UPSC Mains Answer PYQ 2024: Psychology Paper 2 (Section- B) | Psychology for UPSC Optional (Notes) PDF Download

Question 5: Answer the following questions in about 150 words each

(a) Explain multilevel marketing with the help of suitable examples.

 Ans: Multilevel Marketing (MLM) is a strategy where a product is sold not only by direct sellers but also by recruiting others to sell, thereby earning a commission from their recruits' sales as well. This creates a network of distributors, forming different levels in the sales hierarchy.

The core psychology behind MLM is motivation through incentives, social influence, and the appeal of entrepreneurship. It uses persuasion tactics and peer motivation to expand the network.

Example: Companies like Amway or Herbalife operate on MLM models. A distributor sells products and recruits others, earning commission from their sales. Each new recruit forms a new level in the pyramid.

Though legal, MLM is often confused with pyramid schemes, which focus more on recruitment than on product value. Therefore, ethical concerns and regulation are critical.

MLM appeals especially in developing regions due to low entry barriers, offering income opportunities, but it also raises questions about financial risk and exploitation.

(b) Describe the psychological approaches that can be utilized to motivate disadvantaged groups to move towards development.

Ans: Motivating disadvantaged groups requires understanding psychosocial barriers such as low self-esteem, learned helplessness, and social stigma. Several psychological approaches can be applied:

1. Humanistic approach: Focuses on self-actualization and enhancing self-worth. Programs like community empowerment workshops aim to develop a sense of agency.

2. Cognitive-behavioral approach: Helps individuals challenge irrational beliefs about their capabilities. For instance, cognitive restructuring can help women in rural India believe in their entrepreneurial potential.

3. Social learning theory: Emphasizes role models and observational learning. Exposure to successful people from similar backgrounds motivates behavior change.

4. Goal-setting and reinforcement: Setting small, achievable goals and offering positive reinforcement encourages persistence.

Example: In tribal regions, interventions that mix skill development with psychosocial support have led to increased participation in education and employment.

In essence, combining skill-based training with psychological empowerment is key to motivating disadvantaged groups toward development.

(c) What is implicit prejudice? How does it differ from explicit prejudice? Explain with the help of examples.

Ans: Implicit prejudice refers to unconscious, automatic attitudes toward a group of people, while explicit prejudice involves conscious, openly expressed negative beliefs.

• Implicit prejudice operates below awareness, often influencing behavior subtly.

  • Example: A teacher unknowingly calls on boys more frequently than girls in math classes.

• Explicit prejudice is deliberate and clearly expressed.

  • Example: An individual openly states a belief that women are not suitable for leadership roles.

The Implicit Association Test (IAT) is often used in psychology to measure implicit biases, especially in areas like race, gender, and caste.

In India, someone may explicitly reject caste discrimination, but implicitly hesitate to eat food cooked by someone from a marginalized caste.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for designing interventions that target both conscious and unconscious biases, particularly in efforts toward social justice and inclusive policy-making.

(d) Discuss the impact of rapid technological growth on degradation of environment in Indian context.

 Ans: Rapid technological growth in India has improved connectivity, productivity, and innovation, but it has also contributed significantly to environmental degradation.

Key impacts include:

1. Industrialization: Expansion of factories increases air and water pollution, especially in regions like Delhi NCR and Kanpur.

2. E-waste generation: Rising use of digital devices leads to hazardous e-waste, often improperly handled in informal recycling sectors.

3. Urbanization and land use change: Construction booms linked with smart cities have led to deforestation and habitat loss.

4. Overexploitation of natural resources: Technology-driven agriculture (e.g., excessive groundwater pumping) leads to soil degradation and water scarcity.

From a psychological perspective, lack of environmental awareness and short-term utilitarian thinking exacerbate the issue. Campaigns promoting pro-environmental behavior, like Swachh Bharat and bans on plastic, attempt to counter this.

Thus, while technology is vital for development, behavioral change and sustainable innovation must be integrated to reduce environmental costs.

(e) To what extent is the role of ideology critical for understanding terrorism?

Ans: Ideology plays a crucial role in understanding the roots and persistence of terrorism. It offers a framework of beliefs that justifies violence as a means to achieve political, religious, or social goals.

1. Psychological Function: Ideology provides cognitive certainty, a sense of identity, and moral justification to terrorists.

   • Example: Extremist groups like ISIS use religious ideology to recruit and radicalize.

2. Group dynamics: Ideology helps bond members, differentiate in-group and out-group, and sustain loyalty to the cause.

3. Radicalization Process: Ideology transforms personal grievances into collective missions. Youth with identity crises may find belonging in ideological narratives.

