Design a longitudinal study to investigate whether electro-convulsive therapy (ECT) as a treatment for depression has side effects.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Feb/Mar 2020). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [10] Marks: use generic levels of response Design a study question part (a).
2. [A] Additional: Candidates should design the study showing evidence of design features appropriate to the named method. The named method is: any appropriate method, but must be longitudinal.
3. [T] Typical features: Experiments: type, IV, DV, controls, experimental design.
4. [T] Observations: type, setting, response categories, sampling frame, number of observers.
5. [T] Questionnaires/Interviews: type, setting, example questions. Scoring/rating scale, analysis of responses.
6. [T] Typical features of research methodology: sampling technique and sample, type of data, ethics, reliability, validity, data analysis.
7. [N] N.B.: max 1-3 marks if the design is not longitudinal [generic: The design may not be appropriate to the named investigation]
8. [8] Marks: use generic levels of response 'Design a study' question part (b).
9. [N] N.B. If only methodological or psychological explanation is provided max 5 marks
10. [C] Candidates are expected to explain the reasons for the suggested design in part (a). Explanation should be both psychological and methodological.
11. [P] Psychological to include appropriate theory or research.
12. [A] Additional: candidates are expected to justify their decisions or evidence presented regarding the design made in answer to question part (a).
13. [S] Syllabus: Bipolar and related disorders: electro-convulsive therapy
14. [P] Psychological: ECT: possible side effects: 20% to 50% of the people who respond well to a course of ECT relapse within 6 months; Short-term memory loss is often reported. Many patients perceive the treatment as terrifying and shameful. Immediately after treatment the patient is often confused (and the confusion may not be temporary).
15. [N] N.B. 2 marks max if psychological knowledge is not related to answer.
16. [M] Methodological: explanation of method using general and specific features as above.