RESEARCH STUDY 12

question 1

Essay

RESEARCH STUDY 12.3: To study the effects of physical discomfort on attention, Dr.Lopez conducted the following study: A group of participants were required to keep one hand submerged in cold water (52 degrees).Half of the participants kept their hand in the water for 2 minutes, and half of the participants kept their hand in the water for 4 minutes.In addition, half of the participants were given a placebo pill and told it would reduce the pain of the water (pain relief assumed).The other half were given a placebo pill and told that it would have no effect (no pain relief assumed).While their hands were in the water, participants were asked to watch a video where a ball is quickly passed between and underneath three cups.At the end of the video, participants were asked to indicate under which cup the ball could be found.Whether or not the participant picked the correct cup was recorded (as a measure of whether they were paying attention).The results are below. Using Dr.Lopez's study as an example, explain why an interaction is often described by saying "it depends."

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Definitions:

Cognitive Therapy

Based on the assumption that an individual’s perception of events, rather than the events themselves, affects adjustment. This form of treatment focuses on identifying automatic thoughts and changing maladaptive patterns of thinking that are associated with distress (also see cognitive-behavioural).

Psychopathology

The study of mental disorders, including their symptoms, etiology (causes), and treatment.

Adjustment

The process of adapting or becoming accommodated to a new situation or environment.

Irrational Emotions

Feelings that do not have a logical or reasonable basis, often disproportionate to the situation at hand.