Psychology: Research methods

Observational study

A research method where behavior is observed in a controlled setting.

Lab setting

A controlled environment where observations or experiments take place.

Inter+Intra observation validity

The accuracy and consistency of observations made by different observers and by the same observer over time.

Infants can't self-report

Babies are unable to communicate verbally about their thoughts, feelings, or experiences.

Demand characteristics

Cues in a study that lead participants to guess the researcher's hypotheses and adjust their behavior accordingly.

Social desirability

The tendency for participants to respond in a way that they believe is socially acceptable or favorable.

Bias

A systematic error in the design, conduct, or interpretation of a study that distorts the results.