CSS Past Paper 2017 Psychology Descriptive (Part 2)
CSS | Past Paper | Group 7 | 2017 | Part 2 | Descriptive
Below is the solution to PART-II (COMPULSORY) of the CSS Past Paper 2017 Psychology Descriptive (Part 2).
Question 2
Define Personality. Discuss few major theories of personality in detail.
Introduction
Personality is what makes a person unique. It includes the way we think, feel, behave, and interact with others. Some people are shy, others are bold. Some are friendly, others are quiet. All these differences are part of personality.
Definition of Personality
According to Gordon Allport,
“Personality is the dynamic organization within the individual of those psychophysical systems that determine his unique adjustment to his environment”.
In simple words, personality is the total of our habits, thoughts, emotions, and behaviours that make us who we are.
Major Theories of Personality
1. Psychoanalytic Theory – Sigmund Freud
- Freud said personality is shaped by unconscious desires and early childhood experiences.
- He divided personality into 3 parts:
- Id → Wants pleasure (e.g. food, sex)
- Ego → Balances between Id and Superego
- Superego → Moral values, conscience
Psychosexual Stages:
- Freud also gave 5 stages of personality development:
- Oral, Anal, Phallic, Latency, Genital
- If someone gets stuck at any stage, it affects their personality.
Example: A person stuck in oral stage may become a smoker or overeater.
2. Trait Theory – Gordon Allport / Raymond Cattell / Eysenck
- Trait theories say personality is made up of traits – stable qualities like honesty or laziness.
Allport’s Theory:
- Cardinal traits: Very strong, define the person (e.g. Gandhi’s peace).
- Central traits: General traits (e.g. shy, smart).
- Secondary traits: Seen only in some situations.
Cattell’s 16 PF:
- Identified 16 personality factors using statistics (factor analysis).
Eysenck’s 3 Dimensions:
- Introversion vs. Extraversion
- Neuroticism vs. Stability
- Psychoticism
3. Humanistic Theory – Carl Rogers & Abraham Maslow
- This theory focuses on free will, self-growth, and personal potential.
Carl Rogers:
- Said people need unconditional positive regard to grow.
- Introduced concept of “self” vs. “ideal self”.
- Congruence between them leads to healthy personality.
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs:
- At the top is self-actualization – reaching full potential.
4. Social-Cognitive Theory – Albert Bandura
- Personality is shaped by interaction between person, behaviour, and environment.
- Gave concept of reciprocal determinism.
- Believed in observational learning – we learn by watching others.
- Introduced self-efficacy – belief in one’s own ability.
5. Type Theories (Ancient but Popular)
- Hippocrates: 4 temperaments (Sanguine, Choleric, Melancholic, Phlegmatic)
- Carl Jung: Introvert and Extrovert types
- MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator): Based on Jung’s work, gives 16 personality types.
Conclusion
Personality is a complex but important part of psychology. Different theories explain it in different ways – some focus on traits, some on thoughts, and others on unconscious mind. Understanding personality helps us in education, career, relationships, and mental health. Each theory gives us a new lens to understand human nature better.
Question 3
Differentiate between fine sensation and perception. Elaborate Gestalt Principles of perception.
Difference between Fine Sensation and Perception
Sensation and perception are closely related but are two different processes in psychology.
| Point | Sensation | Perception |
| Definition | It is the process of receiving stimuli from environment through sense organs. | It is the process of interpreting and giving meaning to the sensations. |
| Nature | Biological and passive process. | Psychological and active process. |
| Function | Just detects the physical energy (light, sound, etc.) | Organizes and interprets sensory information. |
| Example | Eye sees light of different wavelengths. | Brain interprets it as color red or blue. |
| Timing | Comes first. | Comes after sensation. |
In simple words, sensation is what we sense, and perception is how we understand it.
Gestalt Principles of Perception
Gestalt psychology came from Germany. Gestalt means “whole”. This theory says that we see things as whole first, not in parts. Our mind organizes information in a structured and meaningful way.
Gestalt psychologists like Max Wertheimer, Kurt Koffka, and Wolfgang Köhler gave principles that explain how our brain organizes information.
Here are the main Gestalt Principles:
a) Law of Figure and Ground
We separate objects (figure) from their background (ground).
Example: While reading a book, the black letters are figure and the white page is the ground.
b) Law of Similarity
Objects that look similar are grouped together.
Example: In a football match, we group players by their shirt color.
c) Law of Proximity
Objects that are close to each other are seen as a group.
Example: Dots placed near each other are seen as one group even if they are not connected.
d) Law of Continuity
We prefer to see smooth, continuous patterns instead of broken or disconnected ones.
