CBSE Class 12 Psychology Question Paper 2024 with Solutions

Students can use CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 Psychology with Solutions and CBSE Class 12 Informatics Practices Question Paper 2024 to familiarize themselves with the exam format and marking scheme.

CBSE Class 12 Psychology Question Paper 2024 with Solutions

Time : 3 Hrs.
Max. Marks: 70

No.of Ques:34
No. of Sections: 6

General Instructions

1. All questions are compulsory except where internal choice has been given.
2. Question Nos. 1-15 in Section A carry 1 mark each. You are expected to answer them as directed.
3. Question Nos. 16-21 in Section B are Very Short Answer Type Questions carrying 2 marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 30 words.
4. Question Nos. 22-24 in Section C are Short Answer Type Questions carrying 3 marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 60 words.
5. Question Nos. 25-28 in Section D are Long Answer Type-I Questions carrying 4 marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 120 words.
6. Question Nos. 29 and 30 in Section E are Long Answer Type-II Questions carrying 6 marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 200 words.
7. Question Nos. 31-34 in Section F are based on two case studies given. Answer to each 1 mark question should not exceed 20 words. Answer to each 2 marks question should not exceed 30 words.

Section A
Multiple Choice Questions (Each Que. carries 1 M)

Question 1.
Sangeeta is a counsellor. She interacts with the client and seeks information from the client on one-to-one basis. She is using …… as a method of assessment. (1)
(a) self-report
(b) observation
(c) psychological test
(d) interview
Answer:
(d) interview

Question 2.
Surendra’s newborn son has no idea of his own self. This refers to which of the following? (1)
(i) He is unaware of various objects in his environment, such as a chair or a table in his room.
(ii) He is able to cry when he is hungry.
(iii) Sometimes he smiles when he sleeps.
(iv) People around him are part of his experiences. However, he cannot gather any meaning from it.
Options
(a) (i) and (ii)
(b) (i) and (iv)
(c) (iii) and (iv)
(d) (ii) and (iii)
Answer:
(b) (i) and (iv)

Question 3.
In this question, a statement of Assertion (A) is followed by a statement of Reason (R). Read the statements and choose the appropriate option. (1)
Assertion (A) The theory of primary mental abilities states that intelligence consists of primary abilities, each of which is relatively independent of the others.
Reason (R) This theory explain that intelligence consists of abilities operating at two levels, called Level I and Level II.
Codes
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false
(d) A is false, but R is true
Answer:
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A

Question 4.
Naresh endures personal stresses due to noisy surroundings, commuting, water shortage and traffic snarls. These stresses can be reported as ……. .
(a) life events
(b) everyday hassles
(c) traumatic events
(d) physical stress
Answer:
(b) everyday hassles

Question 5.
Ritika’s stress level was good for her and enhanced her performance. The term used to
describe her level of stress is called …… (1)
(a) strain
(b) distress
(c) eustress
(d) appraisal
Answer:
(c) eustress

Question 6.
In this question, a statement of Assertion (A) is followed by a statement of Reason (R). Read the statements and choose the appropriate option. 1
Assertion (A) Students facing important examinations can be highly stressed.
Reason (R) Reduced levels of natural killer cell cytotoxicity have been found in people who are highly stressed.
Codes
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false
(d) A is false, but R is true
Answer:
(b) Both A and R are true, but Reason R is not the correct explanation of A

Question 7.
An ancient theory holds that abnormal behaviour can be explained by the
(a) inadequacies in thinking, feeling or perceiving the world
(b) operation of supernatural and magical forces
(c) disturbed interpersonal relationships
(d) belief that individuals behave strangely because their bodies and brains are not working properly
Answer:
(b) operation of supernatural and magical forces

Question 8.
Ranjeet is unable to stop thinking about locking his house. At work, he is preoccupied with this unreasonable and repetitive thought. This is predominantly a symptom of …….. (1)
(a) Anxiety disorder
(b) Panic disorder
(c) Obsessive behaviour
(d) Compulsive behaviour
Answer:
(c) Obsessive behaviour

