This comprehensive practice test covers Unit 6 of the AP Psychology curriculum, focusing on social psychology. Designed to challenge and prepare you for the AP exam, this test delves into key concepts, theories, and research methodologies. Remember to focus on understanding the underlying principles, not just memorizing facts.
Section 1: Multiple Choice Questions
Instructions: Choose the best answer for each multiple-choice question.
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The fundamental attribution error refers to our tendency to: a) Overestimate situational factors and underestimate dispositional factors in explaining others' behavior. b) Overestimate dispositional factors and underestimate situational factors in explaining others' behavior. c) Equally weigh situational and dispositional factors when explaining others' behavior. d) Ignore both situational and dispositional factors when explaining others' behavior.
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Which of the following is NOT a key component of the elaboration likelihood model (ELM) of persuasion? a) Central Route b) Peripheral Route c) Cognitive Dissonance d) Message Source
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The bystander effect is most likely to occur when: a) An individual is alone and witnesses an emergency. b) A large group of people witnesses an emergency. c) The emergency is very serious and dangerous. d) The victim is clearly in need of help.
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Conformity, as studied by Asch, is most likely to occur when: a) The group is small and unanimous. b) The group is large and diverse. c) The individual has high self-esteem. d) The task is unambiguous.
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Obedience to authority, as demonstrated in Milgram's experiments, was highest when: a) The experimenter was absent. b) The learner was in the same room as the participant. c) The experimenter was perceived as an authority figure. d) The participant was personally responsible for the learner's pain.
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Groupthink is characterized by: a) Open discussion and critical evaluation of ideas. b) A suppression of dissent and a focus on group harmony. c) An increase in creativity and innovation. d) A high level of individual responsibility.
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Cognitive dissonance theory suggests that: a) We are motivated to reduce inconsistencies between our attitudes and behaviors. b) We are motivated to increase inconsistencies between our attitudes and behaviors. c) Our attitudes are unaffected by our behaviors. d) Our behaviors are unaffected by our attitudes.
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The just-world hypothesis suggests that: a) The world is inherently unfair. b) People generally get what they deserve. c) Suffering is random and unpredictable. d) Justice is only achieved through legal systems.
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Prejudice is a(n) __________, while discrimination is a(n) __________.: a) behavior; attitude b) attitude; behavior c) emotion; cognition d) cognition; emotion
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Which of the following is an example of a social trap? a) The Prisoner's Dilemma b) The Asch Conformity Experiment c) The Milgram Obedience Experiment d) The Bystander Effect
(Answer Key at the end of the document)
Section 2: Free Response Questions
Instructions: Answer the following free-response questions in complete sentences.
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Explain the difference between prejudice, stereotypes, and discrimination, providing an example of each. Be sure to address the cognitive, affective, and behavioral components involved.
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Describe the key findings of Milgram's obedience experiments and discuss the ethical considerations raised by this research. How did situational factors influence participants' behavior?
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Discuss the factors that contribute to both conformity and obedience. How do these concepts relate to real-world phenomena like groupthink and the bystander effect? Use specific examples to illustrate your points.
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Explain the concept of cognitive dissonance and provide a real-world example illustrating how people reduce dissonance. How does this theory relate to attitude change?
Answer Key (Section 1):
- b
- c
- b
- a
- c
- b
- a
- b
- b
- a
This practice test is designed to help you solidify your understanding of social psychology concepts. Remember to review your notes and textbook for a comprehensive understanding of the material. Good luck with your AP Psychology exam!