In India, ethno-religious ideologies have fueled insurgencies (e.g., in Kashmir or Northeast India), while left-wing extremism is tied to socioeconomic ideologies of revolution.

However, ideology alone does not explain terrorism. Personal trauma, political oppression, and economic factors also interact. Thus, understanding terrorism requires a multidimensional perspective, but ideology remains a core driver in its psychological justification.

Question 6

(a) What are the prevalent forms of gender discrimination in Indian society? Discuss the measures that can be taken to eradicate them. (15 marks)

Ans: Gender discrimination in India is widespread and manifests across multiple domains—social, economic, educational, and psychological.

Prevalent forms of gender discrimination:

• Sex ratio imbalance: Due to female foeticide and infanticide, states like Haryana have had alarming sex ratios.

• Educational discrimination: Girls are often denied equal access to education due to patriarchal beliefs.

• Workplace inequality: Wage gaps, limited leadership roles, and glass ceilings persist in both formal and informal sectors.

• Domestic roles and unpaid labor: Women are burdened with housework and caregiving without recognition or compensation.

• Violence and safety issues: Gender-based violence, harassment, and restricted mobility are common, especially in urban slums and rural areas.

• Social norms and stereotypes: Cultural expectations restrict women's freedom in choosing careers or life partners.

Measures to eradicate gender discrimination:

• Education and awareness: Gender-sensitization programs in schools and workplaces.

• Legal enforcement: Stronger implementation of laws like the Domestic Violence Act, Equal Remuneration Act.

• Empowerment programs: Promoting women’s entrepreneurship, leadership, and political participation.

• Media advocacy: Positive representation of women in media helps change public perception.

• Community participation: Involving men and community leaders in changing norms.

Addressing gender discrimination needs a multi-layered approach combining legal, educational, psychological, and community-driven initiatives to foster equality.

(b) Differentiate between relative deprivation and prolonged deprivation. Discuss the psychological consequences of relative deprivation. (15 marks)

Ans: Relative deprivation is a perceived discrepancy between what one has and what one believes they deserve, especially in comparison to others. Prolonged deprivation, on the other hand, refers to chronic lack of access to basic needs like food, shelter, education, and healthcare over a long period.

Key Differences:

• Nature: Relative deprivation is psychological and subjective; prolonged deprivation is objective and material.

• Reference Point: Relative deprivation involves social comparison; prolonged deprivation is absolute and does not necessarily involve comparison.

• Duration: Relative deprivation can be temporary; prolonged deprivation is chronic and often structural.

Psychological consequences of relative deprivation:

• Frustration and resentment: Individuals may feel demoralized when comparing themselves to more advantaged groups.

• Aggression and protest behavior: Can lead to social unrest, as seen in movements like reservations for backward classes.

• Low self-esteem: Perceived inferiority may reduce confidence and motivation.

• Mental health issues: Anxiety, depression, and hopelessness may arise, particularly in urban youth comparing themselves via social media.

• Identity conflict: Young people may experience internal conflict between aspirations and actual opportunities.

Understanding relative deprivation is critical in shaping social policies and affirmative action, as it reflects not just material needs, but also emotional and psychological well-being.

(c) Discuss the role of mass media and information technology in fostering values and spreading positivity. Design a program for college students in this context. (20 marks)

Ans: Mass media and information technology (IT) play a powerful role in shaping values, beliefs, and attitudes among the youth.

Positive roles of media and IT:

• Value transmission: Media can promote tolerance, equality, and civic responsibility by showcasing positive stories and role models.

• Awareness and education: Through documentaries, news, and infotainment, media informs youth about social issues and scientific thinking.

• Psychological support: Platforms for peer support, mental health apps, and motivational content help reduce alienation and stress.

• Social connectedness: Social media fosters a sense of belonging and community participation, especially during crises.

• Behavioral modeling: Influencers and campaigns (e.g., Swachh Bharat, Beti Bachao) shape pro-social behaviors.

Program for college students: “Media4Values” Initiative

1. Weekly value-based screenings: Documentaries or short films followed by group discussion on themes like empathy, resilience, or integrity.

2. Digital literacy workshops: Educate students on identifying fake news, online safety, and responsible social media use.

3. Peer storytelling platform: Encourage students to share personal stories of positivity, kindness, or overcoming adversity.

4. Mentorship through media: Online sessions with social entrepreneurs, journalists, and psychologists who inspire youth.

5. Campaign creation: Students design short campaigns (videos, reels) on environmental awareness, mental health, or inclusivity.

Such a program integrates psychological principles of learning, social modeling, and reinforcement, using media as a positive agent of value transmission.

