Previous years question papers : 2010-2023

PSYCHOLOGY OPTTIONAL(paper: II)

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 1. Psychological Measurement of Individual Differences: The nature of
individual differences. Characteristics and construction of
standardized psychological tests. Types of psychological tests. Use,
misuse and limitation of psychological tests. Ethical issues in the use
of psychological tests.
❖ 2010 –
 Discuss the application of psychological test in the selection of creative students .
Elucidate their limitation ? (20)
❖ 2012 –
 Explain the characteristics of standardised psychological tests. Discuss the major steps
in developing self-report personality inventory. Illustrate your answer with a suitable
example ? (30)
❖ 2013 –
 Identify the ethical and non-ethical uses of psychological tests especially measuring
individual differences. Provide suitable examples ? (15)
 How will you ensure that a newly constructed personnel selection test measures that it
purports to measure and predicts what it intends to predict ? Explain.
❖ 2014 –
 What factors can impede fair assessment of Individual difference ? Examine in the
light of research evidence ? (10)
 What different types of norms will a psychologist need to develop a test of general
mental ability for use in India ? (15)
 What is the purpose of item analysis ? How would you carry it out for a test of
aptitude ? (20)
❖ 2015 –
 What are some important ethical principles that psychologists must adhere to while
making use of psychological tests ? (15)
 How will you go about constructing a test for assessing aptitude for Civil Services?
Discuss the details ? (20)
❖ 2016 –
 In What ways psychological tests are useful in assessing individual differences ?
Answer with example (10)
❖ 2017 –
 Explain how the concept of Individual differences emerged and state its importance
for vocational guidance ? (10)
❖ 2018 –
 Bring out the similarities and differences between intelligence, aptitude, and
achievement tests ? (10)
 Discuss the different steps in the construction and standardisation of psychological
tests. Illustrate your answer with suitable example ? (20)
❖ 2019 –
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  "Psychological tests are important in personnel selection." Give reason to it and
describe which psychological tests are generally used ? (10)
 - How can one make a decision of using exploratory factor analysis or confirmatory
factor analysis or an integrated approach while constructing a psychological test ? (15)
❖ 2020 –
 What are the challenges in the development and uses of psychological tests ?
Illustrate with examples. (15)
 - Enumerate the major purposes of psychological testing in educational settings and
discuss ways in which psychological testing helps both the teacher and student ? (20)
 - In what ways psychological tests are better tools in assessing individual differences?
Explain. (10)
❖ 2021
 - Discuss the psychological test used for the selection of defence personnel ? (10)
 - What are the different types of psychological tests for personality assessment ? (15)
❖ 2022 –
 Discuss uses, misuses and limitations of psychological tests in clinical settings ? (20)
❖ 2023-
 Explain the characteristics of standardized psychological tests, Highlight the
Limitations of psychological tests. 20

2. Psychological well-being and Mental Disorders: Concept of health-ill health

positive health, well being casual factores in Mental disorders (Anxiety
disorders, mood disorders; schizophrenia and delusional disorders; personality
disorders, substance abuse disorders). Factors influencing positive health, well
being; lifestyle and quality of life; Happiness disposition.

❖ 2011 –
 Explain delusional disorders and highlight their distinguishing features ? (20)
 Discuss the various aspects subjective well being as propounded by positive
psychology movement ? (30)
 Explain Paranoid and Schizoid Personality disorders ? (30)
❖ 2012 –
 What do you understand by 'personality disorders? Distinguish between schizoid
personality disorder and schizophrenia ? (12)
 Define learned helplessness' How can used this concept be used to explain depressive
disorders ? (20)
❖ 2013 –
 Reflect on the major issues and contradictions related to the understanding of well-
being. Discuss with reference to current social trends ? (10)
❖ 2014 –
 Discuss how happiness may influence psychological well-being and health ? (15)
 How will you distinguish between anxiety and mood disorders ? (10)
 What is meant by Unconditional positive regards ? (10)
❖ 2015 –
 Substance abuse is a growing phenomenon among Indian youths. Discuss the
psychological causes of and intervention measures for substance abuse ? (10)
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  Critically evaluate the relationship between economic growth and human we I-being
in the light of contemporary research on happiness ? (15)
❖ 2016 –
 How do lifestyle variables influence quality of life of an individual in different life
domains ? (15 marks)
 What biological factors explain mental disorders ? Discuss. (10 marks)
❖ 2017 –
 Explain psychopathic personality and state how it is related to deviant behaviour ? (10
marks)
 Explain how hallucinations and delusional contents differ in paranoid and non-
paranoid schizophrenia ? (15 marks)
❖ 2018 –
 Why is psychological well being considered as an essential factor of health? What are
the different ways it can be enhanced ? (15 marks)
 Explain the etiology of manic-depressive disorder. Evaluate the suitability of
therapeutic methods for the treatment of manicdepressive disorder ? (15 marks)
❖ 2019 –
 What is successful aging ? What are the components of successful aging? (10 marks)
 Why is Narcissistic personality disorder considered as a personality disorder? What
are the obstacles faced by the clinicians to treat these types of clients ? (15 marks)
❖ 2020 –
 Describe the symptoms of depression and mood disorder. Give an account of
etiological factors and suggest the appropriate therapeutic treatment for these disorders
? (20 marks)
 How are schizophrenic disorders different from anxiety disorders? Explain with
examples ? (15 marks)
❖ 2021 –
 Describe the different types of anxiety disorders. What are the behavioural approaches
to treat such patients ? (20 marks)
 - What do you understand by mood disorders ? Discuss the causes. (10 marks)
❖ 2022 –
 What are different criteria for labelling abnormal behaviour ? (10)
 - Discuss the challenges to mental health of Indian youth. As a psychologist, suggest
ways to foster their mental health ? (15)
 - Describe the instrumental role of biology, conditioning, cognition and stress in
developing anxiety disorder ? (20)
❖ 2023 –
 Give a comparative analysis of positive And negative symptoms of schizophrenia. 10
 Discuss the biopsychosocial model of health. Suggest relevant actions to prevent
ilness.15

