All 8 questions from UPSC Civil Services Mains Psychology
2022 Paper II (400 marks total). Every stem reproduced in full,
with directive-word analysis, marks, word limits, and answer-approach pointers.
8Questions
400Total marks
2022Year
Paper IIPaper
Topics covered
Cognitive skills, reliability, power politics, community psychology, abnormal behaviour (1)Mental health and rehabilitation of Indian youth, anxiety disorder (1)Vocational guidance, psychological tests, employee selection (1)Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy, cognitive problems in aged, community psychology (1)Social integration, Internet addiction, entrepreneurial behaviour, technology impact, team spirit (1)Disadvantaged children, sexual harassment at workplace, media and social behaviour (1)Mass media effects, disadvantaged children needs, social conflicts (1)Advertising, pollution and crowding, Gender Schema Theory (1)
A
Q1
50M150wCompulsorydiscussCognitive skills, reliability, power politics, community psychology, abnormal behaviour
Answer the following in about 150 words each : 10×5=50
(a) In the light of research, discuss various ways to enhance cognitive skills of the gifted children. 10
(b) Some measures can be reliable but not valid. Illustrate with relevant examples. 10
(c) Explain how power and politics go hand-in-hand. 10
(d) What is community psychology ? Mention few skills and qualities a community psychologist should have. 10
(e) What are different criteria for labelling abnormal behaviour ? 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
निम्नलिखित में से प्रत्येक का लगभग 150 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए :
(a) अनुसंधान के आलोक में, प्रतिभाशाली बच्चों के संज्ञानात्मक कौशल को बढ़ाने के विभिन्न तरीकों की विवेचना कीजिए । 10
(b) कुछ माप विश्वसनीय हो सकते हैं लेकिन मान्य नहीं । प्रासंगिक उदाहरणों सहित समझाइए । 10
(c) सत्ता और राजनीति कैसे साथ-साथ चलती हैं, व्याख्या कीजिए । 10
(d) सामुदायिक मनोविज्ञान क्या है ? सामुदायिक मनोवैज्ञानिक के कुछ कौशल तथा गुणों का उल्लेख कीजिए । 10
(e) असामान्य व्यवहार को चिह्नित करने के लिए विभिन्न मानदंड क्या हैं ? 10
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Define > Theory or model > Evidence > Application. (a) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (b) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (d) define: precise definition > the distinguishing feature > one example | (e) enumerate: list the items in order > one line each > no commentary Full marks: Comprehensive, well-structured, with specific examples and research references.
Mention specific cognitive enhancement techniques (e.g., metacognition, problem-solving)
Cite relevant research or studies on gifted education
Discuss the role of curriculum enrichment or acceleration
Provide a balanced view of challenges and benefits
Define reliability and validity clearly
Provide a concrete example of a reliable but invalid measure
Explain why the example is reliable (consistency)
Explain why the example is invalid (lack of accuracy)
50MdiscussMental health and rehabilitation of Indian youth, anxiety disorder
(a) Discuss the various strategies necessary for rehabilitation of mentally ill Indian youth. 15
(b) Discuss the challenges to mental health of Indian youth. As a psychologist, suggest ways to foster their mental health. 15
(c) Describe the instrumental role of biology, conditioning, cognition and stress in developing anxiety disorder. 20
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) मानसिक रूप से बीमार भारतीय युवाओं के पुनर्वास के लिए आवश्यक विभिन्न रणनीतियों की चर्चा कीजिए । 15
(b) भारतीय युवाओं के मानसिक स्वास्थ्य हेतु चुनौतियों की चर्चा कीजिए । एक मनोवैज्ञानिक के रूप में, उनके मानसिक स्वास्थ्य का ध्यान रखने के तरीके सुझाइए । 15
(c) दुश्चिंता विकार विकसित करने में जीवविज्ञान, अनुकूलन, अनुभूति और तनाव की महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका का वर्णन कीजिए । 20
Answer approach & key points
(a) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance Full marks: Comprehensive coverage of all 4 factors in (c) with specific theories; (a) and (b) show deep Indian context and professional application.
(a) 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
(b) Discuss uses, misuses and limitations of psychological tests in clinical setting. 20
(c) Why is selection considered to be a process of infusion of fresh blood in the organisation ? Discuss the steps involved in employee selection. 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) अपने देश के साधारण परिदृश्य के संदर्भ में, 'पाठशाला के बाहर' के व्यावसायिक मार्गदर्शन का महत्व विस्तार से बताइए । इसके लिए किन विशेष रणनीतियों का उपयोग किया जाना चाहिए ? 15
(b) नैदानिक व्यवस्था में मनोवैज्ञानिक परीक्षणों के उपयोगों, दुरुपयोगों तथा सीमाओं पर चर्चा कीजिए । 20
(c) चयन को संगठन में युवा बल की भर्ती की प्रक्रिया क्यों माना जाता है ? कर्मचारी चयन में शामिल चरणों की चर्चा कीजिए । 15
Answer approach & key points
Framework: null. (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Comprehensive coverage of all parts with specific Indian context, named tools, and clear structure.
