Lecture_9

Self-reports

Data collected directly from individuals, often through surveys or interviews.

Observational studies

Research methods that involve observing and recording behavior without manipulation of the environment.

Archival data

Existing data collected for a different purpose that can be used for research.

Open-ended questions

Survey questions that allow respondents to answer in their own words.

Forced-choice questions

Survey questions that provide fixed options from which respondents must select.

Likert scales

Rating scales used to measure attitudes or opinions, usually ranging from strong agreement to strong disagreement.

Construct validity

The extent to which a survey or test measures the theoretical construct it intends to measure.

Observer bias

A phenomenon where the researcher's expectations influence their observations and interpretations.

Reactivity

When participants alter their behavior because they are aware they are being observed.

Factor analysis

A statistical method used to identify underlying relationships between variables.

Test-retest reliability

The consistency of survey results when the same test is administered to the same population at different points in time.

Internal reliability

The consistency of results across items within a test or survey.

Face validity

The degree to which a test appears effective in terms of its stated aims.

Convergent validity

The degree to which two measures of constructs that should be related are, in fact, related.

Divergent validity

The degree to which measures of different constructs are not related.

Structured interviews

Interviews that follow a set script or list of questions.

Semi-structured interviews

Interviews with a mix of predetermined questions and the flexibility to explore topics further.

Unstructured interviews

Interviews that are more open-ended and conversational.

Naturalistic observation

Observing subjects in their natural environment without interference.

Participant observation

The researcher becomes part of the community being studied to gain insight.

Structured observation

A method where the observer sets up a specific situation to observe participants.

Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI)

A psychological assessment used to evaluate narcissistic traits in individuals.

Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale

A widely used self-report instrument for evaluating self-esteem.

Acquiescence

The tendency to agree with statements regardless of their content.

Fence-sitting

Choosing a neutral or middle position on rating scales.

Socially desirable responding

The tendency of respondents to answer questions in a manner that will be viewed favorably by others.

Pilot testing

A preliminary test of a survey or research tool to evaluate its effectiveness before full-scale implementation.

In-depth study

An extensive examination of an individual or small group, typically presenting comprehensive details.

Critical periods

Specific times during development when an individual is particularly receptive to certain stimuli.

Observer effect

Changes in participants' behavior due to the awareness of being observed.

Reliability threshold

The standard benchmark, typically set at 0.70, used to evaluate the reliability of a measure.

Validity

The degree to which a test measures what it is supposed to measure.

Demographics

Statistical data relating to the population and particular groups within it.

Sampling

The process of selecting individuals from a population to participate in research.