Question 9.
Mitali dominates and bullies others without any provocation. Thus, she exhibits which of the following types of aggression? (1)
(a) Verbal aggression
(b) Physical aggression
(c) Hostile aggression
(d) Proactive aggression
Answer:
(d) Proactive aggression

Question 10.
Hina’s therapist at the rehabilitation centre administers ………. to improve the basic functions of her attention and memory. (1)
(a) social skills training
(b) vocational training
(c) cognitive retraining
(d) occupational therapy
Answer:
(c) cognitive retraining

Question 11.
The group that is the target of prejudice is sometimes responsible for continuing the prejudice. The members of this target group may behave in a manner that proves the description to be true. This explains the concept of ……..
(a) kemal of truth
(b) self-fulfilling prophecy
(c) scapegoating
(d) ingroup bias
Answer:
(b) self-fulfilling prophecy

Question 12.
Mayank helped the victims of the flood-affected region unconditionally, as he understood that they were in need. This is an example of …….
(a) Social cognition
(b) Social facilitation
(c) Pro-social behaviour
(d) Impression formation
Answer:
(c) Pro-social behaviour

Question 13.
In this question, a statement of Assertion (A) is followed by a statement of Reason (R). Read the statements and choose the appropriate option. (1)
Assertion (A) A person’s behvaiour is never contrary to her/his attitude towards a particular topic.
Reason (R) There would be consistency between attitudes and behaviour when the attitude is strong.
Codes
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false
(d) A is false, but R is true
Answer:
(d) A is false, but R is true

Question 14.
The relative social position given to group members by others is known as ……. .
(a) roles
(b) norms
(c) status
(d) structure
Answer:
(c) status

Question 15.
The stage in which there is conflict among members about how the target of the group is to be achieved is called the ……. stage.
(a) forming
(b) storming
(c) norming
(d) performing
Answer:
(b) storming

Section B
Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 16.
Explain the term ‘Assessment’.
Answer:
The ‘Assessment’ refers to systematically gathering information and data about an individual’s characteristics, abilities, behaviours and other relevant factors.
The main goal of assessment is to understand and evaluate various aspects of an individual’s psychological functioning, such as cognitive abilities, personality traits, emotional functioning and social skills.

Question 17.
‘Intelligence by itself does not ensure creativity’. Do you agree with this statement ? Given reasons and examples in support of your answer.
Answer:
Yes, intelligence does not ensure creativity as intelligence is related to learning the skill while creativity is related to generating new ideas and solutions to odd situations.
For example, to be a great chef you are required to gain knowledge about making the dish, but to be creative you are required to garnish and modify the dish according to your consumer’s taste.

Question 18.
In India, Mallick and Joshi have developed the Jodhpur Multi-phasic Personality Inventory (JMPI). Which test has it been adapted from? Explain its most important use. (2)
Answer:
Jodhpur Multi-phasic Personality Inventory (JMPI) is
developed by Mallick and Joshi. This test is adopted from ‘Minnesota Multi-phasic Personality Inventory (MMPI)
The test is very effective in identifying varieties of psychopathology.

Question 19.
Mukesh is preparing for an entrance examination and is anxious. He has a persistent irrational thought that he would not succeed. Explain the therapy that can help him understand and overcome his anxiety. (2)
Or
Wasim has a phobia of lizards. What causes will a behaviour therapist assign to Wasim’s phobia?
Answer:
Two therapies can help Mukesh understand and overcome his anxiety. These are cognitive behavioural therapy and exposure therapy.
Cognitive behavioural therapy will help to boost his confidence and exposure therapy will help him prepare in competitive mode to understand his performance level.

Or

A behavioural therapist wouldn’t definitively assign a single cause to Wasim’s phobia of lizards (herpetophobia).
Several factors commonly contribute to phobias like traumatic experience, observational learning and evolutionary preparedness.

