SCHIZOPHRENIA (PAPER 3 7182/3) 2025 PREDICTIONS
Predicted Exam Questions for the Schizophrenia 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 Schizophrenia exam. Below are the most likely questions, expected mark allocations, and study strategies based on this new data.
Key Trends & Predictions for 2025
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Classification of Schizophrenia has been tested frequently in small-mark questions (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023, 2024) but has never been a 16-mark question. It could feature as an 8-12 mark discussion in 2025.
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Biological Explanations for Schizophrenia has appeared multiple times (2018, 2020, 2023) as a 16-mark question. Since it did not appear in 2024, it may return as a shorter 6-8 mark question in 2025.
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Psychological Explanations for Schizophrenia was last tested as a 16-mark question in 2023 and was previously tested in 2020 (16 marks), 2021 (6 marks), and 2022 (6 marks). A smaller 8-12 mark question is likely in 2025.
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Drug Therapy was tested as an 8-mark question in 2017 and a 3-mark question in 2024. Given its limited presence, it may return as a 6-8 mark question.
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) & Family Therapy was last tested in 2024 as a 16-mark essay on Family Dysfunction and in 2021 as a 16-mark question. Since it has been tested frequently, it may appear as an 8-12 mark discussion in 2025.
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The Interactionist Approach to Schizophrenia was tested as a 16-mark question in 2019 and 1 mark in 2021. It is due for a major return in 2025 as a 16-mark question.
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Research Methods has been tested as small-mark questions (2018, 2023, 2024). A 4-6 mark question is expected in 2025.
Predicted 2025 Exam Questions & Marks
| Predicted Topic | Likely Mark Allocation | Reason for Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| The Interactionist Approach to Schizophrenia | 16 Marks | Last appeared as a 16-mark question in 2019, due for a return |
| Classification of Schizophrenia | 8-12 Marks | Frequently tested in small-mark questions, could be a major essay question in 2025 |
| CBT & Family Therapy for Schizophrenia | 8-12 Marks | Last tested as a 16-mark essay in 2024, may return in a smaller format |
| Psychological Explanations for Schizophrenia | 8-12 Marks | Previously a 16-mark question in 2023, likely to return in a mid-range essay |
| Biological Explanations for Schizophrenia | 6-8 Marks | Appeared as a 16-mark question in 2023, may return as a smaller question |
| Drug Therapy | 6-8 Marks | Frequently tested in small-mark questions, likely to reappear in 2025 |
| 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 theories and treatments for schizophrenia.
- Use flashcards and comparison tables to revise explanations.
2. Perfect AO3 Evaluation Using PBW
- Point: One limitation of the biological explanation of schizophrenia is that it ignores psychological factors.
- Because: Studies show that childhood trauma and dysfunctional family environments increase schizophrenia risk.
- Why: This suggests that a purely biological approach is reductionist and does not fully explain schizophrenia.
3. Practice 16-Mark Essays
- Focus on: Interactionist Approach and Classification of Schizophrenia.
- Use structured AO1 and AO3 evaluation to develop balanced essays.
4. Compare Key Explanations
- Revise biological vs. psychological vs. interactionist explanations.
- Be prepared for comparison-based questions.
5. Revise Research Methods & Ethics
- Expect a small question on how research methods relate to schizophrenia research.
- Revise ethical issues in schizophrenia research (e.g., informed consent, use of drug therapy).
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!