Psychology Chapter 2

1st step of scientific method

Observing some phenomenon

2nd step of scientific method

Formulating hypothesis and predictions

3rd step

testing through empirical research

4th

Drawing conclusions

5th

evaluating the theory

Theory

Broad set of closely related ideas

hypothesis

educated guess

Descriptive research

Describing a circumstance. Doesn’t prove what cause the occurrence but it can reveal important info.

Types of descriptive research

Naturalistic observation, case studies, surveys and interviews.

Types of experimental research

Independent and dependent variables plus quasi experimental design

experiment

a carefully monitored process where the researcher causes a change in one or more variables that are believed to influence another variable.

population

the entire group which the investigators want to get results from.

What did McAdams use to study individual’s descriptions of the most powerful positive experience in 2001.

Correlational research

Informed Consent

The participant knows what they are getting into

Confidentiality

The researcher must protect participant info

debreifing

when a participant is told of what they are getting into

deception

when a participant isn’t told the true intent of the study

What does .05 mean in the research

It is the measure of statistical significance

Ethical guidelines

rules to protect participants from emotional and physical harm

Factors that determine credibility of research

Reviewed by an expert panel, who conducted the research study, and which journal was the study published