Example: A line or curve is seen as continuing in its path, not as separate points.
e) Law of Closure
Our mind fills in the missing parts to make a complete image.
Example: A circle drawn with gaps is still seen as a complete circle by our brain.
f) Law of Symmetry
Symmetrical images are perceived as belonging together.
Example: Two mirror-image shapes are seen as a whole.
g) Law of Common Fate
Things moving in the same direction are seen as part of one group.
Like birds flying in the same direction are a flock.
Conclusion
The reason sensation and perception is valuable in psychology is to not only learn how we experience the world, but how this experience happens. Sensation gives the raw data from our senses, while perception gives it meaning. The Gestalt laws of perceptual organization show that our brains do not accept information and dump it into a storehouse, but that they classify it and organize it in useful ways. These principles find application in design, education and sales.
Question 4
What is reliability of psychological tests? Elaborate different types of reliability for test with suitable examples.
Definition of Reliability
Test reliability is the consistency and stability of the test. If the same psychological test yields the same results when given under the same conditions, it is said to be reliable.
In other words:
A reliable test yields the same kind of results when repeated. If your score on an IQ test is 110 today, and 110 or in the neighborhood of it next week, it indicates the test is reliable.
Example:
A weight machine giving same reading every time you weigh yourself (if nothing changes) – that’s reliability.
Importance of Reliability
- Helps to trust test results.
- Used in education, clinical diagnosis, job testing, etc.
- Without reliability, a test is useless even if it looks good.
Types of Reliability
There are many types of reliability. Each one checks the test’s consistency in different ways.
a) Test-Retest Reliability
- This checks if the test gives same results over time.
- The same test is given to the same people after some time gap.
- The scores are then compared.
Example:
A student takes a personality test today and again after 2 weeks. If scores are similar, the test has high test-retest reliability.
Problem:
People may remember answers or change their mood.
b) Inter-Rater Reliability
- This is used when more than one person (raters) is scoring or observing.
- If all raters give similar scores, then the test has high inter-rater reliability.
Example:
Two psychologists observe a child’s behavior. If both agree on the results, the test is reliable.
c) Parallel Forms Reliability (Alternate Form)
- Two different versions of the same test are made (with similar difficulty).
- Given to same people.
- Scores are compared to check consistency.
Example:
Form A and Form B of a math ability test are given to students. If scores match, it shows reliability.
Problem:
It is hard to make two exactly equal tests.
d) Internal Consistency Reliability
- Checks if all items in the test are measuring the same thing.
- Most common method is Cronbach’s Alpha.
Example:
If a depression test has 10 questions, all should relate to depression. If some are unrelated, the test is not consistent.
Summary Table
| Type of Reliability | What It Checks | Example |
| Test-Retest | Same results over time | Personality test now & after 2 weeks |
| Inter-Rater | Agreement between different scorers | Two doctors rating behavior |
| Parallel Forms | Two forms of same test give same results | IQ Test Form A & Form B |
| Internal Consistency | All questions measure same idea | Depression questionnaire |
Factors That Affect Reliability
- Mood or health of test taker
- Environment or noise
- Poorly written questions
- Time between test and retest
Conclusion
Reliability is a basic requirement for any psychological test. A test that is not reliable cannot be trusted. There are different ways to measure reliability like test-retest, inter-rater, parallel forms, and internal consistency. Every method helps to make sure that psychological results are correct and meaningful.
Question 5
Differentiate between intelligence (IQ) and emotional intelligence (EQ). Also discuss major theories of emotional intelligence with suitable examples.
Introduction
Intelligence helps a person to think, solve problems and learn. But emotional intelligence helps a person to understand emotions, control them and behave in a smart way in social life.
In today’s world, both IQ and EQ are important for success, especially in jobs, leadership, and relationships.
Difference Between IQ and EQ
| Point | Intelligence (IQ) | Emotional Intelligence (EQ) |
| Meaning | Ability to think logically and solve problems | Ability to understand and manage emotions |
| Focus | Mind (logical thinking, memory, reasoning) | Emotions (self-awareness, empathy, control) |
| Tested By | Intelligence tests like Stanford-Binet, WAIS | Emotional intelligence tests (e.g. EQ-i) |
| Developed In | Early childhood mostly | Can be developed throughout life |
| Example | Solving math problems quickly | Staying calm in arguments, comforting others |
Theories of Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence can be explained by many different models of psychology. The most famous are:
A) Daniel Goleman’s Model (1995)
Goleman popularized the term EQ in the world. He said that emotional intelligence consists of five essential parts.
- Self-Awareness:
- Knowing your own emotions.
