Psych/Soc on the MCAT: Must-Know Theories & Terms for a Higher Score
If you're preparing for the DAT, you’ve likely hit a wall at least once trying to balance chemical equations or convert between moles and grams. Stoichiometry isn’t just a fundamental chemistry concept—it’s a must-know for test day.
Today, I’m going to break it down and show you how to master stoichiometry for the DAT, using proven strategies and one of King of the Curve’s signature visuals to help you learn fast and retain even faster.
Why Psych/Soc Deserves Your Attention
Sure, it’s last on the test, but Psych/Soc is anything but easy. The AAMC loves to test:
Complex theories from sociology and psychology
Experimental design and research methods
Real-world application of vocabulary
The best part? Much of it is memorization-based—and King of the Curve’s visual mnemonics can help lock it in for good.
🧠 KOTC Science Visual: Major Theories of Sociology
Alt text: Infographic comparing functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism, and social constructionism with definitions and real-life examples.
🎓 Access 1,000+ visuals like this one at mcat.kingofthecurve.org — built to help you master high-yield MCAT content fast.
Must-Know Psychological Theories
🧪 Behaviorism (Skinner, Pavlov)
Learning through conditioning
Expect to see classical vs. operant conditioning comparisons
🧠 Piaget’s Cognitive Development
Four stages: Sensorimotor → Preoperational → Concrete → Formal
Often tested with child behavior scenarios
💡 Erikson’s Psychosocial Stages
Crisis-based development (e.g., “Identity vs. Role Confusion” in teens)
Watch for key ages and conflicts in questions
🏆 Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Pyramid structure: physiological → self-actualization
Commonly tested in health, motivation, and education contexts
Must-Know Sociological Theories
🏛 Functionalism
Society as a system of parts working together
MCAT examples: healthcare systems, family roles
⚔️ Conflict Theory (Marx)
Power struggles between groups (e.g., class, race)
Expect inequality- or discrimination-based passages
🗣 Symbolic Interactionism
Meaning through interaction (e.g., language, gestures)
Think micro-level interactions
🧱 Social Constructionism
Reality is shaped through social processes
Includes concepts like gender roles, money, norms
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Groupthink | Desire for harmony overrides realistic decisions |
| Confirmation Bias | Favoring info that supports existing beliefs |
| Stereotype Threat | Fear of confirming negative group stereotype |
| Social Facilitation | Improved performance in presence of others |
| Fundamental Attribution Error | Overemphasizing personal traits in others’ behavior |
How This Section Shows Up on the MCAT
Disguised Vocabulary: Questions rarely ask for straight definitions—they’ll wrap concepts in real-world experimental data or behavior scenarios.
Passage + Figures: You’ll often see a psychological study, graph, or experiment design—know how to interpret them.
Stats + Research Methods: Don’t forget Chi-square, p-values, independent/dependent variables—KOTC’s Adaptive Q-Bank includes hundreds of questions on this.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Aim for 4-6 focused hours, ensuring you incorporate breaks to avoid burnout.
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Practice mindfulness techniques, take practice exams under realistic conditions, and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
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Set short-term goals, seek support from mentors, and reward yourself for small achievements.
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Regular exercise improves focus, reduces stress, and enhances overall mental clarity.
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KOTC offers personalized learning tools, gamification features, and adaptive question banks to help students stay on track without burnout.
