Research Methods and Psychological Concepts

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts related to research methods and psychological principles.

Correlation does not indicate causation

The idea that correlation between two variables does not imply that one causes the other.

Naturalistic observation

A method of studying behaviors in their natural environment without interference.

Confounding Variable

A hidden factor that influences both variables being studied, which can create misleading interpretations of causation.

Illusory Correlations

The perception of a relationship between two variables when no such relationship exists.

Control group

The group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment or manipulation and is used for comparison.

Random Sample

A method of selecting participants so that every individual has an equal chance of being chosen, ensuring the sample represents the larger population.

Random Assignment

The process of randomly placing participants into various groups in an experiment to ensure each group is similar.

Reliability

The consistency and reproducibility of a measurement or study result.

Validity

The degree to which a test or measurement accurately measures what it is intended to measure.

Quasi Experiment

An experiment that lacks random assignment, making it difficult to determine if one variable causes changes in another.

Classical Conditioning

A learning process through which a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a meaningful stimulus and acquires the ability to elicit similar responses.

Conditioned Stimulus (CS)

A previously neutral stimulus that, after repeated association with an unconditioned stimulus, elicits a conditioned response.

Positive Reinforcement

The addition of a stimulus following a behavior that increases the likelihood of the behavior being repeated.

Negative Punishment

The removal of a stimulus following a behavior that decreases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated.

Observational Learning

A learning process that occurs through observing the behavior of others and the consequences that result.

Attachment Styles

Different patterns of attachment, such as secure or insecure, that characterize the relational dynamics between individuals, particularly seen in infants with caregivers.

Temperament Types

Innate traits that influence how a person interacts with the world, such as easy, difficult, or slow-to-warm-up.

Instinct Theory of Motivation

The theory that behavior is driven by biologically-based instincts essential for survival.