Study Notes
Hassett et al. explored the biological basis of gender differences in toy preferences by studying rhesus monkeys, challenging the idea that these preferences are solely due to socialisation. The study found that hormonal differences, such as those seen in Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), might influence toy preferences, as seen in both monkeys and humans.
- Play — voluntary activity that allows individuals to practice skills needed in adulthood.
Example: Monkeys playing with toys to develop cognitive abilities. - Sex differences and role of nature — hormonal differences like testosterone and oestrogen affecting brain development.
Example: Male monkeys preferring wheeled toys due to hormonal influences. - Socialisation and the role of nurture — learning gender roles through interactions with others.
Example: Children learning gender expectations from parents. - Hormones and toy preferences — biological factors influencing toy choices, rejecting socialisation as the sole explanation.
Example: Girls with CAH preferring masculine toys due to prenatal hormone exposure.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Play
- Sex differences and role of nature
- Socialisation and the role of nurture
- Hormones and toy preferences
Common Confusions
- Assuming toy preferences are only due to socialisation
- Overlooking the role of hormones in toy preferences
Typical Exam Questions
- What did Hassett et al. aim to investigate? To test if toy preferences are influenced by biological factors rather than socialisation.
- How does the study challenge the socialisation explanation? By showing that monkeys, with no socialisation, have similar toy preferences to humans.
- What were the main findings regarding male monkeys? Male monkeys preferred wheeled toys significantly more than females.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of the biological vs. socialisation debate
- Ability to explain the methodology and findings of the study
- Application of the study's findings to broader psychological concepts