Question 7

(a) What is social integration? Explain the psychological measures that can be taken to achieve the goal of social integration. (15 marks)

Ans: Social integration refers to the process by which individuals from different backgrounds—ethnic, religious, linguistic, or socio-economic—come together to form a cohesive and inclusive society. It involves the elimination of social barriers, acceptance of diversity, and promotion of equality and cooperation.

Psychological measures for achieving social integration:

• Promoting inclusive identity: Educational programs can emphasize a superordinate identity (e.g., “Indian first”), which reduces in-group/out-group biases.

• Value education and sensitization: Curriculum should include content that encourages tolerance, empathy, and pluralism from early schooling.

• Intergroup contact theory (Allport): Meaningful interactions between groups under equal status, cooperative goals, and institutional support help reduce prejudices.

• Reducing stereotypes: Cognitive restructuring techniques in media and education can help challenge rigid stereotypes and prejudicial beliefs.

• Media campaigns: Using positive media portrayals to counteract stigmatization of minorities and promote common goals (e.g., unity in diversity).

• Community-based initiatives: Programs that bring people together for collective tasks, such as environmental drives or local festivals, can foster cooperation.

In the Indian context, given the diversity and history of social stratification, psychological interventions must work alongside structural reforms. Social integration is not just a political goal but a psychological state of acceptance, shared identity, and mutual respect.

(b) How can people be motivated and trained for entrepreneurship? What specific issues would you consider while motivating and training women for entrepreneurship? Elaborate. (15 marks)

Ans: Entrepreneurship motivation involves cultivating the right mix of attitudes, skills, and confidence needed to initiate and sustain an enterprise.

Psychological strategies for entrepreneurship training:

• Self-efficacy enhancement: Using Bandura’s concept, build confidence through goal setting, mentorship, and feedback.

• Risk-taking and decision-making training: Simulation exercises can develop calculated risk behavior and analytical skills.

• Motivational workshops: Based on McClelland’s Achievement Motivation Theory, focus on developing need for achievement (n-Ach).

• Goal orientation: Training must instill intrinsic motivation, clarity of purpose, and perseverance.

Specific issues for motivating women entrepreneurs:

• Overcoming internalized stereotypes: Many women may lack confidence due to traditional gender roles; psychological support and role-modeling are critical.

• Work-life balance skills: Training must address time management and assertiveness to manage dual responsibilities.

• Safety and mobility concerns: Entrepreneurship modules should integrate safety measures and online business opportunities.

• Networking support: Facilitate women's business networks for social capital and resource sharing.

• Financial literacy: Customized training on basic finance, credit access, and managing micro-loans.

In India, government schemes like Stand Up India and Mudra Yojana must be supplemented by psychological empowerment, which involves changing mindsets and breaking socio-cultural barriers. Encouraging entrepreneurial identity, especially among women, is key for sustainable development.

(c) Discuss the psychosocial consequences of short-term and long-term exposure to noise. (20 marks)

Ans: Noise is an unwanted sound that disrupts mental peace, concentration, and physiological functioning. Exposure to noise—whether short-term or long-term—has significant psychosocial consequences, especially in urban environments.

Short-term exposure consequences:

• Irritability and stress: Sudden loud noise can trigger autonomic arousal, increasing cortisol levels.

• Cognitive impairment: Disruption in concentration, problem-solving, and memory, especially in learning environments.

• Sleep disturbances: Short-term night-time noise affects sleep quality and alertness the next day.

• Aggressive behavior: Urban studies show increased hostility and aggression in high-noise traffic areas.

Long-term exposure consequences:

• Chronic stress and anxiety: Persistent exposure leads to learned helplessness, irritability, and mood disorders.

• Hearing impairment: Industrial noise or high-decibel exposure causes temporary or permanent hearing loss.

• Academic and workplace underperformance: Studies (e.g., WHO 2011 Report) show children in noisy schools underperform due to impaired language and cognitive skills.

• Cardiovascular issues: Long-term exposure increases risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke due to sustained physiological arousal.

• Social withdrawal: Noise-induced irritability may lead to avoidance behavior and alienation in communities.

Psychosocial interventions:

• Noise regulation laws: Enforce silence zones near hospitals and schools.

• Urban design changes: Use of green buffers and noise barriers.

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for individuals with noise-induced anxiety.

• Mindfulness training and relaxation techniques to reduce psychological reactivity.

Given India's rapid urbanization, noise pollution must be addressed not only as an environmental issue but as a public mental health concern. Understanding its psychological consequences is key to designing effective mitigation strategies.

