Psychology key definitions

Survey

Survey

A technique for ascertaining the self-reported attitudes or behaviors of people, usually by questioning a representative, random sample of them.

Case study

An observation technique in which one person is studied in the hope of revealing universal principles.

Hypothesis

A testable prediction, often implied by a theory.

Random Sample

A sample that fairly represents a population because each member has an equal chance of inclusion.

Overconfidence Bias

People often assume they know more than they do.

Control

The condition of an experiment that contrasts with the experimental condition and serves as a comparison for evaluating the effect of treatment.

Correlation Coefficient

A statistical measure of the extent to which two factors vary together, and thus of how well either factor predicts the other.

Independent Variable

 The experimental factor that is manipulated; the variable whose effect is being studied.

Operational Definition

A statement of procedures used to define research variables.

Replication

Repeating the essence of a research study, usually with different participants in different situations to see whether the basic finding generalizes to other participants and circumstances.

Theory

An explanation using an integrated set of principles that organizes and predicts observations.

Hindsight Bias

Finding out that something has happened makes it seem inevitable.

Double Blind Procedure

An experimental procedure in which both the research participants and the research staff are ignorant about whether the research participants have received the treatment or the placebo.

Illusory Correlation

Perception of a relationship where none exists.

Naturalistic Observation

Observing and recording behavior in naturally occurring situations without trying to manipulate of control the situation.

Dependent Variable

The behavior or mental process – that is being measured.