Introductory Psychology: Research Methods

These flashcards focus on key vocabulary and concepts from an introductory psychology lecture on research methods, helping to reinforce learning and understanding.

Scientific Method

A systematic process used to gather evidence and reduce bias in scientific inquiry.

Hypothesis

A testable prediction based on a theory that suggests a specific relationship between variables.

Correlational Design

Research method that examines the relationship between two variables without manipulating either. It predicts how one variable may change in relation to another.

Experimental Design

Research method that involves manipulating one variable to determine its effect on another variable.

Independent Variable (IV)

The variable that is manipulated in an experiment to observe its effects.

Dependent Variable (DV)

The variable that is measured in an experiment to see how it is affected by the independent variable.

Operational Definition

A specific statement of the procedures used to define research variables in measurable terms.

Correlation Coefficient

A statistical index ranging from -1 to 1 that indicates the strength and direction of a relationship between two variables.

Causation

The relationship between two events where one event causes the other to occur.

Random Assignment

The process of assigning participants to different groups in an experiment randomly to ensure each participant has an equal chance of being placed in any group.

Placebo Effect

A phenomenon where participants experience a perceived improvement in condition due to believing they are receiving treatment.

Experimenter Bias

When a researcher’s expectations or preferences influence the outcome of a study.

Demand Characteristics

Cues in an experiment that suggest to participants what behavior is expected, potentially influencing their performance.

Replication

The process of repeating a study to see if the same results can be obtained, increasing confidence in the findings.