Unit 2 Terms- Honors Psych

Scientific Method

A method of procedure for testing scientific questions and theories.

Replication

The ability to reproduce results following the same procedures.

Confirmation Bias

The tendency to interpret only evidence that supports our beliefs while ignoring evidence that contradicts it.

Hindsight Bias

The tendency to believe something was inevitable after seeing it occur.

Overconfidence

The tendency to believe that we are correct.

Volunteer Bias

Occurs because surveys can only evaluate people who choose to take it.

Naturalistic Observation

Observing behavior in natural environments without control or interaction.

Surveys

Determine the self-reported attitudes, opinions, or behaviors of a population by questioning a sample of people.

Target Population

The group of people who your study will apply to.

Random Sample

A totally random sample of people who take the survey; everyone has an equal chance of being chosen.

Stratified Sample

The sample of people is chosen strategically to match the demographic breakdown of the population.

Generalization

When you can accurately apply the results from your sample to your target population.

Dependent Variable

Factor that is measured based on the change made to the independent variable.

Independent Variable

Factor that is manipulated to test its effect.

Confounding Variable

Any variable other than the independent variable that could affect the outcome of the experiment.

Experimental Group

Group exposed to the independent variable.

Control Group

Group receiving no treatment or independent variable; used as a comparison.

Experimenter Bias

The tendency of a researcher to treat experimental and control groups differently to confirm their hypothesis.

Placebo Effect

When a 'fake' substance delivers a real, measurable result.

Single Blind Study

Participants are unaware if they are in the experimental or control group.

Double Blind Study

Participants and experimenters are unaware of who is in the experimental or control group.

Ethical Guidelines

Principles including informed consent, limited deception, protection from harm and discomfort, confidentiality, and debriefing.

Informed Consent

Subjects must have knowledge of the experiment and sign a waiver to give their consent.

Limited Deception

Deception is only permitted when it is necessary for the outcome and must be limited to avoid harm.

Protection from Harm and Discomfort

Limiting harm and risk to participants.

Confidentiality

Participant personal information is kept private.

Debriefing

Researchers must reveal all relevant information about the experiment.