Question 20.
The therapy which considers a person as a whole entity consisting of body, mind and emotions, also explains the alleviation of the client’s problems. Identify the therapy and state any two key features of this therapy.
Answer:
The therapy that considers a person as a whole entity consisting of body, mind and emotions, is holistic therapy.
The two key features of holistic therapy are

1. Mind-Body-Spirit Integration Holistic therapy views a person as a whole interconnected system, where physical, mental and emotional well-being are all considered crucial for overall health.
2. Focus on Root Causes Holistic therapy aims to identify the underlying causes of a client’s problems.

Question 21.
Mridul feels very happy to join a group of people in his neighbourhood to start a tree plantation campaign. Explain any two components of his attitude towards a ‘Green Environment’.
Answer:
Mridul’s excitement about joining a tree plantation campaign reflects two key components of his positive attitude towards a green environment. These are

1. Cognitive Component It refers to Mridul’s beliefs and knowledge about the environment. His decision to participate suggests that he understands the value of trees and their role in a healthy ecosystem.
2. Affective Component It refers to Mridul’s feelings and emotions towards the environment. His happiness to be involved indicates a positive emotional response to environmental issues. He likely feels good about contributing to a greener and healthier planet.

Section C
Short Answer Type Questions (Each Que. carries3 M)

Question 22.
Mohit understands the motives, feelings and behaviours of other people and can develop a comfortable relationship with them. He also likes to travel as he recognises the beauty of different species of flora and fauna. Identify the types of intelligence that Mohit possesses in accordance with Gardner’s theory. From the information provided about Mohit, explain any two other types of intelligence that Mohit may not be possessing.
Answer:
Based on Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences, Mohit demonstrates the following types of intelligence

1. Interpersonal Intelligence Mohit’s ability to understand others’ motives, feelings and behaviours points to strong interpersonal intelligence.
2. Naturalistic Intelligence Mohit’s appreciation for the beauty of various flora and fauna suggests an affinity for nature.

The two other bits of intelligence that Mohit might not possess, based on the given information can be Logical-Mathematical intelligence and Musical intelligence.

Question 23.
Describe any three skills that can help a person meet life’s challenges.
Answer:
The three life skills that can help a person meet life’s challenges are

1. Problem-solving This life skill equips you to navigate challenges by breaking them down into manageable steps. It involves analysing the situation, identifying potential solutions, evaluating their consequences and choosing the best course of action.
2. Communication Effective communication is crucial for navigating life’s challenges. It involves expressing yourself clearly, both verbally and non-verbally, while actively listening to understand others.
3. Stress Management It involves techniques like relaxation exercises, mindfulness practices and time management strategies. When faced with a stressful situation, these techniques can help you stay calm, focused and cope healthily.

Question 24.
Can a long standing pattern of deviant behaviour be considered abnormal ? Elaborate and state an example of the same.
Or
Is separation anxiety disorder classified under neurodevelopmental disorders? Give reasons for your answer by enumerating the symptoms of separation anxiety disorder.
Answer:
Yes, a long-standing pattern of deviant behaviour can be considered abnormal, particularly if it significantly deviates from societal norms, causes distress or impairment and persists over time.

For example, chronic substance abuse can be considered a long-standing pattern of deviant behaviour that is abnormal.

Substance abuse involves the excessive and recurrent use of drugs or alcohol despite negative consequences on an individual’s physical health, mental well-being, relationships and functioning. While occasional experimentation with substances may not be uncommon, persistent and compulsive substance abuse that interferes with daily life and responsibilities is considered abnormal.

Or

No, separation anxiety disorder is not classified under neurodevelopmental disorders. It is classified under anxiety disorders. Neurodevelopmental disorders are conditions that arise in childhood and are characterised by atypical development in specific areas, such as communication, social interaction, or motor skills. Separation anxiety disorder, on the other hand, focuses on excessive anxiety and fear related to separation from attachment figures.

The symptoms of separation anxiety disorder are

• Excessive distress when separation from attachment figures is anticipated or occurs.
• Excessive worry about losing attachment figures or harm befalling them.
• Persistent worry about an event that might lead to separation.
• Unwillingness to leave attachment figures or go to places where they might not be present.
• Difficulty sleeping or nightmares related to separation.
• Physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or nausea when separation is imminent.

