The UPSC Civil Services Examination is one of the most prestigious and challenging competitive exams in India. To excel in the Mains stage of this examination, which is the second phase, candidates often choose an optional subject that aligns with their strengths and interests. Psychology, as an optional subject, has gained popularity over the years due to its interdisciplinary nature and the fact that it can be relatable to various aspects of general studies. To prepare effectively for UPSC Mains 2023, 2022, or any other year, aspirants must make judicious use of previous year papers. These papers offer invaluable insights into the exam pattern, question types, and the depth of knowledge required. For psychology optional, going through the previous year papers from 2013 to 2023 can help candidates understand the evolving trends, focus areas, and the level of proficiency expected by the UPSC examiners.
By analyzing the UPSC Mains psychology optional previous year papers from 2013 to 2023, aspirants can identify recurring themes and topics that are frequently asked, allowing them to prioritize their study efforts effectively. Moreover, these papers serve as excellent practice material for honing answer-writing skills, as they showcase the expected format, depth, and conciseness required for scoring well in the psychology optional paper. It’s essential for candidates to not only solve these papers but also to critically evaluate their responses to understand their strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, studying previous year papers can help candidates anticipate the kind of questions that might be asked in the upcoming exams and tailor their preparation accordingly. Overall, the strategic use of UPSC Mains psychology optional previous year papers is an indispensable tool for those aspiring to succeed in this demanding examination.
Question Paper Specific Instructions
- Please read each of the following instructions carefully before attempting questions :
- There are EIGHT questions divided in two SECTIONS and printed both in HINDI and in ENGLISH.
- Candidate has to attempt FIVE questions in all.
- Questions no. 1 and 5 are compulsory and out of the remaining, THREE are to be attempted choosing at least ONE from each section.
- The number of marks carried by a question / part is indicated against it.
- Answers must be written in the medium authorized in the Admission Certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this Question-cum-Answer (QCA) Booklet in the space provided. No marks will be given for answers written in a medium other than the authorized one.
- Word limit in questions, wherever specified, should be adhered to.
- Illustrate your answers with suitable sketches, maps and diagrams. These shall be drawn in the space provided for answering the question itself.
- Attempts of questions shall be counted in chronological order. Unless struck off, attempt of a question shall be counted even if attempted partly. Any page or portion of the page left blank in the answer book must be clearly struck off.
Psychology Optional Question Paper-1 (2019)
SECTION – A
1. Write short answers to the following in about 150 words each
(a) The edifice of behaviorism was built on the loopholes of the teleological approach in psychoanalysis. Evaluate.
(b) “Diagnostic and prognostic research are complementary to each other.” Explain with suitable examples.
(c) Explain the role of hypothesis in psychological research with suitable examples.
(d) How do we see objects in three dimensions? Discuss the factors influencing the same.
(e) In what ways is deviation IQ different from traditional IQ? Discuss.
2. (a) “Multistore model of memory best explains the nature of memory.” Evaluate the statement in theoretical perspective and empirical evidence.
(b) What is the significance of attachment to parents in the social and emotional well-being of a child? Illustrate from the perspective of developmental theories.
(c) How do environmental factors determine the sensation of hunger? Illustrate with examples.
3. (a) Differentiate between experimental and quasi-experimental designs. Evaluate the applications of quasi-experimental designs in psychological research.
(b) Explain how divergent thinking is different from convergent thinking. Discuss the methods to foster divergent thinking in children.
(c) What is achievement motivation? Discuss the projective technique as a method for assessing achievement motivation.
4. (a) Discuss the effects of stimulus-deprivation on human behavior with empirical evidence.
(b) How is the NEO Five-Factor Theory different from the 16 Personality Factors Theory? Explain.
(c) Illustrate that values can best be fostered during childhood. Discuss different methods for fostering moral and ethical values among school-going children.
SECTION – B
5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:
(a) Evaluate the ‘critical period’ hypothesis in language acquisition.
(b) “Discrimination and generalization are two complementary processes in skill learning.” Discuss with reference to operant conditioning.
(c) “Stereotypes can lead to the development of prejudice and discrimination.” Explain citing examples from Indian context.
(d) How did structuralism contribute to the development of psychology as a discipline? Evaluate.
(e) Why do most people experience geometrical illusions? Explain from the psychological perspective.
6. (a) How is Gardner’s theory of intelligence distinct from Spearman’s theory? Illustrate.
(b) Citing examples from life situations, explain the phenomenon of perceptual organization.
(c) What is vicarious learning? Discuss its applications in the acquisition of emotional responses.
7. (a) Define ‘concept’. Illustrate different types of concepts and processes involved in the formulation of the same.
(b) How can language be analyzed for its similarities across cultures? Explain with scientific evidence.
