Chapter 1-6 Psychology: Introduction to Research Methods (Vocabulary)

Thirty vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from correlations, experiments, ethics, and research methods in psychology.

Correlation

A statistical measure that describes the strength and direction of the relationship between two variables.

Positive correlation

Variables move in the same direction; as one increases, the other tends to increase.

Negative correlation

Variables move in opposite directions; as one increases, the other decreases.

Zero correlation

No reliable relationship between the two variables.

Correlation coefficient (r)

A number from -1 to +1 indicating the strength and direction of a correlation.

Scatter plot

A graph that displays pairs of values for two variables to visualize their relationship.

Survey

A data collection method used to gather information from many people for correlational studies.

Naturalistic observation

Observing behavior in a natural environment without manipulation.

Archival data

Existing data sources used to study relationships without new data collection.

Regression toward the mean

Extreme scores tend to move closer to the average on subsequent measurements.

Illusory correlation

Perceiving a relationship between variables where none exists.

Causation

A cause-and-effect relationship; one variable causes a change in another.

Experiment

A study where the researcher manipulates one or more factors to observe effects on behavior or mental processes.

Independent variable

The factor manipulated by the researcher.

Dependent variable

The factor measured or observed in the study.

Control group

Participants who do not receive the manipulated variable.

Experimental group

Participants who receive the manipulated variable (e.g., medication).

Random assignment

Randomly assigning participants to groups to prevent bias in experiments.

Random sample

Randomly selecting participants from the population for a study or survey.

Single-blind study

Participants do not know whether they are in the control or experimental group.

Double-blind study

Neither participants nor researchers know who is in which group.

Placebo

An inactive substance given to create a control condition.

Placebo effect

Participants' behavior changes due to belief they received active treatment.

Hawthorne effect

Behavior changes simply because participants know they are being observed.

Barnum effect

People believe generic descriptions apply to them personally (e.g., astrology).

Qualitative research

Non-numerical data analyzed in-depth through methods like interviews and case studies.

Quantitative research

Numerical data gathered through surveys, tests, and instruments.

APA (American Psychological Association)

Professional guidelines for ethical research and practice in psychology.

IRB (Institutional Review Board)

Committee that reviews and approves research to protect participants.

Informed consent

Participants are given enough information to decide whether to participate.