Question 8

(a) Discuss the role of media in the present scenario of antisocial behaviour? Considering Indian context in view, suggest some measures to regulate media. (15 marks)

Ans: Media plays a dual role in shaping societal attitudes. While it informs and educates, it also contributes to the rise in antisocial behaviour through the content it promotes.

Role of media in promoting antisocial behaviour:

• Glorification of violence: Constant exposure to violent content in news, cinema, and web series can lead to desensitization and imitation.

• Sensationalism and hate speech: Polarized and biased reporting increases intergroup hostility, especially in the communal and political sphere.

• Cyberbullying and trolling: Social media anonymity has increased online harassment, damaging mental health.

• Addiction and impulsivity: Excessive use of digital media is linked to low attention span, impulsive behaviour, and lack of empathy.

In Indian context, additional concerns include:

• Fake news propagation, especially during elections or communal tension.

• Objectification and gender bias in entertainment, reinforcing sexist attitudes.

• Lack of media literacy, particularly in rural and semi-urban populations.

Suggested measures for regulation:

• Media literacy campaigns to help people critically evaluate content.

• Strengthening self-regulation bodies like News Broadcasting Standards Authority (NBSA).

• Algorithm transparency and fact-checking protocols for social media platforms.

• Mental health sensitization for content creators and journalists.

• School-level interventions to teach responsible media consumption.

While media can be a powerful tool for prosocial change, unchecked usage contributes significantly to antisocial tendencies. Regulation must balance freedom of expression with social responsibility.

(b) What do you mean by positive health of defence personnel? How can psychologists be trained to work with defence personnel in promoting positive health? (15 marks)

Ans: Positive health in defence personnel goes beyond the absence of illness. It involves optimal psychological, emotional, and social functioning under high-stress, high-risk environments.

Key components of positive health in defence personnel:

• Resilience: The ability to adapt to adversity and recover from trauma.

• Stress management: Coping with continuous exposure to combat stress, separation from family, and unpredictability.

• Emotional regulation: Preventing disorders like PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

• Social cohesion: Strong unit bonding and support systems.

Psychologists need specialized training to support positive health in this population. This includes:

• Military psychology orientation: Understanding the unique occupational hazards, ethos, and hierarchy of armed forces.

• Trauma-informed therapy: Training in CBT, EMDR, and exposure therapy for managing PTSD and combat stress.

• Psycho-educational programs: Conducting sessions on anger management, mindfulness, and positive coping strategies.

• Pre-deployment and post-deployment counselling: Facilitating transition to and from war zones or extreme terrains.

• Suicide prevention programs: Identifying early signs of mental breakdown and risk behaviour.

In the Indian context, collaboration with Armed Forces Medical Services and setting up more military counselling units can help. Psychologists must also be trained in multilingual communication and cultural sensitivity, considering India's diverse defence forces.

A proactive and preventive approach by trained psychologists is critical to ensuring positive mental health and operational efficiency of defence personnel.

(c) Explain the interrelation between achievement motivation and entrepreneurial behaviour? Discuss the role of child-rearing practices in the development of achievement motivation and entrepreneurial behaviour. (20 marks)

Ans: Achievement motivation refers to an individual’s drive to excel, achieve in relation to a set of standards, and strive for success. Entrepreneurial behaviour is often rooted in a high need for achievement (n-Ach), as proposed by David McClelland.

Interrelation between achievement motivation and entrepreneurship:

• Goal-oriented mindset: Individuals with high achievement motivation set challenging yet attainable goals, a key trait in successful entrepreneurs.

• Persistence: They display grit and resilience even when faced with failures—common in entrepreneurial ventures.

• Internal locus of control: High achievers believe in personal agency, driving innovation and risk-taking.

• Desire for feedback: Entrepreneurs motivated by achievement seek performance feedback, learning from failures to improve.

Role of child-rearing practices:

• Encouragement of independence: When parents allow autonomy and risk-taking, children develop confidence and initiative.

• Setting performance standards: Structured expectations foster goal-setting habits early on.

• Use of achievement reinforcement: Positive reinforcement for effort and success, rather than punishment for failure, encourages intrinsic motivation.

• Modeling behaviour: Entrepreneurial or high-achieving parents often become role models, influencing the child’s self-concept.

• Cultural narratives: In Indian families, academic success is often equated with achievement, sometimes stifling entrepreneurial aspirations unless parents are open to diverse success models.

In McClelland’s Kakinada experiment in India, participants trained in achievement motivation showed higher entrepreneurial success, highlighting the malleability of motivation through environmental conditioning.

Thus, nurturing achievement motivation from early childhood through supportive parenting and educational environments is crucial in shaping future entrepreneurs who can contribute meaningfully to society and economy.