3. Therapeutic Approaches: Psychodynamic therapies. Behaviour

therapies. Client centered therapy. Cognitive therapies. Indigenous
therapies (Yoga, Meditation). Biofeedback therapy. Prevention and
rehabilitation of the mentally ill; Fostering mental health.
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❖ 2010 –
 Enumerate the different types of phobias encountered in clinical practice. Explain the
application of behaviour therapy in handling these phobic disorders ? (30)
 'In diagnosis. treatment and prognosis, it is more important to know which person has
the disease rather than the disease he has'. Express your agreement or otherwise with
the statement with justifications and discuss its implications for Psychotherapy ? (60)
 In which way , the eastern traditional wisdom has contributed to dealing with
psychological illnesses ? (20)
❖ 2011 –
 Discuss the efficacy of Biofeedback therapy in the Management of Mental health ?
(20)
 Explain person- centred therapy and state its limitation with suitable examples ? (30)
 Critically evaluate the effectiveness of Beck's cognitive behaviour therapy in treatment
of different types of depressions ? (30)
❖ 2012 –
 Critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of psychodynamic therapies in the
treatment of mental disorders ? (12)
 Explain the assumptions underlying cognitive therapy. Critically comment on its
utility in the treatment of mental disorders ? (20)
❖ 2013 –
 What are the necessary conditions required in client-centred therapy? Discuss the
therapeutic process involved in it ? (15)
 Reflect on the possibility of fostering positive mental health through indigenous
therapies along with cultural practices ? (20)
❖ 2014 –
 What therapy will be most efficacious in case of someone who is suffering from
depression? Give reasons in support of your answer ? (15)
 Discuss the theoretical bases of behaviouristic approaches of psychotherapy ? (15)
❖ 2015 –
 How can 'Ashtanga Yoga' help in fostering holistic health? Support your answer with
research evidence ? (10)
 Elucidate the learning principles underlying behaviour therapies. Examine the relative
efficacy of cognitive therapy and behaviour therapy in helping students overcome
social anxiety ? (15)
❖ 2016 –
 Discuss the efficacy of behaviour therapies in the prevention of mental illnesses. (10
marks)
 Discuss the salient features of psychodynamic therapies and evaluate their role in the
prevention of mental illnesses. (20 marks)
❖ 2017 –
 Explain the behavioural cognitive therapy by Ellis with the steps involved in it ? (15
marks)
 Explain reciprocal inhibition in behaviour therapy and point out its theoretical basis ?
(20 marks)
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  Explain the concept of incongruence in person - centred therapy ? (10 Marks )
❖ 2018 –
 Discuss the distinctive aspects of modern psychodynamic therapy. How can it be
helpful in the treatment of diverse array of disorders? (15 marks)
 Discuss the efficacy of systematic desensitisation in reducing clients' phobic reactions.
Illustrate your answer with suitable example. (15 marks)
❖ 2019 –
 How would cognitive therapy explain the cause for clinical depression of a client and
what would be the therapeutic approach followed for the treatment? (15 marks)
 Why no single form of therapy works best for every problem ? How an eclectic
approach is an answer to it ? (20 marks )
❖ 2020 –
 Illustrate the basic tenets of psychodynamic and client centered therapies. Discuss the
effectiveness of these therapies as forms of treatment of mental disorders. (20 marks)
 How are indigenous therapies an alternative to classical insight therapies ? Discuss.
(10 marks)
❖ 2021 –
 Describe the main tenets of cognitive therapy. Compare it with psychoanalytic
therapy ? (15 marks)
 Discuss the methods used by a psychoanalyst to bring unconscious motives into
conscious ? (15 marks)
❖ 2022 –
 Discuss the (challenges) to mental health of Indian youth. As a psychologist, suggest
ways to foster their mental health ? (20)
 Discuss the various strategies necessary for rehabilitation of mentally ill Indian Youth
? (15)
 Discuss important concepts of Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy along with its
applications ? (15)
❖ 2023-
 Compare directional and non-directional therapies with reference to their
effectiveness. 10
 Explain the nature and significance of biofeedback therapy.10
 Explain the assumptions of behaviour therapy, Discuss various techniques of
behaviour therapy to treat phobia. 15

4. Work Psychology and Organisational Behaviour: Personnel selection

and training. Use of Psychological tests in the industry. Training and
human resource development. Theories of work motivation. Herzberg,
Maslow, Adam Equity theory, Porter and Lawler, Vroom; Leadership
and participatory management; Advertising and marketing; Stress
and its management; Ergonomics; consumer psychology; Managerial
effectiveness; Transformational leadersip; Senitivity training; Power
and politics in organizations.