Context of Indian scenario (unemployment, skill gap)
Significance: bridging education-employment gap
Strategies: community outreach, NGO partnerships
Strategies: digital platforms, industry collaboration
50MdiscussRational Emotive Behaviour Therapy, cognitive problems in aged, community psychology
(a) Discuss important concepts of Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy along with its applications. 15
(b) Discuss the major limitations of the aged having cognitive problems. Mention strategies used to improve their psycho-social health. 15
(c) How can community psychologists bring positive social change in order to address mental health and well-being in society ? Explain with suitable examples. 20
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) तर्कसंगत भावनात्मक व्यवहार चिकित्सा की महत्वपूर्ण संकल्पनाओं की इसके अनुप्रयोगों के साथ चर्चा कीजिए । 15
(b) संज्ञानात्मक समस्याओं से ग्रस्त बुजुर्गों को आने वाली प्रमुख बाधाओं पर चर्चा कीजिए । उनके मनोसामाजिक स्वास्थ्य में सुधार करने के लिए प्रयुक्त रणनीतियों का उल्लेख कीजिए । 15
(c) समाज में मानसिक स्वास्थ्य तथा कल्याण को संबोधित करने के लिए सामुदायिक मनोवैज्ञानिक किस प्रकार सकारात्मक सामाजिक परिवर्तन ला सकते हैं ? उपयुक्त उदाहरणों सहित समझाइए । 20
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT). (a) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Comprehensive coverage of all required concepts, clear examples, and strong analytical depth.
Define ABC model (Activating event, Beliefs, Consequences)
Explain the role of irrational beliefs in emotional disturbance
Describe the D-E process (Disputing, Effective new beliefs)
Provide specific applications (e.g., anxiety, depression, phobias)
Identify major cognitive limitations (e.g., memory, processing speed)
Discuss the impact of these limitations on daily functioning
Mention specific strategies to improve psycho-social health
50M150wCompulsoryexplainSocial integration, Internet addiction, entrepreneurial behaviour, technology impact, team spirit
Answer the following in about 150 words each : 10×5=50
(a) Explain the concept of social integration citing suitable examples. 10
(b) Discuss the ill effects of Internet addiction among adolescents. Suggest intervention for arresting the same. 10
(c) Discuss the characteristics of entrepreneurial behaviour. 10
(d) Throw light on negative impact of technological growth in our real life. 10
(e) Which principles of psychology are helpful for developing team spirit in sportspersons ? 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
निम्नलिखित में से प्रत्येक का लगभग 150 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए :
(a) उपयुक्त उदाहरणों का हवाला देते हुए सामाजिक एकीकरण की अवधारणा की व्याख्या कीजिए । 10
(b) इंटरनेट की लत लगने से किशोरों पर पड़ने वाले दुष्प्रभावों की चर्चा कीजिए । इसकी रोकथाम हेतु हस्तक्षेप सुझाइए । 10
(c) उद्यमशीलता के व्यवहार की विशेषताओं की चर्चा कीजिए । 10
(d) अपने वास्तविक जीवन में प्रौद्योगिकीय विकास के नकारात्मक प्रभाव पर प्रकाश डालिए । 10
(e) मनोविज्ञान के कौन-से सिद्धांत खिलाड़ियों में टीम भावना विकसित करने में सहायक होते हैं ? 10
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Social Integration (Tönnies/Parsons), Internet Addiction (Cognitive-Behavioral), Entrepreneurial Behaviour (Schumpeter), Technology Impact, Sports Psychology (Group Dynamics). (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (d) highlight: name the salient points > one line of substance each > close | (e) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise definitions, named theories (Tönnies, McClelland), specific examples, balanced view.
