Psychology Research Methods & Key Concepts: Validity, Variables, and Automatic Processing

automatic processing

Fast, effortless, and unconscious thinking that happens without deliberate control (like reflexes or habits).

internal validity

The confidence that changes in the dependent variable are really caused by the independent variable, not by other factors.

external validity

The extent to which study results can be generalized to real-world settings, people, and situations.

independent variable (IV)

The factor the researcher manipulates or changes to test its effect (the "cause"). Example: violent vs. nonviolent video game.

dependent variable (DV)

The outcome the researcher measures to see if it changes because of the IV (the "effect"). Example: aggression level after playing the game.

hypothesis

A testable prediction about the relationship between variables. Example: "Playing violent games increases aggression."

objective in research

The broader goal or purpose of the study—what researchers want to understand or demonstrate. Example: To see how media influences behavior.

unit bias

The tendency to treat one unit (e.g., one candy, one slice, one spoonful) as the "right" amount to consume, regardless of actual size.