UPSC Mains 2026 Psychology Optional Paper II questions

28 questions from the Civil Services (Main) Examination 2026. Official UPSC paper (PDF) · All Psychology Optional PYQs

1. How do psychologists explain the causes of anxiety disorder?

   10 marks

2. What is the role of citizenship behaviour towards successful organizational environments?

   10 marks

3. Who are the gifted children? Discussing the needs of gifted children, suggest the modifications required in their educational environment.

   10 marks

4. What role can social agencies play in supporting the re-integration of ex-offenders?

5. Discuss the role of prevention and rehabilitation in mental health care.

   10 marks

6. Compare and contrast Norm referenced vs criterion referenced measurement.

   15 marks

7. "Therapeutic approaches must be culturally sensitive" — Discuss with examples from indigenous therapies.

   15 marks

8. Distinguish between Transactional and Transformational Leaders. Suggest how can they contribute towards creating an effective organizational environment. Give examples.

   20 marks

9. Compare and contrast psychodynamic, behavioural and cognitive therapies. Which is more effective in modern clinical practice?

   15 marks

10. Discuss the interpersonal and intrapersonal processes in educational environment that effect the motivational level and aspirations of students.

    15 marks

11. Examine the essential qualities of a rehabilitation psychologist and discuss the best practices in primary prevention of substance abuse.

    20 marks

12. What do you understand by Individual Differences? Comment on the major methodological issues in construction of tests for assessment.

    15 marks

13. Analyse the factors that foster collective consciousness and propose a well structured community based intervention program.

    15 marks

14. How do biological, psychological and social factors influence mental disorders? Critically examine the concept of mental health and well-being.

    20 marks

15. Suggest measures to overcome social conflicts and communal tensions using psychological principles.

    10 marks

16. Examine the psychological consequences of excessive use of technology.

    10 marks

17. What drives radicalization of individuals towards extremist and terrorist behaviour?

18. How can psychological education promote sensitivity to gender diversity?

    10 marks

19. What are the key aspects of women entrepreneurship? What are the initiatives taken by the Government for promoting women entrepreneurship?

    10 marks

20. 6.(a) wees aera A aaa aT aaa Ge & Ufa a-aT =? What are the consequences of facing deprivation in early childhood?

    15 marks

21. Define social integration and discuss the major psychological barriers to achieving it in a multicultural society.

    15 marks

22. Evaluate the psychological impact of chronic exposure to noise and crowding on cognition, emotional regulation and behaviour of people.

    20 marks

23. Clarifying the conceptual model of team cohesion, enumerate the antecedent factors that shape and build team cohesion among athletes.

    15 marks

24. Critically explain the relationship between achievement motivation and economic development.

    15 marks

25. What are disadvantaged groups? Why is it important to provide support to them? Suggest some important interventions for vulnerable children.

    20 marks

26. Analyse the impact of gender based psychological construct, 'Glass ceiling', on women's participation in Indian work force.

    15 marks

27. How can consumer rights and consumer awareness impact consumer hehaviour?

28. Critically analyze the impact of television and digital media on behaviour, values and cognition.

    20 marks