❖ 2010 –

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  Evaluate the application of equity theory and Porter - Lawler’s theory in modern
organisation ? (20)
❖ 2011 –
 Provide comparison between transformational and transactional leadership for their
relevance to Indian organisations ? (30)
 Differentiate between-managerial effectiveness. And efficiency, and discuss the
factors influencing them ? (30)
 Compare procedural and distributive justice and present their effect on employees
motivation ? (30)
❖ 2012 –
 Explain the models of sensitivity training. Relate them to organisational development
? (20)
 Explain Vroom's expectancy theory of work motivation and link this theory with
variable-pay programs ? (20)
 What are the psychosocial components of advertising and marketing? Identify and
discuss the relevant ethical considerations ? (30)
❖ 2013 –
 What is your understanding of organisational politics? Discuss how it impacts
decision-making processes in bureaucratic organisations ? (15)
 Discuss the key determinants of consumer behaviour in India .How do Cultural values
influence it ? (15)
 What bases of power are used by successful leaders to exercise influence with in the
organisation ? Discuss (15)
❖ 2014 –
 Can leaders be trained ? What will be the essential components of a leadership
training programme for the civil servants ? (20)
 To what extent, do you think that the principles of management derived from the study
of industrial organisations can be applied to improve the functioning of bureaucratic
organisations in India ? (10)
❖ 2015 –
 To what extent would you agree that human resource development is more about
inculcation of human values and less about development of competencies ? (10)
 Do you think that efficacy of Personnel selection can be improved by using multiple
methods ? (15)
❖ 2016 –
 How can psychological well-being of service professionals be promoted ? Discuss. (10
marks)
 Is Herzberg's theory relevant for understanding work motivation in Indian
organisations ? (10 marks)
 How is competency mapping made use of for human resource development in modern
organisations ? (15 marks)
 Critically evaluate whether the principles of participatory management are equally
effective in bureaucratic organisations as in industrial organisations. (15 marks)
 How can psychological theories be put to use to inoculate people against their
impulsive buying behaviour? (15 marks)
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❖ 2017 –
 Critically evaluate the role of self-report personality inventories in personnel selection.
(10 marks)
 Discuss the challenges and opportunities offered by multiculturalism and diversity in
today's organizations. (10 marks)
 Distinguish between content and process theories of work motivation. Comment on
the applicability of Maslow's theory of work motivation in the Indian context ? (15
marks)
❖ 2018 –
 How does stress contribute to the causation of physical illness? Discuss the role of
optimism as factor moderating the impact of stress. (10 marks)
 Explain the nature of sensitivity training. Comment on its utility as an organisational
development technique. (15 marks)
 Explain Herzberg's theory of work-motivation. Critically comment on its relevance in
Indian context. (20 marks)
❖ 2019 –
 How can one differentiate between learning and training? Discuss any two executive
training methods giving suitable examples. (10 marks)
 Critically examine Herzberg's two-factor theory of motivation and point out that in
what way Herzberg's theory is different from Maslow's theory ? (20 marks)
❖ 2020 –
 Explain the nature of diversity in today's organizations in India. What steps should
organizations take to manage diversity? (15 marks)
 What are the potential sources of stress for people working in research and
development organisations? Discuss some of the individual and organizational
approaches to manage stress. (20 marks)
 Discuss the factors that contribute to political behaviour in organizations. (10 marks)
 In case of highly skilled professionals does their motivation come from within or is it
the result of situational factors? Explain this in the light of theories of motivation. (15
marks)
❖ 2021 –
 What are the steps to be taken to promote gender-friendly environment at workplace ?
(10 marks)
 How does power in organisations tend to concentrate in the hands of a few persons ?
Discuss the tactics used to gain power. (15 marks)
 Explain the factors affecting the work motivation with in work organisation in India ?
(10 marks)
 What do you understand by psychology of advertising ? How can consumer awareness
be enhanced through advertising ? (20 marks )
❖ 2022 –
 Explain how power and politics go hand in hand ? (10)
 Why is selection considered to be a process of infusion of fresh blood in the
organisation ? Discuss the steps involved in employee selection ? (15)
 How does advertising help people to buy intelligently and enable them to take a step in
the direction of a higher standard of living ? Critically examine (15)
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❖ 2023 –

 What is achievement motivation? Discuss how family and cultural factors contribute
to enhance achievement motivation. 20
 Explain Maslow’s need hierarchy theory. Critically evaluate the same.15
 Describe the applications of psychological principles in the field of marketing. Cite
illustrations from Indian context. 20

5. Application of Psychology to Educational Field: Psychological

principles underlying effective teaching-learning process. Learning
styles. Gifted, retarded, learning disabled and their training.
Training for improving memory and better academic achievement.
Personality development and value education. Educational,
vocational guidance and Career counselling. Use of Psychological
tests in educational institutions; Effective strategies in guidance
programmes.

❖ 2010 –
 Explain the role of case study in understanding the learning disabilities in school
children. Prepare a proforma for the case study of a dyslexic child ? (30)
 Discuss the challenges encountered by the guidance and counselling movement in
India ? (30)
❖ 2011 –
 Discuss the process of selection of 'gifted children' on the basis of psychological tests.
Make recommendations for their proper schooling ? (20)
 Bring out the need of Value education in personality development of students during
schooling ? (20)
 What are the techniques and devices used in improving memory to ensure better
academic achievements? Discuss. (30)
❖ 2012 –
 Comment on the present practices related to educational guidance and counselling
programs in Indian schools and colleges.
 Highlight the problems in implementing and strengthening these programs in Indian
context ? (12)
 Discuss different learning disabilities and their educational and psychological
consequences. Suggest relevant remedial measures in this context ? (30)
❖ 2013 –
 How would you identify Gifted Children ? Explain with examples (10)
 Reflecting on the status of education in India, state whether it can help in reducing the
gap which has been experienced due to social inequality ? (20)
❖ 2014 –
 Enumerate the factors that can impact upon the teaching - Learning process in rural
India ? (10)
 How can teachers help in meeting the educational needs of a child suffering from
ADHD ? (15)

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❖ 2015 –
 How can psychological knowledge be put to use in changing the behaviour of children
inclined to consume ‘Junk food’ ? (10)
 Why do teaching-learning processes in Indian classrooms tend to be teacher-centred?
If knowledge is viewed as a constructive process, what kind of classroom would be
suitable for rural Indian schools ? (20)
 Discuss some strategies for dealing with academic underachievement in Indian School
? (10)
❖ 2016 –
 Examine some important psychological principles underlying effective teaching
learning process. (10 marks)
 Illustrate the significance of value education in schools and comment on its relevance
for personality development of children. (10 marks)
❖ 2017 –
 Explain how the concept of individual differences emerged and state its importance
for vocational guidance. (10 marks)
 Elaborate the process of spotting and nurturing gifted children in the Indian context ?
(15 marks)
❖ 2018 –
 Can effective teaching-learning be viewed as a process of collaborative construction of
knowledge? What are the implications of such a view on classroom structure and
management in Indian conditions? (20 marks)
 How is giftedness identified and what are the issues in such identification in Indian
Context ? How is giftedness related to IQ and Creativity ? (15 marks )
❖ 2019 –
 "If you accept that studying does not come naturally, then it is apparent that one
should need to set-up an organised schedule to promote adequate study. Comment on
this statement and highlight the important steps. (10 marks)
 Describe factors that may positively or negatively affect academic performance. (10
marks)
 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 ? (20 marks)
❖ 2020 –
 Enumerate the major purposes of psychological testing in educational settings and
discuss ways in which psychological testing helps both the teacher and student ? (20
marks)
 Describe and evaluate the techniques used in the training for memory development ?
(15 marks)
❖ 2021 –
 Explain the major steps to be taken for the training of children with learning
disabilities ? (15 marks)
 Highlight the importance of career counselling in enhancing students' success in life ?
(15 marks)

