Psych Unit 0 + AAQ

A. Research Methods

• experiment

• correlational study

• longitudinal study (not on AP)

• case study

• survey

• Cross-sectional study

• meta-analyisis

• naturalistic observation

Experiment

A method when the researcher manipulates one or more independent variables to observe their effect on the dependent variable, while controlling for confounding variables, and establish a cause and effect relationship.

Case Study

A method in which a researcher examines one individual or a small group that posses a unique trait they want to study in depth.

Longitudinal Study

The method in which researchers follows a sample group over an extended period of time (months, years, or decades) to observe developmental changes.

Issues with longitudinal studies

• costly

• take a long time

• subject mortality/changing their mind

Cross-sectional study

A method where researchers observe a representative sample of a cohort group at a single point in time.

Correlational Study

A method that measures two or more naturally occurring variables to determine the strength and direction of their relationship, without interfering.

This method allows researchers to make accurate predictions about how two variables relate to one another , especially in cases where IV is unethical to, or can't be controlled.

Survey

A method involving self reported responses/data from participants.

Pros and cons of surveys

Pros: inexpensive, quick, easily accessible

Cons: Vulnerable to dishonesty/response bias, can be hard to get representative sample.

Naturalistic observation

When researchers unobtrusively monitor participants in their natural setting to observe what people say they do, vs what they actually do. Does not require informed consent. Must have clear OD.

meta-analysis

The method in which researchs study the results of numerous, previously conducted, studies on the same topic to form a conclusion of the relationship between variables.

Operational Definition

a precise, measurable description of how a researcher handles, measures, or manipulates a variable in a study.

Hypothesis

A hypothesis is a testable prediction about the effect an independent variable will have on a dependent variable.

Generalizability

Generalizability is the extent to which a studies findings from a tested sample can be applied to a broader population.

Informed consent

The requirement that prior to the study, participants must be informed of the nature, purpose, and potential risks of a study, and then willingly sign a formal consent form.

In the case that a participant is under 18, consent must be given by a parent or gaurdian.

Confidentiality

Researchers may not publish any identifying information about a participant without permission from the participant.

Protection from harm or stress

A study must not cause undue harm or stress to its participants, including physical, emotional, and mental harm.

Right to withdraw

Participants must be informed of, and maintain, the right to end participation in the study at any time for any reason without consequence. This must be reiterated to participants expressing signs of discomfort.

Minimum of Deception

Researchers have an obligation to avoid deceiving participants unless there is a strong demonstrated scientific or medical justification to prove there is no other way.

Debriefing

After the study is over, participants have a right to a full disclosure of the nature of the research, including the findings.

Especially important when deception is involved.

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