(c) Two-way ANOVA is not merely an addition of two one-way ANOVAs. Describe and evaluate with examples.
8. (a) Citing research evidence, bring out the role of cultural factors in socialization.
(b) Is amnesia merely a phenomenon of retrieval failure? Discuss in the light of empirical evidence.
(c) Critically evaluate the uses of paper-pencil tests in personality assessment.
Psychology Optional Question Paper-2 (2019)
SECTION – A
1. Write short answers to the following in about 150 words each
(a) Even though validity often requires reliability, the reverse is not true. Explain.
(b) “If you accept that studying does not come naturally, then it is apparent that one should need to set-up an organized schedule to promote adequate study.” Comment on this statement and highlight the important steps.
(c) Describe factors that may positively or negatively affect academic performance.
(d) Discuss why and how news coverage in the media affects us.
(e) What is successful aging? What are the components of successful aging?
2. (a) Explain why group membership can have a powerful influence on social behaviors and decisions.
(b) Given the rapid changes that are taking place in the Media, specially the internet and smartphones, discuss the psychological impact of these on adolescents.
(c) Why no single form of therapy works best for every problem? How an eclectic approach is an answer to it?
3. (a) What is the difference between prejudice and discrimination? Discuss the newer forms of prejudice that we see today.
(b) How would cognitive therapy explain the cause for clinical depression of a client and what would be the therapeutic approach followed for the treatment?
(c) In the light of research, discuss the ways in which social conflicts can be resolved.
4. (a) How can one make a decision of using exploratory factor analysis or confirmatory factor analysis or an integrated approach while constructing a psychological test?
(b) Why is Narcissistic personality disorder considered as a personality disorder? What are the obstacles faced by the clinicians to treat these types of clients?
(c) How can substance abuse be explained through different psychological approaches? How can the rehabilitation process help the people indulging in substance abuse?
SECTION – B
5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:
(a) “Psychological tests are important in personnel selection.” Give reasons for it and describe which psychological tests are generally used.
(b) How can one differentiate between learning and training? Discuss any two executive training methods, giving suitable examples.
(c) Discuss the relationship of achievement motivation to entrepreneurial behavior, citing relevant research.
(d) How can the community play an important role in providing safety to women? Discuss.
(e) How can the group cohesion method be a strong psychological intervention in enhancing team performance?
6. (a) Discuss socio-emotional factors affecting achievement motivation among students from disadvantaged groups.
(b) Why is psychological wellbeing considered an essential factor of health? What are the different ways it can be enhanced?
(c) Critically examine Herzberg’s two-factor theory of motivation and point out how it is different from Maslowian theory.
7. (a) Point out the general psychological consequences of social and economic disadvantaged groups.
(b) Explain the influence of media towards antisocial behavior through different learning theories.
(c) There is a strong need for a wellbeing curriculum for children in schools. You are asked to develop such a curriculum. What would be the focus and essential components of such a curriculum?
8. (a) “Why is social change necessary? Discuss effective strategies to bring about social change for community development.”
(b) “Population explosion and high population density have negative psychological consequences.” Explain this statement, especially stressing the negative psychological consequences.
(c) “Rapid scientific and technological growth is responsible for the degradation of the environment, although scientific and technological developments are necessary for national development.” Discuss the above assertion and point out the mechanisms for controlling environmental degradation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the significance of Psychology as an optional subject in UPSC Mains?
A1: Psychology is a popular optional subject in UPSC Mains because it offers a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, cognition, and the application of psychological principles in various real-world contexts. It enables candidates to approach social and administrative issues with a deeper insight into human psychology.
Q2: How many previous year papers of Psychology optional should I study for UPSC Mains?
A2: It’s advisable to study at least the last five years’ UPSC Mains Psychology optional papers. This will give you a good understanding of the question pattern, evolving trends, and the kind of questions that are frequently asked.
Q3: Are there any specific areas within Psychology that UPSC tends to focus on in the optional paper?
A3: While UPSC can ask questions from a broad range of psychology topics, some areas like developmental psychology, social psychology, and applied psychology are often emphasized. It’s important to have a strong foundation in these areas.
Q4: How can I effectively prepare for the Psychology optional paper in UPSC Mains?
A4: To prepare effectively, you should start by thoroughly understanding the syllabus, reading standard textbooks, and practicing answer writing. Additionally, consider enrolling in a reputable coaching program that specializes in Psychology as an optional subject.
Q5: Can I choose Psychology as an optional subject if I have no prior background in the field?
A5: Yes, you can choose Psychology as an optional subject even if you don’t have a background in the field. Many successful candidates have opted for this subject without prior knowledge. However, a strong dedication to studying and understanding the subject matter is essential for success in the UPSC Mains exam.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