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  What is the need of early identification of mentally challenged children? Write about
the strategies for early intervention. (20 marks)

❖ 2022 –
 In the light of research, discuss various ways to enhance cognitive skills of the gifted
children ? (10)
 With reference to the general scenario of our country, elaborate the significance of 'out
of school' vocational guidance. Which special strategies should be used for it ? (15)
❖ 2023 –
 Explain’ the nature of dyslexia. How can it be diagnosed?10

6. Community Psychology: Definition and concept of Community

Psychology. Use of small groups in social action. Arousing Community
consciousness and action for handling social problems. Group decision
making and leadership for social change. Effective strategies for
social change.

❖ 2010 –
 Discuss critically the relevance of community psychology in India for the eradication
of superstitions ? (30)
❖ 2012 –
 Discuss the merits of the role of small groups in social actions and community
handling of social problems ? (12)
❖ 2013 –
 Discuss the steps that can be taken to improve the quality of group decision-making ?
(10)
 Identify the factors in arousal of community consciousness and also the strategies for
handling social problems keeping in view some of the recent protest movements in
India ? (20)
❖ 2014 –
 Discuss the implications of employing group decision-making in issues involving
development in the Indian cultural context ? (15)
❖ 2015 –
 What is the phenomenon of ‘ Group Think ‘ ? How can it influence the quality of
group decision making ? (10)
 It has been found that cultural factors can be used to facilitate social change. What
cultural factors can be made use of, and how, in making a success of the governmental
programme called 'Swacch Bharat Abhiyan ? (20 marks)
❖ 2016 –
 Discuss how the process of group decision making can be used effectively in bringing
about social change ? (20 marks)
 Discuss the usefulness of small groups in community interventions for social
development ? (10 marks)
❖ 2017 –

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  Which psychological and cultural factors will facilitate the success of 'Beti Bachao
Beti Padhao' programme? How can this programme be promoted through information
technology and mass media? (15 marks)
 What is the role of the community in handling social problems? Prepare a plan for
involving the community to handle crime against women. (20 marks)
 In the light of various theories of leadership, what kind of leaders will be effective in
bringing about social change? (15 marks)
 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of group decision making over decisions
made by individuals ? (10 marks)
❖ 2018 –
 In what specific ways can psychologists work for empowering the communities that
have been marginalised by the society. (10 marks)
 In the context of positive social change differentiate between first-order and second-
order change. Why is the second-order change often the focus of community
psychology? (10 marks)
❖ 2019 –
 Why is social change necessary? Discuss the effective strategies to bring about social
change for community development. (15 marks)
 Explain why group membership can have a powerful influence on social behaviours
and decisions. (15 marks)
❖ 2020 –
 Identify and discuss the key elements contributing to effective social change in a
marginalised community. (15 marks)
❖ 2021 –
 Discuss the role of community psychology for handling community mental health
problems. (10 marks)
 Why is group decision making important for social change? What errors and biases
occur during the process of group decision making ? (20 marks)
❖ 2022 –
 What is community psychology ? Mention few skills and qualities a community
psychologist should have. (10)
 How can community psychologists bring positive social change in order to address
mental health and well-being in society? Explain with suitable examples. (20)
❖ 2023 –
 Discuss the importance and applications of ecological theory for programme
implementation of saving the girl child. 15
 “Appreciating diversity is considered as a core value for a community psychologist in
India.” Justify.10

7. Rehabilitation Psychology: Primary, secondary and tertiary

prevention programmes—role of psychologists. Organising of services
for rehabilitation of physically, mentally and socially challenged
persons including old persons. Rehabilitation of persons suffering
from substance abuse, juvenile delinquency, criminal behaviours.

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 Rehabilitation of victims of violence. Rehabilitation of HIV/AIDS
victims, the role of social agencies.

