Methods in Psychology Flashcards

Flashcards covering key vocabulary, definitions, and concepts from Unit 2 on psychological methods including introspection, observation, and the experimental method.

Introspection

Self-observation or self-analysis involving looking inward to observe one's own behavior and thoughts; derived from the Greek words 'intro' (meaning looking inward) and 'spection' (meaning looking).

Retrospection

The act of looking back to a past moment to analyze one's behavior at a later point in time rather than at the exact moment it occurred.

Observation Method

A technique involving looking at the behavior of a person in a careful and detailed manner as they go about their day-to-day activities to study and analyze every minute behavioral aspect.

Controlled Observation

A classification of observation also referred to as experimental observation.

Uncontrolled Observation

A classification of observation also referred to as naturalistic observation.

Participant Observation

A classification of observation where the observer engages directly with or participates alongside the subject being observed.

Non-participant Observation

A classification of observation where the observer does not participate in the activities of the subject being observed.

Steps in Observation Method

The four sequential steps of observation: 1. Outlining the general domain of the behavior to be studied, 2. Start observing and recording behavior, 3. Interpreting and analyzing behavior, and 4. Generalising.

Observer's Bias

A limitation of the observation method defined as an error in judgment where the observer favors or disfavors a party without any fair reason.

Reactivity

A limitation of observation where the behavior of the subject changes because it becomes aware of the presence of the observer.

Experimental Method

A key research method in psychology described as a series of observations that granted psychology its status as a science.

Wilhelm Wundt

The individual who introduced the experimental method in psychology.