Approaches to Researching Behavior Notes

Quantitative

Research methodology that involves the use of numerical data and statistical analysis.

Operationalization

The process of defining and quantifying variables that cannot be directly measured.

Construct

A theoretically identifiable variable that needs to be operationalized in quantitative studies.

Experimental Studies

Studies that involve manipulating an independent variable to observe its effect on a dependent variable.

Correlational Studies

Studies that measure the relationship between variables without manipulating them.

Descriptive Studies

Studies that focus on individual variables separately and do not investigate relationships between variables.

Independent Variable

The variable that is manipulated by the researcher to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

Dependent Variable

The variable that changes as a result of the manipulation of the independent variable.

Control Variables

Variables that are kept constant throughout the experiment to eliminate their potential influence on the dependent variable.

Confounding Variables

Variables other than the independent variable that may affect the dependent variable and confound the results.

Sampling

The process of selecting a group of participants for a study.

Sample

The group of people participating in the experiment.

Target Population

The group of people to which the findings of the study are expected to be generalized.

Random Sampling

Participants are chosen at random, giving everyone an equal chance of being selected.

Stratified Sampling

Participants are chosen based on the proportions of people in the target population.

Convenience Sampling

Participants who are easily available are chosen for the study.

Self-Selected Sampling

Participants who voluntarily respond to an ad are chosen for the study.

Experimental Designs

Different designs used in experiments to compare groups or conditions.

Independent Measures Design

Participants are randomly assigned to different groups and each group goes through different trials.

Matched Pairs Design

Participants are matched based on certain characteristics and then assigned to different groups.

Repeated Measure Design

The same group of participants is exposed to multiple conditions and the conditions are compared.

Threats to Internal Validity

Factors that may affect the validity of the experiment's results.

Selection

Occurs when groups are not equivalent at the start of the experiment, potentially influencing the results.

History

Refers to outside events that may influence the dependent variable during the course of the experiment.

Maturation

Natural developmental processes that participants go through during the experiment, such as fatigue or growth.

Testing Effect

The first measurement of the dependent variable may affect subsequent measurements.

Instrumentation

Changes in the instrument used to measure the dependent variable between measurements.

Regression to the Mean

The tendency for extreme scores to move closer to the average in subsequent measurements.

Experiment Mortality

Participants dropping out of the experiment before it is completed.

Demand Characteristics

Participants changing their behavior subconsciously based on their understanding of the experiment's purpose.

Experimenter Bias

The unintentional influence of the researcher on the results of the study.

True Lab Experiment

An experiment conducted in a controlled laboratory setting where the independent variable is manipulated by the researcher.

True Field Experiment

An experiment conducted in a real-life setting where the independent variable is manipulated by the researcher.

Natural Experiment

An experiment where the independent variable is manipulated by nature in a real-life setting.

Quasi-Experiment

An experiment where the independent variable is not manipulated, but rather pre-existing differences are observed.

Triangulation

The use of multiple methods, data sources, researchers, or theories to strengthen the validity of the research.

Rapport

The establishment of a good relationship between the researcher and participants to ensure honest responses.

Iterative Questioning

The process of spotting ambiguous answers and returning to the topic later while rephrasing the question.

Reflexivity

The researcher reflecting on their own biases and how they may have influenced the observations or interpretations.

Credibility Checks

Checking the accuracy of data by asking participants to confirm the accuracy of transcripts or field notes.

Thick Descriptions

Providing detailed explanations of observed behavior and the context in which it occurred.

Biases in Qualitative Research

Potential biases that may affect the validity of qualitative research.

Participant Bias

Biases that participants may exhibit during the research process.

Researcher Bias

Biases that researchers may unintentionally introduce into the research process.

Types of Sampling

Different approaches to selecting participants for a study.

Quota Sampling

Determining the number of participants and their characteristics before the start of the research.

Purposive Sampling

Recruiting participants based on pre-defined characteristics.

Theoretical Sampling

Sampling until data saturation is reached, focusing on specific theoretical concepts.

Snowball Sampling

Inviting a small number of participants who then invite others