❖ 2012 –
 Discuss how the major role of major rehabilitation psychologists is primarily as a
'facilitator of adjustive behaviour' rather than as a 'symptom eradicator' ? (12)
 Identify the physical and psychosocial consequences of being a victim of violence.
Explain the nature of counselling and rehabilitation services a psychologist can render
to the victims of violence ? (20)
 What are the causes of domestic violence? How is belief in a just world' used to
rationalise this violence ? (12)
❖ 2013 –
 Discuss the relative efficacy of psycho-social and community-based rehabilitation
models in case of the physically challenged ? (15)
❖ 2014 –
 Which rehabilitative strategies can be employed by the organisations to handle the
workplace violence ? (10)
 State the challenges the psychologist are likely to face in the rehabilitation of criminals
? (15)
❖ 2015 –
 What specific role can psychologists play in the management and rehabilitation of
persons suffering from HIV /AIDS ? (15)
 What role can psychologists play in primary, secondary and tertiary prevention
programmes in relation to terminal illness such as coronary heart disease and cancer ?
(10)
❖ 2016 –
 Discuss the role of psychologists in organising tertiary level rehabilitation
programmes ? (10 marks)
 Evaluate the role of social agencies in rehabilitation of mentally and socially
challenged persons ? (15 marks)
 Examine the role of situational factors in criminal behaviour ? (15 marks)
❖ 2017 –
 A large number of people all over the world are forced to leave their homeland
because of violence. What are the psychological problems faced by such victims of
violence? Discuss a plan for their rehabilitation. (10 marks)
 Discuss the importance and requirements of orthogenic schools in the context of pre-
delinquent adolescents. (15 marks)
❖ 2018 –
 Discuss the role of social and environmental intervention in rehabilitation of the
mentally challenged. Why are such interventions crucial in Indian settings ? (15
marks)
 What role do cultural factors play in rehabilitation of senior citizens with possible
memory and cognitive decline? Comment on the significance of family and social
support in such rehabilitation in India ? (10 marks)
❖ 2019 –
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  How can substance abuse be explained through different psychological approaches ?
(15 marks)
 How can rehabilitation process help the people indulging in substance abuse ? (20
marks)
❖ 2020 –
 Who are juvenile delinquents? Discuss the steps involved in the rehabilitation and
prevention of juvenile delinquency. (15 marks)
 Bring out the role of social agencies in the rehabilitation of persons suffering from
substance abuse ? (10 marks )
❖ 2021 –
 What roles do the social agencies play in the rehabilitation of HIV/AIDS patients? (10
marks)
❖ 2022 –
 Discuss the major limitations of the aged having cognitive problems. Mention
strategies used to improve their psycho-social health. (15)
 Discuss the various strategies necessary for rehabilitation of mentally ill Indian youth
? (15)
❖ 2023 –
 Explain the strategies for rehabilitation of intellectually challenged person.15
 Discuss the role of a psychologist in rehabilitation of victims of domestic violence
with special reference to India.20
 Explain Bandura’s theory for understanding criminal behaviour.15

8. Application of Psychology to disadvantaged groups: The concepts of

disadvantaged, deprivation social, physical, cultural and economic
consequences of disadvantaged and deprived groups. Educating and
motivating the disadvantaged towards development; Relative and
prolonged deprivation.

❖ 2010 –
 Analyse the motivational disadvantaged and the deficits in the deprived groups.
Suggest remedial measures for' overcoming these deficits ? (20)
❖ 2011 –
 Can deprivation be a source of motivation ? Discuss the psychological measures
relevant to deal with the negative consequences of prolonged deprivation. (30)
❖ 2012 –
 Explain the psychosocial consequences of being a part of socially disadvantaged
groups especially with reference to selfconcept, identity, motivation and achievement.
Give examples from Indian context ? (20)
❖ 2013 –
 "Poverty alleviation is a dream spread with ulterior motives." Do you agree ? Justify
your views ? (15)
❖ 2014 –
 What psychological conditions keep the poor in a socially disadvantaged state ? (15)
 How can the adverse consequences of social disadvantages be alleviated ? (15)
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❖ 2015 –
 Tribal children in India are disadvantaged partly because of the neglect of heir
language and culture in education. How can education for tribal children be reformed
to deal with such disadvantage ? (20)
 Socioeconomic and educational disadvantages have been viewed from 'deficit as well
as 'difference' perspectives. Citing examples of each approach, discuss the difference
between the two and their implications ? (10)
❖ 2017 –
 Explain the psychological, socio-cultural and economic consequences of belonging to
a disadvantaged group. Suggest the steps to educate and motivate disadvantaged
groups towards development. (20 marks)
 What is relative deprivation? Explain its consequences on adolescent behaviour in the
current Indian scenario. (15 marks)
❖ 2018 –
 Discuss some major factors of educational failure among tribal communities in India.
Why must education of the disadvantaged emphasise development of self- efficacy
and intrinsic motivation ? (20 marks)
 How is disadvantage related to a social structure of hierarchy and discrimination?
What is its relationship with capability deprivation and poverty? (15 marks)
❖ 2019 –
 Point out the general psychological consequences of social and economic
disadvantaged groups ? (15 marks)
 Discuss socio-emotional factors affecting achievement motivation among students
from disadvantaged groups ? (15 marks)
❖ 2020 –
 Women in a remote village have been deprived of development related benefits. What
steps would you suggest to enable women to take advantage of these benefits ? (10
marks)
 Think of a social group which has been subjected to prolonged deprivation. In what
ways prolonged deprivation has impacted the lives of people belonging to this group ?
Suggest ways to mitigate these effects. (20 marks)
❖ 2021 –
 Write about the strategies for motivating students belonging to disadvantaged groups
for their development ? (10 marks)
 What are the consequences of being a member of disadvantaged group ? (10 marks)
❖ 2022 –
 Critically examine the numerous innovations and programmes of the Government in
educating and motivating disadvantaged children towards their development. (15)
 Discuss how environment, culture and socio-economic relationships play an important
role to meet the needs of disadvantaged children. (15)
❖ 2023-
 Discuss the steps to be taken to reduce the incidence of school dropouts among
deprived groups.15
 Explain with suitable examples the psychosocial consequences of prolonged
deprivation. 10
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 9. Psychological problem of social integration: The concept of social
integration. The problem of caste, class, religion and language
conflicts and prejudice. Nature and manifestation of prejudice
between the ingroup and outgroup. Casual factors of such conflicts
and prejudices. Psychological strategies for handling the conflicts
and prejudices. Measures to achieve social integration.