- Example: Realizing you are getting angry before you react.
- Self-Regulation:
- Controlling your emotions and impulses.
- Example: Staying calm instead of shouting back in a fight.
- Motivation:
- Inner drive to achieve goals.
- Example: Studying hard even when you feel lazy.
- Empathy:
- Understanding others’ feelings.
- Example: Noticing your friend is upset even when they don’t say it.
- Social Skills:
- Managing relationships well.
- Example: Working in teams, resolving conflicts peacefully.
Why it matters:
According to Goleman, EQ is more important than IQ in leadership, teamwork and dealing with stress.
B) Mayer-Salovey Model (1997)
Mayer and Salovey were the first to use the term “emotional intelligence”.
They explained EQ in 4 branches:
- Perceiving Emotions:
- Recognizing emotions in self and others.
- Example: Seeing someone’s facial expression and knowing they are sad.
- Using Emotions to Think:
- Using emotions to help in thinking and solving problems.
- Example: Feeling excited and using that energy to do better work.
- Understanding Emotions:
- Knowing how emotions change and connect.
- Example: Realizing anger can come from hurt feelings.
- Managing Emotions:
- Handling emotions in a healthy way.
- Example: Controlling fear before giving a public speech.
C) Bar-On Model of EQ (1997)
Bar-On developed another major model of Emotional Intelligence focusing on emotional and social functioning.
He focused on:
- Intrapersonal Skills (like self-regard, emotional self-awareness)
- Interpersonal Skills (like empathy, social responsibility)
- Stress Management
- Adaptability
- General Mood
He also made EQ-i test to measure emotional intelligence.
Importance of Emotional Intelligence
- Better relationships
- Good leadership
- Less stress and anxiety
- Better decisions under pressure
- More success in workplace
Conclusion
While IQ is necessary for academic and technical success, EQ is necessary for effective emotional balance, socialized interpersonal relationships, and successful leadership. The world today demands both IQ and EQ. The theories of Goleman, Mayer-Salovey, and Bar-On assist us in becoming aware of the far-reaching possibilities of enhancing emotional intelligence and living a better life.
Question 6
Define psychological disorders and its major categories. Discuss major therapeutic techniques used by the clinical psychologists for the treatment of psychological disorders.
Definition of Psychological Disorders
Psychological disorders are also called mental illnesses. These are patterns of abnormal thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that cause distress and problems in daily life.
According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA):
“Mental disorder is a syndrome that involves disturbance in thinking, emotion, or behavior”.
These disorders affect how a person thinks, feels, and interacts with others.
Major Categories of Psychological Disorders
Here are some major types of mental disorders (as per DSM-5 classification):
A) Anxiety Disorders
- Person feels extreme fear or worry.
- Types:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Panic Disorder
- Phobias (fear of specific things like height, spiders)
Example: A person afraid of elevators avoids tall buildings.
B) Mood Disorders
- Related to disturbances in mood.
- Types:
- Depression – sadness, hopelessness, low energy
- Bipolar Disorder – mood swings between depression and mania
Example: A person stays in bed for days, loses interest in everything (depression).
C) Psychotic Disorders
- Person loses contact with reality.
- Main disorder: Schizophrenia
- Symptoms: Hallucinations (seeing things), Delusions (false beliefs), Disorganized speech.
D) Personality Disorders
- Long-term patterns of unhealthy behavior and thoughts.
- Examples:
- Borderline Personality Disorder
- Antisocial Personality Disorder
E) Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders (OCD)
- Obsessions = unwanted thoughts
- Compulsions = repetitive actions to reduce anxiety
Example: Washing hands again and again due to fear of germs.
F) Trauma and Stressor-Related Disorders
- Caused by traumatic events.
- Main example: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Example: A soldier having nightmares and flashbacks after war.
Therapeutic Techniques Used by Clinical Psychologists
Clinical psychologists use different methods to treat mental disorders. These methods depend on the type and severity of disorder.
A) Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Most popular therapy.
- Helps patients change negative thoughts into positive ones.
- Example: A depressed person learns to stop thinking “I’m worthless”.
- Behavior Therapy
- Focus on changing unwanted behaviors.
- Example: Using exposure therapy to reduce phobia of heights.
- Psychoanalysis (Freud)
- Focus on unconscious mind and childhood experiences.
- Long-term therapy.
- Techniques: Free association, dream analysis.
- Humanistic Therapy (Carl Rogers)
- Focus on self-growth and self-acceptance.
- Therapist shows unconditional positive regard and empathy.
B) Group Therapy
- Therapy with multiple patients together.
- Helps in sharing experiences, building support.
