2017

Question 1

A recent study showed that Alzheimer’s disease may be partly inherited.
John’s father suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. John is keen to get genetically
tested to see if he will develop Alzheimer’s disease.

Explain why John’s genotype will not reveal whether he will suffer from
Alzheimer’s disease.

Answer 1

the genetic test reveals the genotype not the phenotype
* John’s genotype will only reveal his set of genes (not their interaction with the environment)
* a genetic test will only reveal if he is predisposed to suffering Alzheimer’s disease but will
not reveal whether he will develop/suffer from the disorder
* environmental factors may contribute to the disorder (it depends on an interaction between
inherited factors and the environment).
Credit other relevant material.
Note: merely defining genotype and/or phenotype is not creditworthy.

Question 2

Describe the structure of the personality according to the psychodynamic
approach.

Answer 2

personality is made up of 3 parts; the id, ego and superego. This point is essential for 4
marks.
* elaboration regarding the components
* the id: Focuses on self (selfish), irrational and emotional, deals with feelings and
needs, seeks pleasure/hedonistic (reference to ‘pleasure principle), formed from
birth-18mo, unconscious part of the mind
* the ego: Rational, balancing the id and superego, reference to ‘reality principle’,
formed between 18mo-3yrs, conscious part of the mind
* the superego: Reference to ‘morality principle’, acts as the conscience or moral
guide, based on parental and societal values, formed between 3-6yrs, unconscious
part of the mind
* elaboration regarding the dynamic nature of the three components
* experience/conflicts in childhood shape the development of the 3 parts affecting how a
person behaves
* description of the levels of consciousness
Credit structural descriptions of personality according to other psychodynamic theorists.