Section D
Long Answer Type-1 Questions (Each Que. carries 4M)

Question 25.
Vimal is brought up in a society which is technologically advanced. Explain the intelligence that is adopted by him. Is it likely to be tuned by the cultural factors? Given reasons for your answer. (4)
Answer:
Vimal, raised in a technologically advanced society, is likely to adopt a form of intelligence that is influenced by his cultural context. In such a society, emphasis is often placed on technological literacy, problem-solving skills, adaptability to rapidly changing environments, and the ability to effectively utilise and navigate digital technologies. Vimal’s intelligence may be tuned to excel in areas such as information processing, computer literacy, critical thinking and innovation.

Cultural factors play a significant role in shaping intelligence by determining the valued skills, knowledge, and behaviours within a particular society. Vimal’s intelligence reflects the priorities and demands of his technologically advanced culture, illustrating how cultural context influences the development and expression of intelligence.

Question 26.
A psychologist used projective techniques to assess Rupa’s personality. What are the chief features and benefits of using these tests for her, when compared to the direct methods? (4)
Answer:
Projective techniques assess Rupa’s personality indirectly.
The chief features and benefits of using projective techniques are

• Projective techniques were developed to assess unconscious motives and feelings. These techniques are based on the assumption that a less structured or unstructured stimulus or situation will allow the individual to project her/his feelings, desires and needs on to that situation.
• Projective techniques use various kinds of stimulus materials and situations for assessing personality like
  • Some of them require reporting associations with stimuli (e.g. words, inkblots).
  • Some involve story writing around pictures.
  • Some require sentence completions.
  • Some require expression through drawings.
  • Some require choice of stimuli from a large set of stimuli.
• The nature of stimuli and responses in these techniques vary to large extent. The stimuli are relatively or fully unstructured and poorly defined.
• The analysis of personality with the help of projective techniques assist us to understand unconscious motives, deep-rooted conflicts and emotional complexes of an individual.

Question 27.
Explain any four techniques used in behaviour therapy. (4)
Answer:
The four techniques used in Behaviour therapy are as follows

1. Positive Reinforcement Rewarding desired behaviours makes them more likely to happen again.
2. Exposure Therapy Gradually exposing a person to her fears in a safe environment helps his/her to manage anxiety. This could involve showing pictures of spiders (mild fear) before progressing to seeing real ones (greater fear).
3. Aversion Therapy Pairing an unwanted behaviour with something unpleasant discourages it. For example, someone trying to quit smoking might imagine the unpleasant taste of cigarettes to curb cravings.
4. Token Economies Rewarding desired behaviours with tokens that can be exchanged for privileges motivates positive change. Imagine children earning tokens for good behaviour that they can later trade for playtime.

Question 28.
Sakshi is a member of the school basketball team. Santosh is a member of a group of teachers that help with co-curricular activities in the school. State the key differences between Sakshi’s team and Santosh’s group. (4)
Or
Madan joined the ‘Teach an Adult’ group. He could fulfil his desire to help the adults who had no opportunity to study. Because of his participation in the group, he was perceived to be generous and important. Why do you think Madam joined this group?
Answer:
The key differences between Sakshi’s team and Santosh’s group were

Sakshis Team	Santosh’s Group
Sakshis school basketball team is primarily focused on competition and athletics.	Santosh’s group, on the other hand, is a co-curricular activity club led by teachers.
They likely have a coach who leads practices focused on developing basketball skills, strategies and teamwork to win games.	These clubs aim to explore interests beyond academics and may include activities like debate, art or chess.
Participation is likely determined by tryouts or selection based on skill level.	Participation is usually open to all students interested in the specific activity, regardless of prior experience or skill level. The emphasis is on learning, enjoyment, and fostering a community around a shared interest.

Or

The possible reasons for which Madan might have joined the group are

• Altruistic Desire Madan is motivated by a genuine wish to help adults who missed the chance to learn about technology. He finds satisfaction in bridging the digital divide and empowering others.
• Personal Fulfillment The group allows Madan to share his knowledge and expertise. This can boost his self-esteem and create a sense of purpose. The positive perception of him as generous and important likely reinforces his sense of contribution and social value.

