FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY (PAPER 3 7182/3) 2025 PREDICTIONS
Predicted Exam Questions for the Forensic Psychology Topic in AQA A-Level Psychology (2025)
After analysing past AQA A-Level Psychology exams (2017-2024) using the updated dataset, we can identify key patterns and trends for the 2025 Forensic Psychology exam. Below are the most likely questions, expected mark allocations, and study strategies based on this new data.
Key Trends & Predictions for 2025
-
Offender Profiling was a 16-mark question in 2021, 8 marks in 2022, and 4 marks in 2023. Since it was not tested in 2024, it could return as an 8-12 mark question.
-
Biological Explanations of Offending Behaviour was tested as a 6-mark question in 2018 and 8 marks in 2019 but has never been tested as a 16-mark question, making it a strong candidate for a major essay in 2025.
-
Psychological Explanations of Offending Behaviour was a 16-mark question in 2017 and 2022, and 12 marks in 2023. Since it was last tested as a 3-mark question in 2024, it is likely to return as an 8-12 mark question.
-
Dealing with Offending Behaviour has appeared as a 16-mark question in 2018 and 2024, as well as 10 marks in 2019 and 7 marks in 2020. Since it was tested in 2024 as a major question, it may return as a 6-8 mark question.
-
Research Methods has appeared as small-mark questions (2017, 2019, 2023, 2024). Expect a 4-6 mark question in 2025.
Predicted 2025 Exam Questions & Marks
| Predicted Topic | Likely Mark Allocation | Reason for Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| Biological Explanations of Offending Behaviour | 16 Marks | Has never been tested as a 16-mark question before, making it highly likely |
| Offender Profiling | 8-12 Marks | Previously tested in small-mark questions, due for a mid-range essay |
| Psychological Explanations of Offending Behaviour | 8-12 Marks | Previously a 16-mark question, may return in a smaller format |
| Dealing with Offending Behaviour | 6-8 Marks | Was a 16-mark question in 2024, likely to return in a smaller format |
| Research Methods | 4-6 Marks | Frequently tested in small-mark questions, likely to reappear in 2025 |
Recommended Study Focus
1. Master AO1 Knowledge
- Learn key explanations of offending behaviour, including biological, psychological, and social influences.
- Use flashcards and comparison tables to revise different theories.
2. Perfect AO3 Evaluation Using PBW
- Point: One limitation of the biological explanation of offending behaviour is its reductionist nature.
- Because: It ignores social and environmental influences, such as upbringing and peer pressure.
- Why: This suggests that a purely biological approach does not fully explain offending behaviour.
3. Practice 16-Mark Essays
- Focus on: Biological Explanations of Offending Behaviour.
- Use structured AO1 and AO3 evaluation to develop balanced essays.
4. Compare Key Explanations
- Revise biological vs. psychological explanations of offending.
- Be prepared for comparison-based questions.
5. Revise Research Methods & Ethics
- Expect a small question on how research methods relate to forensic psychology research.
- Revise ethical issues in forensic research (e.g., studying criminal behaviour, informed consent in profiling).
Final Thoughts
By focusing on these high-probability topics, students can maximise their exam performance and feel confident going into their 2025 AQA A-Level Psychology exam.
Good luck with your revision!