Define social integration (unity/cohesion)
Cite suitable examples (e.g., festivals, sports)
Mention role of shared values/norms
Briefly link to social stability
List ill effects (physical/psychological/social)
Suggest specific interventions (CBT/parental control)
50Mcritically examineDisadvantaged children, sexual harassment at workplace, media and social behaviour
(a) Critically examine the numerous innovations and programmes of the Government in educating and motivating disadvantaged children towards their development. 15
(b) Discuss nature and psychological consequences of sexual harassment of women at workplace. Suggest different behavioural patterns to overcome it. 20
(c) Media is one of the key factors in promoting pro-social or anti-social behaviour. Defend your point of view. 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) वंचित बच्चों को उनके विकास के लिए शिक्षित एवं प्रेरित करने में सरकार के कई नवाचारों और कार्यक्रमों का समीक्षात्मक परीक्षण कीजिए । 15
(b) कार्यस्थल पर महिलाओं के यौन उत्पीड़न के स्वरूप और मनोवैज्ञानिक परिणामों की चर्चा कीजिए । उस पर काबू पाने के लिए विभिन्न व्यवहारात्मक प्रतिरूप सुझाइए । 20
(c) समाजानुकूल या असामाजिक व्यवहार को बढ़ावा देने में संचार माध्यम प्रमुख कारकों में से एक है । अपने दृष्टिकोण का प्रतिवाद कीजिए । 15
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Psychology Paper II (Social & Applied Psychology). (a) examine: intro > how/why with reasoning > evidence > conclusion | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) comment: context > arguments both sides > judgment > close Full marks: Comprehensive, critical, and well-structured with specific examples and psychological depth.
Identify specific schemes (e.g., PM-SHRI, PM POSHAN, ICDS).
Explain the 'educating' mechanism (infrastructure, curriculum).
Explain the 'motivating' mechanism (scholarships, mentorship).
Provide a critical evaluation of implementation gaps.
Define the nature of workplace sexual harassment.
Detail specific psychological consequences (e.g., PTSD, anxiety).
Suggest specific behavioral patterns to overcome it.
Reference the POSH Act or relevant legal framework.
50MexploreMass media effects, disadvantaged children needs, social conflicts
(a) Elaborate the effects of mass media on emotional health and values of youth in our culture. 15
(b) Discuss how environment, culture and socio-economic relationships play an important role to meet the needs of disadvantaged children. 15
(c) Explore causal factors of social conflicts and suggest methods of resolution. 20
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) हमारी संस्कृति में युवाओं के भावनात्मक स्वास्थ्य और मूल्यों पर जनसंचार माध्यमों के प्रभावों को विस्तार से बताइए । 15
(b) वंचित बच्चों की आवश्यकताओं को पूरा करने में वातावरण, संस्कृति तथा सामाजिक-आर्थिक संबंध किस प्रकार महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाते हैं, चर्चा कीजिए । 15
(c) सामाजिक संघर्षों के कारण-कारकों का पता लगाइए और समाधान के तरीकों का सुझाव दीजिए । 20
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Social Psychology & Developmental Psychology. (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) analyse: intro > causes > effects > stakeholders/linkages > way forward Full marks: Comprehensive, well-structured, with specific examples and theoretical depth.
Define mass media and its role in socialization
Effects on emotional health (anxiety, self-esteem)
Impact on cultural values (secularism, materialism)
50Mcritically examineAdvertising, pollution and crowding, Gender Schema Theory
(a) 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
(b) Discuss pollution and crowding as agents of psycho-social and physical problems. Cite few problems and recommend remedial strategies. 20
(c) Discuss Gender Schema Theory and describe its contribution in explaining the personality of a housewife in a traditional family. 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) विज्ञापन किस प्रकार लोगों को बुद्धिमानी से खरीदने तथा उच्च जीवन स्तर की दिशा में कदम उठाने के लिए सक्षम करते हैं ? समालोचनात्मक परीक्षण कीजिए । 15
(b) मनोसामाजिक एवं शारीरिक समस्याओं के कारकों के रूप में प्रदूषण एवं भीड़-भाड़ पर चर्चा कीजिए । कुछ समस्याओं का हवाला देते हुए उपचारात्मक रणनीतियों की अनुशंसा कीजिए । 20
(c) लिंग अन्विति सिद्धांत (Gender Schema Theory) की चर्चा कीजिए तथा पारंपरिक परिवार में एक गृहिणी के व्यक्तित्व की व्याख्या करने में इसके योगदान का वर्णन कीजिए । 15
Answer approach & key points
Framework: null. (a) critically evaluate: positives > negatives/limits > conditions/safeguards > conclusion | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Comprehensive, well-structured, with specific examples and critical analysis.
Define 'intelligent buying' in consumer psychology context
Explain information provision and brand differentiation
Critique the 'higher standard of living' claim
Discuss negative effects like materialism and false needs
Define pollution and crowding as stressors
List specific physical health problems (e.g., respiratory)
List specific psychosocial problems (e.g., aggression, anxiety)