concepts

bias

a limitation in objective thinking; tendency to perceive information through a cognitive filter of experience and preference.

important to recognize bias and understand how it may affect research/results

cultural bias

refers to the application of culturally specific norms or frameworks as if they were universal. may lead to misinterpretation of behavior across cultures and invalidate cross-cultural research

confirmation bias

tendency to seek interpret and recall information that supports existing beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence.

causality

relationship between variables with the goal of determining cause and effect relationships.

human behavior is complex, therefore causality is often result of the interaction of more than one variable

change

how to apply theory and findings with the goal of changing individual behaviors. there is a great debate to what extent we have free will over our behavior versus whether our behaviors are determined (bio)

measurement

authentic human behavior is difficult to observe and measure. measurement varies depending on context and theory.

important aspect is OPERATIONALIZATION of variables in order to allow for valid representation of behavior and reliable findings.

operationalization

process of turning abstract, unobservable concepts into specific, measurable, and observable variables

perspective

studying behavior is difficult as humans have self awareness, cognitive abilities, advanced social structures and cultures.

no single perspective explains human behavior sufficiently on its own.

emic

insider understanding

study behavior from within culture

emphasizes differences

investigates culture specific behaviors

etic

outsider understanding

assumes behavior is universal

universal frameworks

emphasizes similarities

alternative explanations and interpretations

considering multiple perspectives

reduces bias, avoids oversimplification, and improves validity

responsibility

psychologists are in position of power and have the responsibility to study mental health with care and compassion, as it is a highly sensitive topic, in order to minimise social stigma and harm

ethical standards

use of deception (minimal)

informed consent

confidentiality

debriefing

right to withdraw

protection from harm