This practice test covers key concepts from Unit 6 of the AP Psychology curriculum, focusing on social psychology. Remember to review your notes and textbook before taking this practice test. Good luck!
Section 1: Multiple Choice
Instructions: Choose the best answer for each multiple-choice question.
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The tendency for people to underestimate the impact of situational factors and overestimate the impact of personal factors when explaining other people's behavior is known as: a) The fundamental attribution error b) The actor-observer bias c) Self-serving bias d) Confirmation bias
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Which of the following is NOT a factor contributing to groupthink? a) High group cohesiveness b) Directive leadership c) Critical evaluation of alternatives d) Illusion of invulnerability
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The bystander effect is most likely to occur when: a) A person is alone. b) The victim is clearly in need of help. c) There are many witnesses to the event. d) The situation is ambiguous.
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Cognitive dissonance theory suggests that we reduce discomfort by: a) Ignoring conflicting information. b) Changing our attitudes to match our behaviors. c) Seeking out information that confirms our biases. d) Both b and c.
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The process by which individuals adjust their behavior, attitudes, and beliefs to conform to a group is known as: a) Obedience b) Compliance c) Conformity d) Persuasion
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Milgram's obedience experiments demonstrated the powerful influence of: a) Conformity b) Authority figures c) Groupthink d) Cognitive dissonance
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Which of the following is an example of prejudice? a) Believing that all members of a certain group are lazy. b) Acting unfriendly towards someone from a different race. c) Treating someone unfairly based on their gender. d) All of the above.
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The process of assigning positive attributes to one's own group and negative attributes to out-groups is known as: a) Out-group homogeneity b) In-group bias c) Stereotyping d) Discrimination
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The realistic conflict theory suggests that prejudice arises from: a) Competition for limited resources b) Learned behaviors c) Cognitive biases d) Social categorization
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Which of the following is a technique used to increase compliance? a) Foot-in-the-door b) Door-in-the-face c) Lowballing d) All of the above
Section 2: Free Response
Instructions: Answer the following free-response questions in complete sentences.
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Explain the difference between prejudice, stereotypes, and discrimination, providing examples of each.
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Describe the factors that contribute to the bystander effect and how this effect can be mitigated.
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Discuss the results and implications of Milgram's obedience experiments. What ethical considerations were raised by the study?
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Explain how cognitive dissonance theory relates to attitude change. Provide a real-world example.
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Compare and contrast conformity and obedience, using examples to illustrate your points.
Answer Key (Multiple Choice)
- a) The fundamental attribution error
- c) Critical evaluation of alternatives
- c) There are many witnesses to the event
- d) Both b and c
- c) Conformity
- b) Authority figures
- d) All of the above
- b) In-group bias
- a) Competition for limited resources
- d) All of the above
This practice test is designed to help you prepare for the AP Psychology exam. Remember to consult your textbook and class notes for a comprehensive review. Good luck with your studies!