best advice is to always remember that its’ a theory of intergroup conflict (e.g. prejudice and discrimination), so think of real …

Key Study: Conformity – Asch (1955)

Travis DixonKey Studies

Background Information Humans are social animals, formign groups and strong bonds naturally. As such, it’s not hard to see the many ways that belonging to a group is important. Conformity is one effect that can happen as a result of this need to belong. Conformity is when behaviour is modified in order to fit in with a larger group. Solomon …