❖ 2010 –
 What is ‘Intergroup-contact' hypothesis? Discuss its implications and limitations in
reducing prejudices ? (30)
 "Prejudice is a consequence of socialisation and learning”. Discuss this statement and
suggest measures to reduce prejudices in the Indian context ? (30)
❖ 2011 –
 Clarify the relationship between stereotypes and prejudices, and examine their impact
on social integration. (30)
❖ 2012 –
 Justify with examples how the insights derived from studies on 'intergroup contact
hypothesis' would be useful in promoting harmonious relations among different castes
and in maintaining social order ? (12)
 Distinguish between prejudice and discrimination. Explain the variables moderating
the manifestation of prejudice into overt behaviour ? (20)
❖ 2013 –
 Identify relevant indices for understanding the emergence of in-group and out-group
processes. Discuss with the help of a suitable theoretical framework ? (20)
 Is religion in India at the root of social conflicts? Discuss and provide suitable ways to
deal with such conflicts ? (15)
❖ 2014 –
 Explain how the creation of superordinate goals can help in resolving social conflicts ?
(10)
 What psychological knowledge will you put to use for social inclusion of the
stigmatised ? (15)
❖ 2015 –
 According to Social Identity Theory, social categorisation and differentiation
processes are implicated in intergroup conflict. Evaluate the theory against available
research evidence ? (20)
 Religious Violence in India has shown only a marginal decline over the years . What
social and Psychological factors explain it the most ? (15)
❖ 2016 –
 Discuss the process of prejudice formation. State the psychological strategies that can
be adopted for conflict resolution. (20 marks)
 What psychological factors will explain lack of social integration involving religious
groups in India? Discuss. (20 marks)
❖ 2017 –

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  Discuss how social integration can be promoted in India in the light of intergroup
contact hypothesis and crossed categorization research. (15 marks)
 What do you understand by intergroup attitudes? Why are such attitudes considered to
be a social phenomenon? (20 marks)
❖ 2018 –
 Critically describe the role of cultural assimilation in facilitating/hindering social
integration in India. Illustrate with suitable example ? (20 marks)
 Discuss the relevance of frustration-aggression hypothesis in the context of caste
prejudice in India ? (15 marks)
❖ 2019 –
 What is the difference between prejudice and discrimination? Discuss the newer forms
of prejudice that we see today. (20 marks)
 In the light of research, discuss the ways in which social conflicts can be resolved ?(20
marks)
❖ 2020 –
 What is meant by social integration ? How can religious harmony be promoted to
attain social integration in the present scenario in India? (10 marks)
 How does categorisation as in-group and out-group influence social relations? How
can such influence of categorisation be minimised. Discuss with examples. ? (15
marks)
❖ 2021 –
 Is prejudice inevitable? Discuss the techniques for reducing caste prejudice ? (20
marks)
 What are the forms of social conflicts? Explain the methods of resolution of social
conflicts ? (15 marks)
❖ 2022 –
 Explore causal factors of social conflicts and suggest methods of resolution ? (20)
 Explain the concept of social integration citing suitable example ? (10)
❖ 2023-
 Discuss the psychological strategies for handling the intergroup conflict. 15
 What are the measures to achieve social integration? 10

10. Application of Psychology in Information Technology and Mass

Media: The present scenario of information technology and the mass
media boom and the role of psychologists. Selection and training of
Psychology professionals to work in the field of IT and mass media.
Distance learning through IT and mass media. Entrepreneurship
through e-commerce. Multilevel marketing. Impact of TV and fostering
value through IT and mass media. Psychological consequences of
recent developments in Information Technology.

❖ 2010 –
 Discuss the psychological consequences of recent developments in Information
Technology with special reference to cognitive and social development ? (30)
 Critically examine distance education in the light of mass media and information
technology. Comment On the role of psychologists in this regard ? (30)
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❖ 2011 –
 Detail out the relationship between information technology, mass media and their
psychological consequences with suitable examples. (30)
❖ 2012 –
 Discuss critically the utility of IT and mass media in the context of distance learning.
Throw light on the strengths and limitations of distance learning ? (20)
❖ 2013 –
 Discuss the influences of information technology in modifying the career perspectives
of young adults with special reference to the values of life ? (15)
❖ 2014 –
 What are the psychological disadvantages of learning in the distant mode through IT
compared to classroom learning ? (20)
❖ 2015 –
 Psychologists have recently identified, a disorder which they term internet addiction'.
What are its presenting features? How can those suffering from this addiction be
helped ? (15)
 Discuss the psychological mechanism by which television viewing affects aggression
and consumer behaviour in children ? (10)
❖ 2016 –
 How can psychological theories be put to use to inoculate people against their
impulsive buying behaviour ? (15 marks)
❖ 2017 –
 Explain the role of mass media in value development. How can the mass media and
information technology be used for promoting pro-social values ? (15 marks)
 What are the psychological consequences of the. fast development in information
technology on adolescents ? (10 marks)
❖ 2018 –
 Explain using psychological framework, the impact of IT and mass media on the
work-life in India. (10 marks)
❖ 2019 –
 Given the rapid changes that are taking place in the Media, specially the internet and
smartphones, discuss the psychological impact of these on adolescents ? (15 marks)
❖ 2020 –
 How can psychology contribute in managing IT and mass media for 'Atma Nirbhar
Bharat' ? Discuss. (15 marks)
 ‘values cannot be fostered through TV and Mass Media’ , critically evaluate the
statements ? (10 marks )
❖ 2021 –
 Describe the impact of electronic media on the adolescents behaviour ? (20 marks )
❖ 2022 –
 Elaborate the effects of mass media on emotional health and values of youth in our
culture ? (15)
 Throw Light on negative impact of technological growth in our real life ? (10)
 Discuss the ill effects of internet addition among adolescents. Suggest intervention for
arresting the same ? (10)
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❖ 2023 –
 Discuss the psychological and social effects of pornography addiction. 15
 Explain the role of mass media in fostering societal values. 10

11. Psychology and Economic development: Achievement motivation

and economic development. Characteristics of entrepreneurial
behaviour. Motivating and Training people for entrepreneurship and
economic development; Consumer rights and consumer awareness,
Government policies for promotion of entrepreneurship among youth
including women entrepreneurs.