Section E
Long Answer Type-II Questions (Each Que. carries 5M)

Question 29.
Discuss the interview and observation methods used in behavioural analysis. Describe the problems we face in using these methods. (6)
Or
Enumerate the structure of personality with respect of Freud’s Theory of Personality.
Answer:
The interview method involves direct communication between the analyst and the subject. Through structured or semi-structured interviews, analysts can gather qualitative data about the subject’s experiences, perceptions, and motivations. Interviews allow for in-depth exploration of specific behaviours and underlying factors contributing to them.

The observation method involves systematically observing and recording the subject’s behaviours in naturalistic or controlled settings. Observations provide objective data about the frequency, duration, and context of behaviours, offering valuable insights into patterns and triggers.

However, both methods come with challenges. Interviews may be subject to biases, as subjects may provide socially desirable responses or withhold – information. Analysts must establish rapport, ask open-ended questions, and interpret verbal and non-verbal cues accurately.

Observations may be influenced by the presence of th§ observer, leading to altered behaviour (the Hawthorne effect). Additionally, interpreting observed behaviours requires careful attention to context and potential alternative explanations.

Or

Sigmund Freud’s Theory of Personality, known as Psychoanalytic theory, proposed that personality is structured into three components as follows

(i) Id The id is the most primitive and instinctual part of the personality. It operates on the pleasure principle, seeking immediate gratification of basic needs and desires, regardless of social norms or consequences.

The id is driven by unconscious impulses and urges, such as hunger, thirst, and sexual desires. It operates without regard for reality or morality and is present from birth.

(ii) Ego The ego is the rational and realistic part of the personality. It develops in early childhood to mediate between the demands of the id, the constraints of reality, and the standards of the superego. The ego operates on the reality principle, seeking to satisfy the id’s desires in socially acceptable ways that minimise negative consequences. It employs defence mechanisms, such as repression and rationalisation, to cope with conflicts and reduce anxiety.

(iii) Superego The superego represents the internalised moral standards and values of society, as well as the individual’s conscience. It develops during childhood through identification with parental and societal figures and internalisation of their moral teachings. The superego strives for perfection and upholds moral ideals, often leading to feelings of guilt or shame when one’s actions fall short of these standards. It serves as a counterbalance to the id’s impulses and guides moraldecision-making.

Question 30.
What do you understand by the term ‘Dissociation’? Explain its various forms. (6)
Or
What are the common features of neurodevelopmental disorders? Describe any three neurodevelopmental disorders.
Answer:
Dissociation is a psychological phenomenon
characterised by a disruption or detachment from one’s thoughts, feelings, memories or sense of identity. It involves a disconnection between different aspects of consciousness, leading to a sense of detachment, unreality, or loss of control over one’s thoughts and actions.

The various forms of dissociation are as follows

• Depersonalisation This involves feeling disconnected from one’s body or self as if observing oneself from an external perspective. Individuals may feel as though they are floating or detached from reality, leading to a sense of unreality or numbness.
• Derealisation Derealisation involves feeling disconnected from one’s surroundings, leading to a perception of the external world as unreal, distorted, or unfamiliar. Objects may appear distorted, colours may seem muted, and the environment may feel surreal or dreamlike.
• Dissociative Amnesia This involves the inability to recall important personal information, typically associated with traumatic or stressful events. Memory loss may be selective, affecting specific events or periods, and may be accompanied by feelings of confusion or disorientation.
• Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) It formerly known as multiple personality disorder, DID involves the presence of two or more distinct personality states or identities within the same individual. Each identity may have its memories, behaviours, and sense of self, leading to gaps in memory and disruptions in identity.

Or

The common features of neurodevelopmental disorders are as follows

• Onset in Early Development Neurodevelopmental disorders typically emerge during early childhood, often before the age of three. Symptoms may become apparent as developmental milestones are missed or delayed, leading to concerns about the child’s functioning.
• Persistence Neurodevelopmental disorders tend to persist over time, with symptoms continuing into adolescence and adulthood. However, the severity and presentation of symptoms may change as individuals grow and develop.
• Impact on Multiple Domains These disorders affect multiple areas of functioning, including intellectual abilities, language skills, motor coordination, attention, social interaction, and emotional regulation.

