A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

How many groups were formed in Loftus and Palmer's first experiment?

1. 3 groups

2. 5 groups

3. 9 groups

4. 15 groups

The correct answer is: 9 groups

In Loftus and Palmer's first experiment, the correct number of groups formed was indeed five. The experiment aimed to investigate how the phrasing of a question could influence a person's memory and recall of an event—in this case, a car accident. The study involved showing participants a film of a car accident and then asking them questions about what they had seen. Specifically, the researchers manipulated the wording of the critical question regarding the speed of the vehicles involved. Participants were divided into groups based on how the question was phrased, with variations such as "smashed," "collided," "bumped," "hit," and "contacted." This manipulation allowed Loftus and Palmer to measure how different wording might lead to variations in estimated speeds, providing insight into the reconstructive nature of memory. This design was crucial in demonstrating the effects of language on memory recall. Therefore, the correct answer regarding the number of formed groups is five, highlighting the methodological aspect of the experimental design in psychology research.