Are you gearing up for the prestigious UPSC Mains examination and looking for a competitive edge in the psychology optional paper? Look no further! In this comprehensive blog series, we’ve curated a decade’s worth of previous year questions for the Psychology Optional paper, spanning from 2013 to 2023. The UPSC Mains examination is known for its rigorous testing of candidates’ knowledge and analytical skills, and a well-thought-out strategy is key to success. Our collection of previous year questions will not only give you valuable insights into the exam pattern and the type of questions asked but will also help you tailor your preparation to meet the specific demands.
Psychology, as an optional subject, holds a unique place in the UPSC Mains examination. It offers a diverse range of topics, from the study of human behavior and mental processes to the principles of psychological testing and assessment. This blog series will not only serve as a treasure trove of past questions but will also offer guidance on how to approach and answer them effectively. Whether you are a seasoned aspirant or a newcomer to the world of UPSC, this series will be your go-to resource for mastering the Psychology Optional paper. So, let’s dive into the world of psychology and embark on a journey towards UPSC success!
Introduction Psychology – Previous Year Questions (UPSC CSE Mains Psychology Optional)
1. Describe the key assumptions on which psychology claims to be a science.
2. What is social constructionism? How does it challenge the mainstream psychology?
3. Examine the concerns for control, measurement and artifacts, and also indicate the threats they pose to the development of scientific psychology.
4. Elucidate the contributions of Sir Francis Gallon in shaping psychology.
5. How do novices differ from experts ?
6. Critically evaluate the cognitive approach to the study of psychological phenomena.
7. The discipline of psychology has grown and developed through debate between those who held that it should be modelled on natural science and those who subscribed to the view that it has to follow the model of social science. What arguments you envision for or against these views ? What position you would like to endorse and why ?
8. Explain how the creation of superordinate goals can help in resolving social conflicts.
9. What social and psychological factors come in the way of population control in India?
10. Why is it important to understand psychological processes for other disciplines of social science ?
11. Keeping in view the strife in current social situation, discuss how a psychologist can contribute towards providing interventions for such problems.
12. Describe how you used psychology to solve a social problem.
13. Explain how the fundamental understanding of psychology is helpful in the resolution of societal problems.
14. Describe how you used psychology to solve a social problem.
15. Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour. Evaluate.
16. Citing research evidences, bring out the role of cultural factors in socialization.
17. Explain the role of hypothesis in psychological researches with suitable e.g.
18. The edifice of behaviourism was built in loopholes of teleological approach in psychoanalysis. Evaluate.
19. How did structuralism contribute to the development of psychology as a discipline? Evaluate
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Psychology a popular optional subject for UPSC Mains?
A: Yes, Psychology is a relatively popular optional subject for the UPSC Mains examination. Many aspirants choose it due to its practical applications and its relevance in understanding human behavior, which can be beneficial in various administrative roles.
Q: What is the syllabus for the Psychology optional paper in UPSC Mains?
A: The UPSC paper comprises two papers, Paper-I and Paper-II. Paper-I covers topics such as the fundamentals of psychology, human development, and social psychology. Paper-II includes subjects like psychological testing, motivation, and environmental psychology, among others.
Q: How can I effectively prepare for the Psychology optional paper in UPSC Mains?
A: To prepare for the paper, it’s essential to understand the syllabus thoroughly. Reading standard textbooks, practicing previous year questions, and seeking guidance from experienced educators or mentors can greatly enhance your preparation.
Q: What is the significance of previous year questions for UPSC Psychology optional?
A: Previous year questions are crucial for preparation as they help candidates understand the exam’s pattern and focus areas. Analyzing these questions can guide you in tailoring your study strategy and mastering the subject.
Q: Are there any career prospects with a Psychology optional paper in UPSC?
A: Yes, there are career prospects beyond the UPSC examination with a background in this subject. The knowledge gained from studying psychology can be valuable in various administrative and policymaking roles, especially when dealing with issues related to human behavior, public health, education, and social welfare.
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