Chapter 13

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology related to descriptive research methods, observational research, and measurement techniques.

Descriptive Research

Research that aims to describe a single variable or set of variables as they exist naturally.

Observational Research

A research method where the researcher observes and systematically records the behavior of individuals.

Behavioral Observation

The act of observing behaviors while ensuring that they are not influenced by the observer.

Inter-rater Reliability

A method to ensure consistent results by having multiple observers record behaviors independently.

Naturalistic Observation

Observation without any researcher intervention, allowing behaviors to occur naturally.

Participant Observation

A research method where the researcher interacts and becomes part of the group being studied.

Contrived Observation

A research method where the researcher sets up a situation to elicit a specific behavior.

Content Analysis

A technique used in observational research to measure the occurrence of specific events in media.

Archival Research

A research method that examines historical records to measure past behaviors or events.

Latency

The amount of time that elapses between a certain event and a behavior.

Duration Measurements

Measures how long a behavior lasts.

Physiological Measures

Measurements that assess neural activity or bodily reactions as indicators of psychological phenomena.

Observer Effects

Changes in behavior that occur when individuals are aware they are being observed.

Generalization

The extent to which findings from a study can be applied to a broader population.

Sampling Observations

Techniques used to select representative samples for research, such as time sampling and event sampling.

Strengths of Naturalistic Observation

Observing real-world behavior without manipulation, leading to more genuine data.

Weaknesses of Naturalistic Observation

It can be time-consuming and risks observer bias.

Main Effect

Influence of the independent variable

Why are repeated measures beneficial?

Repeated measures reduce variability, require fewer participants, convenient and efficient, and is a more sensitive design

Correlation does not imply

Causation

If I wanted to examine three independent variables, two with two levels and one with three levels for a total 12 conditions, this would be considered what kind of design?

2X2X3 Design