Research Methods Q2

Validity

The accuracy of a diagnosis in reflecting a disorder.

Qualitative methods

Research methods involving detailed case studies and interviews.

Quantitative methods

Research methods such as experiments and statistical analysis.

Experiments

Controlled studies that manipulate variables to observe effects on diagnosis.

Case Studies

In-depth examinations of individual conditions to understand diagnostic challenges.

Naturalistic Observations

Observing real-world clinical settings without researcher interference.

Correlational Studies

Studies that examine relationships between two factors without establishing cause and effect.

Surveys and Interviews

Methods for collecting self-reported data to assess diagnostic consistency.

Meta-Analysis

A review of multiple studies to evaluate overall validity in diagnosis.

Rosenhan’s Study (1973)

A study where healthy individuals were misdiagnosed as schizophrenic after claiming to hear voices.

Research Method Used in Rosenhan’s Study

Naturalistic Observation.

Strength of Experiments

Provides high control and can establish cause and effect.

Limitations of Experiments

May lack real-world applicability due to artificial settings.

Strength of Case Studies

Provides rich, detailed insights into individual cases.

Limitations of Case Studies

Findings from case studies may not be generalizable to wider populations.

Strength of Naturalistic Observations

High real-world relevance and applicability.

Limitations of Naturalistic Observations

No control over external factors, leading to potential researcher bias.

Strength of Correlational Studies

Identifies trends in large populations.

Limitations of Correlational Studies

Cannot establish cause and effect relationships.

Strength of Surveys and Interviews

Cost-effective and can utilize large sample sizes.

Limitations of Surveys and Interviews

Can be influenced by response bias from participants.

Strength of Meta-Analysis

Provides strong evidence by combining data from multiple studies.

Limitations of Meta-Analysis

The quality of results depends on the studies included.

Use of Technology in Research

AI and machine learning can analyze large diagnostic data sets.

Importance of Cross-Cultural Research

Ensures the validity of diagnoses across different populations.

Combination of Methods

Using multiple approaches gives a more complete understanding of research topics.

Why Research on Validity Matters

It reduces misdiagnosis, improves treatment effectiveness, and refines diagnostic criteria.

Confirmation Bias in Diagnosis

When clinicians interpret normal behavior as signs of a disorder.

Ethical Concerns in Rosenhan’s Study

The study involved deception, raising ethical issues.

Strengths of Rosenhan’s Study

Exposed real-world flaws in psychiatric diagnosis.

Limitations of Rosenhan’s Study

Lacked control over hospital responses and raised ethical concerns.