C) Family or Couples Therapy
- Focuses on improving relationships.
- Used when family problems or marital conflicts affect mental health.
D) Biomedical Therapy
- Sometimes clinical psychologists work with psychiatrists.
- Use of medicines like:
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety drugs
- Antipsychotics
Note: Only psychiatrists (medical doctors) can prescribe medication, not psychologists.
Conclusion
Psychological disorders are serious but treatable. There are many types, such as anxiety, depression, OCD, etc. Clinical psychologists use therapies like CBT, psychoanalysis, and group therapy to help patients recover. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can improve a person’s life greatly.
Question 7
What are different leadership styles with reference to major leadership style theories? Elaborate the characteristics of transformational and transactional leaders with appropriate examples.
What is Leadership?
Leadership means guiding or influencing others to achieve goals. A good leader motivates, supports, and directs people in the right direction.
Different leaders use different styles depending on their personality, situation, and followers.
Major Leadership Styles (with Theories)
Several psychologists and researchers have given theories to explain leadership styles. Here are the most important ones:
A) Kurt Lewin’s Leadership Styles (1939)
- Authoritarian (Autocratic) Leader
- Leader takes all decisions.
- Followers have less input.
- Works well in emergencies.
Example: Military officer giving strict orders.
- Democratic (Participative) Leader
- Leader involves team in decision-making.
- Encourages suggestions and discussions.
Example: A manager asking team ideas before starting a project.
- Laissez-Faire Leader
- Leader is passive and gives full freedom.
- Team makes its own decisions.
Example: Creative industries like art studios.
B) Transformational and Transactional Leadership Theory
(Developed by James MacGregor Burns, later expanded by Bass)
These are two opposite leadership styles mostly used in modern organizations:
Transformational Leadership
A transformational leader inspires and motivates followers to go beyond their own interests and achieve big goals.
Main Characteristics:
- Inspirational Motivation
- Creates a vision and encourages others.
- Example: A leader motivating team to work for climate change.
- Idealized Influence
- Acts as a role model. Followers respect and admire the leader.
- Individualized Consideration
- Focuses on each person’s growth and needs.
- Provides coaching and support.
- Intellectual Stimulation
- Encourages creativity and new ideas.
- Example: Asking team to find better solutions, even if risky.
Example of Transformational Leader:
Nelson Mandela – Inspired people of South Africa toward peace and equality.
Transactional Leadership
A transactional leader focuses on rules, performance, and rewards. This style is more about exchange – you do your job, you get rewarded.
Main Characteristics:
- Contingent Reward
- Rewards are given for good performance.
- Management by Exception
- Focuses on correcting mistakes.
- Intervenes only when something goes wrong.
- Clear Goals and Structure
- Tasks and expectations are clearly explained.
Example of Transactional Leader:
A sales manager who gives bonus only when sales targets are met.
Comparison: Transformational vs Transactional
| Feature | Transformational Leader | Transactional Leader |
| Focus | Vision and change | Performance and reward |
| Motivation Style | Inspiration and personal growth | Reward and punishment |
| Relationship with team | Strong, emotional connection | Formal and task-based |
| Creativity | Encourages innovation | Follows rules and systems |
Conclusion
Leadership is not one-size-fits-all. It depends on the person, team, and situation. Transformational leaders bring change, inspire others, and focus on growth. Transactional leaders keep things organized and focus on clear performance and rewards. A good leader often uses a mix of both styles depending on the goal.
Question 8
Write comprehensive notes on any TWO of the following:
a. Goals of psychotherapy
b. Test Validity and its Types
c. Development in childhood
a. Goals of Psychotherapy
What is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is also called “talk therapy”. It is a treatment method where a trained psychologist helps a person understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to deal with mental or emotional problems.
Main Goals of Psychotherapy
a) Reduce Emotional Distress
- First goal is to help the person feel better emotionally.
- Example: Reducing sadness in depression or worry in anxiety.
b) Understand the Cause of Problems
- Therapist helps client to explore their past and current life events.
- Understanding the root cause helps in long-term healing.
c) Improve Relationships
- Many mental health issues are linked to broken relationships.
- Therapy helps people improve their communication and trust.
d) Build Healthy Thinking Patterns
- Negative thinking leads to depression and anxiety.
- Therapy teaches how to think positively and realistically.
- Example: CBT changes “I’m a failure” to “I made a mistake, I can improve”.
e) Change Problematic Behaviors
- Therapists help to stop harmful habits like aggression, addiction, or fear reactions.
- Techniques like behavior therapy are used.
f) Increase Self-Awareness and Self-Esteem
- Knowing yourself better leads to more confidence.
