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Referring to the example used in your answer to Question 04, briefly explain how the same behaviour might be studied using an idiographic approach to psychological investigation.

AQA

A Level

Approaches in Psychology

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Idiographic Approach to Studying Behaviour

Question 04 likely presented a scenario best investigated through a nomothetic approach, seeking general laws of behavior applicable across populations. However, the same behavior can be explored through an **idiographic** lens, focusing on the unique individual and their subjective experiences.

Example from Question 04: Let's assume Question 04 examined factors influencing attachment between mothers and infants. A nomothetic approach might involve large-scale studies to establish norms in attachment styles.

Idiographic Approach: In contrast, an idiographic approach could utilize a case study method. This would involve in-depth observation and interviews with a single mother-infant pair. The focus would be on their specific circumstances, relationship dynamics, and the development of their unique attachment bond. This approach values rich, qualitative data to understand the complexities of individual experience, rather than aiming for broad generalizations.

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