Chapter 2: Research Methods

Scientific method

1. develop a question

2. develop a hypothesis

3. design a study and collect data

4. analyze data

5. share the findings

Hypothesis

a guess or prediction, based on limited knowledge

Theory

A well-detailed explanation based on existing evidence

Operational definition

A specific way of defining and measuring a variable

Best samples are ____ & ____

random and representative

Naturalistic observation

Observing behavior in its natural environment without interfering

Case study

An in-depth investigation of one person, group, or situation

Survey method

Collecting information by asking people questions

Correlational research

Examining the relationship between two or more variables

Reliability

The consistency of a measurement or survey

Validity

How accurately a measurement measures what it is intended to measure

Positive correlation

As one variable increases, the other tends to increase

Negative correlation

As one variable increases, the other tends to decrease

Zero correlation

No consistent relationship between the variables

Correlation and causation

Correlation does not establish that one variable causes another

Independent variable

The variable manipulated or changed by the researcher

Dependent variable

The variable measured as the outcome of an experiment

Experimental/treatment group

The group that receives the experimental condition

Control/comparison group

The group used as a baseline for comparison

Double-blind design

Neither participants nor researchers know who receives which condition.

Purpose of double-blind design

Reduce bias and expectancy effects during an experiment

Confidentiality

Protecting participants' private information

Informed consent

Participants are told about the study and agree to participate

Debriefing

Explaining the study's purpose and procedures to participants afterward