Introduction to Scientific Research and Measurement in Psychology

Flashcards summarizing key concepts from the lecture on scientific research and measurement in psychology.

What is the foundational idea behind scientific measurement in research?

Objectivity, meaning measurements should be independent of who is measuring.

What does the term variable refer to in psychology?

It refers to the thing being measured, such as behavior or physiological data.

What is an operational definition?

A precise definition of the procedures and methods used in research to avoid ambiguity.

What is test-retest reliability?

The ability of a test to produce the same results when administered to the same person multiple times.

What does inter-rater reliability ensure?

It ensures that multiple observers agree on the observed behavior.

What is validity in the context of psychological research?

It refers to whether a measurement is actually measuring what it claims to measure.

Why is generalizability important in research findings?

It allows researchers to apply study conclusions to broader populations beyond the sample studied.

What is convenience sampling?

It is a sampling method that involves selecting individuals who are easily accessible.

How can ecological validity affect the results of a study?

It refers to the extent to which study results can be applied to real-world behaviors.

What is the Mozart effect, and what was a major criticism regarding its generalization?

It is the hypothesis that listening to classical music can increase intelligence; criticized for being based on a small sample size and for overgeneralization of findings.