2.2 Approaches to Research AND 2.3 Analyzing Findings

What are the different research methods used by psychologists?

Case studies, naturalistic observation, surveys, archival research, and experimental research.

What is a key strength of case studies?

They provide a rich amount of detailed information about a small number of individuals.

What is a major limitation of case studies?

They often make it difficult to generalize findings to the larger population.

What is naturalistic observation?

Observing behavior in its natural setting without interference from the observer.

What is a drawback of naturalistic observation?

It can be difficult to set up and control, and might require a significant investment of time and resources.

What is the purpose of surveys in psychological research?

To gather data from larger samples of people quickly and inexpensively.

What is one weakness of survey research?

Participants may provide inaccurate self-reported data.

What is archival research?

Research using existing records or data sets to find patterns or relationships.

What is a benefit of archival research?

It is often less costly and requires less time than other research methods.

What is the difference between longitudinal and cross-sectional research?

Longitudinal research tracks the same participants over time, whereas cross-sectional research compares different age groups at one point in time.

What does a correlation coefficient indicate?

The strength and direction of the relationship between two variables.

What does it mean if two variables are positively correlated?

As one variable increases, the other variable also increases.

What is a confounding variable?

An outside influence that can affect the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

What is the placebo effect?

When participants' expectations influence their experience in an experiment.

What is the purpose of having a control group in an experiment?

To provide a baseline to compare the effects of the experimental manipulation.

What is an example of a independent variable in a study?

The type of teaching method used (e.g., technology versus traditional teaching).

What is an example of a dependent variable in a study?

The learning outcomes measured after the teaching methods are applied.

What is random assignment in experimental research?

It ensures that each participant has an equal chance of being placed in the experimental or control group.

What is observer bias?

When an observer's expectations influence the recording of observations.

What is inter-rater reliability?

The degree of agreement between different observers assessing the same phenomenon.

What is the significance of peer-reviewed journal articles?

They undergo scrutiny by experts in the field to ensure quality and validity before publication.

What does ecological validity refer to?

The extent to which research findings can be applied to real-world settings.

How can experimenter bias affect research outcomes?

The researcher's expectations may unintentionally influence how they measure or interpret results.

What does reliability refer to in research?

The consistency of a research measure across time, observers, or items.

What are three measures of central tendency?

Mode, median, and mean.

What is confirmation bias?

The tendency to search for, interpret, and remember information in a way that confirms one's preconceptions.

What can draw invalid conclusions in correlational research?

Assuming that correlation implies causation without considering other factors.

What is a double-blind study?

A study where both researchers and participants are unaware of group assignments to reduce bias.

Why is replication important in psychological research?

It helps verify the reliability and validity of research findings.

What is the replication crisis?

Concerns in scientific fields, including psychology, about the difficulty in replicating key study results.