- Therapy helps in self-acceptance and emotional growth.
g) Improve Coping Skills
- Teaches how to deal with stress, loss, trauma, or daily pressure.
- Example: Breathing exercises, journaling, mindfulness.
Conclusion
The overall goal of psychotherapy is to help the client live a healthier, happier, and more balanced life, both emotionally and socially.
b. Test Validity and its Types
What is Validity in Psychological Testing?
Validity means how accurate a test is. A test is valid if it measures what it claims to measure.
Example:
If a depression test actually measures depression (and not just stress), then it’s valid.
Types of Validity
a) Face Validity
- How much the test looks like it measures what it should.
- Very basic level.
- Example: A math test should contain math questions, not science.
b) Content Validity
- Checks if the test covers all important parts of the subject.
- Example: An IQ test should test memory, logic, problem-solving – not just vocabulary.
c) Construct Validity
- Checks if the test truly measures a psychological concept (construct).
- Example: A test for anxiety should reflect real anxiety symptoms, not just stress.
d) Criterion-Related Validity
This includes two subtypes:
- Predictive Validity
- Test predicts future performance.
- Example: SAT test predicting college success.
- Concurrent Validity
- Test results match with another trusted test taken at the same time.
- Example: A new depression test gives same results as an older, trusted one.
e) Discriminant Validity
- Checks if the test does not measure things, it’s not supposed to.
- Example: A test for anxiety should not also measure depression by mistake.
Conclusion
A psychological test must be valid to be useful. Validity ensures the test gives true and meaningful results, which is important in education, hiring, and mental health diagnosis.
c. Development in Childhood
Meaning of Childhood Development
Childhood development means the physical, emotional, social, and mental growth of a child from birth to puberty. These years are very important because the child’s brain and personality are being shaped.
Major Areas of Development
a) Physical Development
- Growth of body, muscles, height, weight.
- Development of motor skills like walking, running, holding objects.
b) Cognitive Development (Piaget’s Theory)
- Jean Piaget explained how thinking changes in stages:
- Sensorimotor (0–2 years): learning by senses and actions.
- Preoperational (2–7): imagination and language develop, but thinking is still not logical.
- Concrete Operational (7–11): logical thinking starts.
- Formal Operational (12+): abstract thinking and problem solving.
c) Emotional and Social Development (Erikson’s Theory)
- Children learn to trust, feel secure, and become independent.
- Erikson’s stages:
- Trust vs. Mistrust (0–1 year)
- Autonomy vs. Shame (1–3 years)
- Initiative vs. Guilt (3–6 years)
- Industry vs. Inferiority (6–12 years)
Each stage builds a strong personality and confidence.
d) Language Development
- Children go from crying to babbling to speaking words.
- Environment, parents, and schooling affect language growth.
e) Moral Development (Kohlberg’s Theory)
- Children move from doing right to avoid punishment → to doing right based on values.
Factors That Affect Development
- Genetics
- Family environment
- Nutrition
- Education
- Social interactions
Conclusion
Childhood is a sensitive and crucial time for development. All areas – physical, emotional, mental – must be supported by parents, teachers, and society. Good development in childhood leads to a healthy adult.
📘 Benefits of Practicing This Descriptive Paper
- ✅ These CSS Past Paper 2017 Psychology Descriptive questions are compiled from authentic FPSC CSS past papers, following the real written exam format.
- 💬 Attempting this CSS Past Paper 2017 Psychology Descriptive helps students master structured writing and analytical skills for CSS exams.
- 🧾 Every question in this CSS Past Paper 2017 Psychology Descriptive strictly follows the official CSS exam syllabus approved by FPSC.
- 📊 Students preparing for CSS 2017 can rely on this CSS Past Paper 2017 Psychology Descriptive to practice time management and topic selection.
- 🔍 The solved CSS Past Paper 2017 Psychology Descriptive contains concise explanations to improve conceptual understanding and writing clarity.
- 🎯 Regular revision of this CSS Past Paper 2017 Psychology Descriptive builds confidence and strengthens your preparation for the CSS written paper.
- 🏆 This CSS Past Paper 2017 Psychology Descriptive is essential for mastering exam techniques and achieving success in the FPSC CSS examination.
🏁 Final Note
Keep revising these CSS Past Paper 2017 Psychology Descriptive to strengthen your grip on important concepts and improve accuracy in upcoming CSS exams. Regular practice with these CSS Past Paper 2017 Psychology Descriptive will help you score higher and build full command over the CSS exam syllabus.
📰 Check out other years’ past papers of Psychology.
🔗 Check FPSC past papers directly from the official FPSC website.
