PSYC2000. Chapter1

Factors other than those of interest that vary systematically with the independent variable and can potentially influence the results of an experimental study are called

confounding variables

Which research method provides the best way of assessing whether aerobic exercise causes a boost in mental alertness?

the experiment

A humanistic psychologist would be MOST inclined to study:

how families influence the personal growth of their members

The type of processing that examines assumptions, appraises the source, discerns hidden biases, evaluates evidence, and assesses conclusions is called:

critical thinking

A statement describing how you will define a research variable (e.g., dependent or independent) quantifiably is known as a(n)

operational definition

An inert substance that may be administered instead of a drug to see if it produces any of the same effects as the drug is called a

placebo

Which major force in psychology emphasized unconscious thought processes?

psychoanalytic psychology

A descriptive technique of monitoring and recording behavior in naturally occurring situations without trying to change or control the situation is called

naturalistic observation

Cognitive psychology

emphasizes the study of mental processes