❖ 2010 –
 Comment on the Effectiveness of Training programs for developing entrepreneurship
and achievement motivation ? (20)
❖ 2011 –
 Critically evaluate Internal consistency and stability Coefficients as Indices of
reliability ? (20)
❖ 2012 –
 Can achievement motivation be included as a base of training for economic growth
and development of a country? Discuss the contribution of McClelland and his team in
this context ? (12)
❖ 2013 –
 Discuss how cognitive and motivational factors influence entrepreneurial behaviour ?
(10)
❖ 2014 –
 Explain psychological characteristics of a successful entrepreneur ? (20)
 What psychological motives have retarded economic development in India, according
to some psychologists? Discuss. (20)
 What psychological knowledge can be used to develop a programme for women
entrepreneurs ? (20)
❖ 2015 –
 What is the relationship that has been found between need for achievement, need for
affiliation and need for power with economic development? Discuss the relevance of
these findings in the context of Indian society ? (20)
❖ 2016 –
 Does need for affiliation come in the way of economic development of the tribal
people? Discuss. (15 marks)
 What role can psychologists play in the development and implementation of the 'Skill
India' scheme of the Government of India? (20 marks)
❖ 2017 –
 Explain the characteristics of entrepreneurial behaviour. Discuss critically as to how
entrepreneurial behaviour can be cultivated through training. Cite evidence in the
Indian context. (20 marks)
❖ 2018 –

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  What psychological factors act as barriers in the context of women's entrepreneurship?
How can they be overcome ? (10 marks)
 Explain the interrelationship among achievement motivation, entrepreneurial
behaviour and economic development. Discuss critically as to whether achievement
motivation can be enhanced through training. Cite relevant Indian studies ? (20 marks)
❖ 2019 –
 Discuss the relationship of achievement motivation to entrepreneurial behaviour,
citing relevant research. (10 marks)
❖ 2020 –
 Explain the psychological conceptualisation that helps in understanding the economic
development ? (10 marks)
 On the basis of psychology of motivation write a programme-sketch for
entrepreneurship development ? (15 marks)
❖ 2021 –
 Illustrate the characteristics of entrepreneurial behaviour. How can it be promoted
among the youth? (15 marks)
❖ 2022 –
 Discuss the characteristics of entrepreneurial behaviour ? (10)

12. Application of Psychology to environment and related fields:

Environmental Psychology effects of noise, pollution and crowding.
Population Psychology: Psychological consequence of population
explosion and high population density. Motivating for small family
norms. Impact of rapid scientific and technological growth on
degradation of environment.

❖ 2010 –
 State the salient features of the Man- Environment relationship. Discuss implications
for architects in designing builtenvironment ? (30)
❖ 2012 –
 Define the notion of environmental pollution. How would you explain the impact of
scientific and technological innovation on environmental degradation from a
psychological perspective ? (12)
 Explain the consequences of short-term and long-term exposure to noise. How does
noise affect our social behaviour ? Cite the impact of crowding in this context ? (30)
 Explain the psychosocial factors and myths that demotivate people from following
small family norms. Suggest relevant motivational strategies in this context ? (20)
❖ 2013 –
 India rates very high on carbon emission. What use can be made of psychological
knowledge to reduce the level of carbon emission in India ? (10)
 What psychological approach/ approaches can be used to persuade those who oppose
family planning on religious grounds ? (15)
 How can psychological principles be used to conserve water ? Develop a plan. (10)
❖ 2014 –
 As a psychologist, develop a programme to bring about attitudinal change in favour of
small family norm ? (10)
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  What social and psychological factors come in the way of population control in India ?
(10)
❖ 2015 –
 How is population growth in India affected by psychological processes of attribution,
beliefs and values? Discuss possible implications of these processes for population
education in India ? (15)
❖ 2016 –
 Analyse the impact of crowding on mental health. Discuss the psychological measures
that can be adopted to reduce the stress resulting from crowding. (20 marks)
 What role can media play in the promotion of small family norms in the Indian
culture? (10 marks)

❖ 2017 –
 Explain the effects of rapid scientific and technological growth on environmental
degradation. Discuss the role of psychologists in reducing environmental degradation
? (15 marks)
 Explain the effects of short-term and chronic exposure to noise on the performance on
cognitive tasks ? (10 marks)
❖ 2018 –
 Explain the psychosocial consequences of crowding and high population density.
Suggest appropriate policies to deal with the related problems in Indian context. (15
marks)
 With some examples show how can indigenous knowledge systems be used in
management of biodiversity and cultural diversity? (10 marks)
 Explain the psychosocial factors demotivating people from small family norms ? (10
marks)
❖ 2019 –
 "Rapid scientific and technological growth are responsible for degradation of
environment, although, scientific and technological developments are necessary for
National development." Discuss the above assertion and point out the mechanisms for
controlling the environmental degradation. (20 marks)
 "Population explosion and high population density have negative psychological
consequences." Explain this statement especially stressing light on negative
psychological consequences. (15 marks)
❖ 2020 –
 Environmental degradation is a major issue. Explain what has led to this and how it
has impacted the life of people and society in India. (15 marks)
 How has population growth impacted human and social lives? Discuss this in the light
of COVID-19 pandemic crisis. (10 marks)
❖ 2021 –
 Elaborate upon the strategies for inducing pro-environmental behaviour ? (10 marks)
 Highlight the psychological consequences of living in high population density area ?
(15 marks)
❖ 2022 –

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  Discuss pollution and crowding as agents of psycho-social and physical problems.
Cite few problems and recommend remedial strategies. (20)
❖ 2023 –
 What is pro-environmental behaviour? Design an intervention plan for developing
pro-environmental behaviour among school children.20
 Discuss the psychological consequences of population explosion. Suggest some
techniques to enhance awareness among people for population control . 15

13. Application of psychology in other fields:

a. Military Psychology: Devising psycological tests for defence
personnel for use in selection, Training, counseling; training
psychologists to work, with defence personnel in promoting positive
health; Human engineering in defence.
b. Sports Psychology: Psychological interventions in improving
performance of athletes and sports. Persons participating in
Individual and Team Games.
c. Media influences on pro and anti‐social behaviour.
d. Psychology of Terrorism.

