Question 1: Define the idiographic approach in psychology. Provide an example of a research method that might be used in this approach.

Answer: The idiographic approach focuses on understanding the individual’s unique experiences and perspectives. An example of a research method is case studies, which explore detailed information about a single person.

Question 2: Define the nomothetic approach in psychology. Give an example of a research method associated with this approach.

Answer: The nomothetic approach aims to establish general laws or principles that apply across many individuals. An example of a research method is experiments that produce statistical data applicable to groups.

Question 3: Compare and contrast the key features of the idiographic and nomothetic approaches. Use at least two points in your answer.

Answer: The idiographic approach focuses on individual differences and uses detailed case studies, while the nomothetic approach seeks to identify general laws through statistical analysis of large groups. The idiographic approach is more qualitative, whereas the nomothetic approach is more quantitative.

Question 4: Identify one strength and one limitation of the idiographic approach.

Answer: Strength: Provides in-depth insights into individual experiences. Limitation: Findings are not easily generalizable to others.

Question 5: Identify one strength and one limitation of the nomothetic approach.

Answer: Strength: Allows for generalization of findings to larger populations. Limitation: May overlook individual differences and unique experiences.

Question 6: Imagine a psychologist is studying how students cope with stress. Would they be more likely to use an idiographic or nomothetic approach? Explain your choice.

Answer: They might use a nomothetic approach if they want to identify common patterns among many students, but they could also use an idiographic approach if they want detailed insights into individual experiences.

Question 7: Describe a scenario where an idiographic approach would be most appropriate.

Answer: Studying the psychological development of a single patient with a rare mental health disorder to understand their unique experiences.

Question 8: Describe a scenario where a nomothetic approach would be most appropriate.

Answer: Researching the average level of anxiety in a large sample of students to identify general trends.

Question 9: Draw a simple diagram or sketch illustrating the difference between the idiographic and nomothetic approaches. Label your diagram clearly.

Answer: A correct sketch would show two side-by-side representations: one with a single detailed circle labeled 'Individual Case Study' (idiographic), and the other with multiple smaller circles grouped together labeled 'Group Data/Statistics' (nomothetic).

Question 10: Explain why a psychologist might choose to combine both idiographic and nomothetic methods in their research.

Answer: Combining both methods allows the psychologist to gain detailed insights into individuals while also understanding general patterns across groups, providing a more comprehensive view.