Lecture 3 Psychology

Independent Variable

The variable that is manipulated in an experiment; for example, cell phone use.

Dependent Variable

The variable that is measured in an experiment; for example, the number of errors made while driving.

Naturalistic Observation

A research method where behavior is observed in a natural setting without manipulation.

Correlational Studies

Statistical procedures for determining whether there is a relationship between two variables.

Correlation Coefficient

A numerical index of the degree of relationship between two variables, ranging from -1 to +1.

Spurious Correlation

A coincidental relationship between two variables that does not reflect a direct causal link.

Descriptive Statistics

Methods for organizing, summarizing, and interpreting numerical data.

Inferential Statistics

Techniques that allow researchers to determine if they can generalize findings from a sample to a larger population.

Statistical Significance

The probability that the observed findings are due to chance, typically indicated by a p-value.

Meta-Analysis

A study that combines the results of multiple studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of a particular phenomenon.