Sociology Chapter 2

Vocabulary flashcards covering key research methodology concepts including research approaches, variable definitions, hypothesis structures, and research ethics guidelines.

Dependent Variable

The outcome variable in a research relationship (IV ---> DV).

Independent Variable

The variable that acts as the influence or cause in a research relationship (IV ---> DV).

Hypothesis

A proposed relationship and testable expectation that includes a direction of association (+/-).

Induction

An approach to research that moves from observations to empirical generalizations and then to theories.

Deduction

An approach to research that moves from theories to hypotheses and then to observations.

Cycle of Research Diagram

A cyclical model illustrating how deduction connects theories, hypotheses, and observations, while induction connects observations, empirical generalizations, and theories.

Direction of Association

The positive (+) or negative (-) characterization of the proposed relationship within a hypothesis.

Respect for Persons

One of the three basic ethical principles established for the protection of human subjects in research.

Beneficence

One of the three basic ethical principles established for the protection of human subjects in research.

Justice

One of the three basic ethical principles established for the protection of human subjects in research.

ASA Code of Ethics

The ethical framework and rules provided by the American Sociological Association to govern social science research.