a statistical index of the relationship between two things (from -1.00 to +1.00)
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Random Sample
a sample that fairly represents a population because each member has an equal chance of inclusion
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Dependent Variable
In an experiment, the outcome that is measured; the variable that may change when the independent variable is manipulated
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Double-Blind Procedure Experiment
an experimental procedure in which both the research participants and the research staff are ignorant (blind) about whether the research participants have received the treatment or a placebo. Commonly used in drug-evaluation studies
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Introspection
the process of looking inward in an attempt to directly observe one's own psychological processes
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Naturalistic Observation
a descriptive technique of observing and recording behavior in naturally occurring situations without trying to manipulate or control the situation
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Independent Variable
in an experiment, the factor that is manipulated; the variable whose effect is being studied
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Range
the difference between the highest and lowest scores in a distribution
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Descriptive Statistics
numerical data used to measure and describe characteristics of groups; includes measures of central tendency and measures of variation
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Illusory Correlation
perceiving a relationship where non exists, or perceiving a stronger-than-actual relationship
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Inferential Statistics
numerical data that allow one to generalize- to infer from sample data the probability of something being true of a population
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Mean
the arithmetic average of a distribution, obtained by adding the scores and then dividing by the number of scores
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Normal Curve
(normal distribution) a symmetrical, bell-shaped curve that describes the distribution of many types of data; most scores fall near the mean (about 68 percent fall within one standard deviation of it) and fewer near the extremes
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Operational Definitions
a carefully worded statement of the exact procedures (operations) used in research study. For example, human intelligence may be operationally defined as what an intelligence test measures
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Random Assignment
assigning participants by experimental and control groups by chance, thus minimizing preexisting differences between the different groups
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Psychology
the science of behavior and mental processes
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Confounding Variable
a factor other than the factor being studied that might influence a study's results
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Placebo Effect
experimental results caused by expectations alone; any effect on behavior caused by the administration of an inert substance or condition, which the recipient assumes is an active agent
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Case Study
a descriptive technique in which one individual or group is studied in depth in hopes of revealing universal principles
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Experimental Group
in an experiment, the group exposed to the treatment, that is, to one version of the independent variable
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Median
the middle score in a distribution, obtained by adding the scores and then dividing by the number of scores
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Mode
the most frequently occurring score(s) in a distribution
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Population
all those in a group being studied, from which samples may be drawn (Note: except for national studies, this does not refer to a country's whole population)