The three forms of neurodevelopmental disorders are

(i) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) It is characterised by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities. Individuals with ASD may have difficulty understanding social cues, forming relationships and communicating effectively.

(ii) Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) It is characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. Symptoms may include difficulty sustaining attention, fidgeting, excessive talking and difficulty waiting one’s turn.

(iii) Intellectual Disability (ID) It is characterised by deficits in intellectual functioning (such as reasoning, problem-solving and adaptive skills) and deficits in adaptive functioning (such as daily living skills). Individuals with ID may have ‘ difficulty learning new information, understanding abstract concepts, and performing everyday tasks independently.

Section F
Case-Based Questions (Each case carries Ques. of 3 M) (6)

Read the case study given below and answer the question (Q.31 and 32) that follow.

The fire department received a call about a fire that swept through a house. The fire started with the explosion of a gas cylinder used for cooking. The injured Suman was lying on a hospital bad. She was talking to a press reporter. She expressed that her mother was in the kitchen when the incident occurred. The cylinder burst with a loud sound and the fire spread at great speed.

The exit door of the house had also caught fire Her mother shouted in panic as if she had lost all hope, and she fainted in the kitchen. However, Suman was determined to save her mother. She said “I don’t know how I got the energy to drag my mother to the room. I broke the window there and jumped out. My back got hurt, but without wasting any time, I sought the help of my neighbour and rescued my mother. I am happy that we are both safe”. Hearing her story, the press reporter was impressed with her chivalry.

Question 31.
Referring to the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) model, what immediate impact does the fire (noxious stimulus) have on Suman’s mother? (1)
Answer:
The fire triggers the alarm reaction stage in Suman’s mother, causing panic, increased heart rate, and possibly fainting due to stress.

Question 32.
Suman and her mother were exposed to prolonged stress as the fire spread. How does the General Adaptation Syndrome model explain Suman and her mother’s conditions. (2)

Read the case study given below and answer the questions (Q.33 and 34) that follow.
Sophia Duleep Singh was the daughter of Maharaja Duleep Singh- the last Sikh emperor of Punjab. Sophia was a long-time supporter of the Women’s Suffrage Movement (right to vote) and a leading campaigner for changing attitudes about women’s rights in Britain. However, she remains a little-known figure.

In 1910, she was part of a delegation of 300 suffragettes who marched towards the Parliament in London. The Prime Minister refused to meet the women and the demonstration turned violent as policemen and men in the crowd outside the building beat them. Many of the demonstrators were seriously injured and the day came to be called Black Friday in the UK. Sophia was among the 119 women who were arrested.

Sophia transcended her heritage to devote herself to battling injustice and inequality. Her main causes were the struggle for Indian Independence, the welfare of Indian soldiers in the First World War and above all the fight for female suffrage. Princess Sophia supported Indians, particularly women, throughout her life.
Answer:
Suman and her mother’s exposure to prolonged stress as the fire spread, result in the resistance stage of General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS). It leads to heightened arousal, coping efforts, and mobilisation of energy to deal with the stressful situation.

Question 33.
‘Her causes were the struggle for Indian independence, the welfare of Indian soldiers in the First World War and above all the fight for female suffrage’. All of these attitudes were present without a broader attitude, i.e. the attitude against injustice and inequality. Explain the features specified here. (1)
Answer:
The feature specified is the presence of a broader attitude against injustice and inequality, encompassing various specific causes such as Indian independence, the welfare of Indian soldiers and female suffrage.

Question 34.
The characteristics of the existing attitude (towards women’s right to vote) influence the attitude change. To what extent could these have helped Sophia bring about the change in attitude towards women’s right to vote? (2)
Answer:
Sophia’s existing attitude against injustice and inequality likely provided her with the determination, passion, and resilience needed to advocate for women’s right to vote, despite facing opposition and adversity.