A. MILITARY PSYCHOLOGY
❖ 2012 –
 What is man-machine system in the context of human engineering? Highlight the
applications of human engineering in defence with reference to equipment design ?
(20)
❖ 2013 –
 How can psychological resilience of the personnel of the armed forces be enhanced ?
Discuss. (10)
❖ 2015 –
 Indian defence personnel tend to experience depression, sometimes leading to
suicides. What type of psychological interventions can foster positive mental health in
them ? (15)
 Indian soldiers defend the country in extreme and, at times, hostile physical
environments. What kinds of psychological problems are they likely to experience ?
(15)

❖ 2016 –
 How can human engineering be put to use in devising instruments that are used by the
defence personnel posted in the border areas? Discuss. (15 marks)
❖ 2017 –
 What is man-machine system? In this context, explain the applications of human
engineering in designing the display systems of the aircrafts. (15 marks)
❖ 2018 –
 What role can psychologist play in promoting psychological well being of defence
personnel in the context of prolonged deprivation and stressful condition? (15 marks)
❖ 2020 –
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  What are some of the problems faced by defence personnel posted in tough terrain ?
Discuss how positive mental health can be promoted among them. (15 marks)
❖ 2021 –
 Discuss the psychological tests used for the selection of defence personnel. (10 marks)
❖ 2023 –
 Discuss the strategies for promoting positive mental health among defence
personnel.15

B. SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY
❖ 2010 –
 How can psychologists help sports persons in enhancing their performance on the field
? (20)
❖ 2011 –
 Examine the role of “Mental-Plus-Muscle “ Practices in training of athletes ? (30)
❖ 2012 –
 Explain the concept of 'team-cohesiveness' in the context of sports. How can
teamwork be improved through the application of sports psychology ? (12)
❖ 2013 –
 Discuss how the psychological training given to sports persons can be useful for
administrators with reference to maintaining team spirit and group morale ? (10)
❖ 2014 –
 What role can mental imagery play in enhancing the performance of sportspersons?
Discuss. (10)
❖ 2016 –
 Discuss the role of cognitive and behaviour therapies in improving the performance of
sports persons. (15 marks)
❖ 2017 –
 Explain how cohesiveness can be promoted in sport teams by using psychological
principle ? (10 marks)
❖ 2018 –
 Discuss the most commonly used techniques or skills psychologists teach to athletes
for improving their performance. (10 marks)
❖ 2021 –
 Elaborate on psychological interventions for improving performance in team games
like hockey. (15 marks)
❖ 2022 –
 Which principles of psychology are helpful for developing team spirit in sportspersons
? (10)
❖ 2023 –
 What psychological interventions can be planned to improve the performance of
athletes? 10

C.MASS MEDIA
❖ 2013 –

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  What explanations are offered by psychological theories about the manner in which
media influences antisocial behaviour ? (20)
❖ 2017 –
 Explain the role of mass media in value development. How can the mass media and
information technology be used for promoting pro-social values? (15)
❖ 2020 –
 'Values cannot be fostered through TV and mass media', Critically evaluate the
statement. (10)
❖ 2022 –
 Media is one of the key factors in promoting pro-social or anti-social behaviour.
Defend your point of view. (15)

D. TERRORISM
❖ 2010 –
 'Terrorism begins in the minds of young people and it is in their mind that lasting
solutions to the problem is to be sought'. Comment on this statement and suggest the
remedial measures ? (30)
❖ 2013 –
 Discuss the relative significance of group factors versus personality factors in
explaining the behaviour of terrorists ? (20)
❖ 2014 –
 What psychological factors keep the group of terrorists cohesive ? (15)
❖ 2023 –
 To what extent individual’s life experiences are relevant for understanding
terrorism?15

14. Psychology of Gender: Issues of discrimination, Management of

diversity; Glass ceiling effect, Self-fulfilling prophesy, Women and
Indian society.

❖ 2010 –
 Is gender difference dichotomous or does it constitute a continuum ? Explain in the
light of research on masculinity - feminity ? (20)
❖ 2011 –
 Discuss the challenges of managing gender biases in Indian Society ? (30)
❖ 2012 –
 Discuss the components of gender-sensitivity training. Indicate importance in the
context its of management of workforce diversity ? (12)
 What is glass-ceiling effect? Explain the causal factors underlying it. What remedial
steps can be taken by the employing organisations to minimise the glass-ceiling effect
? (20)
❖ 2013 –
 Define 'self-fulfilling prophecy'. Can it affect the students' performance belonging to
special categories ? (10)

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  What lesson can be drawn from psychological research to promote gender equality in
the work place ? (15)
 Discuss the psychological implications of the ‘Glass Ceiling ‘ effect from the
perspective of an administrator ? (15)
❖ 2014 –
 What are gender stereotypes in India? How do they feed into gender discrimination ?
(15)
❖ 2015 –
 "Glass ceiling effects in organisations are rooted in socialisation and family” . Discuss
with reference to the psychological bases of gender role development ? (15)
 Does the notion of Self-Fulfilling prophecy related to achievement satisfactorily
explain gender differences in achievements ? (15)
❖ 2016 –
 What factors account for gender differences in India ? Suggest some psychological
measures to reduce gender differences. (15 marks)
❖ 2018 –
 Discuss the Relationship between sex role stereotyping , self fulfilling prophecy and
glass ceiling effect in a society ? (15 marks)
❖ 2019 –
 How can community play an important role in providing safety to women? Discuss
(10 marks )
❖ 2020 –
 What is meant by glass ceiling effect? Discuss the factors that facilitated some women
to break this glass ceiling. Illustrate with some examples. (10 marks)
❖ 2021 –
 How does a self-fulfilling prophecy work? Describe how the gender bias is an
example of self-fulfilling prophecy in Indian context. (15 marks)
❖ 2022 –
 Discuss nature and psychological consequences of sexual harassment of women at
workplace . Suggest different behavioural patterns to overcome it ? (20)
 Discuss Gender Schema Theory and describe its contribution in explaining the
personality of a housewife in a traditional family.(15)
❖ 2023 –
 How does gender socialization in India lead to gender discrimination? 20
 How does self-fulfilling prophecy work in case of traditional Indian women? 10

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