Psychological Research Methods Overview

ch.2 pt 2

Science

A systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about the universe.

Psychological Research

The systematic investigation of psychological phenomena through scientific methods.

Experimental Research

Research conducted to demonstrate cause and effect relationships between variables.

Correlational Research

Research that examines the relationship between two or more variables without manipulation.

Random Assignment

A method used to assign participants to different groups in an experiment, ensuring each participant has an equal chance of being placed in any group.

Independent Variable

The variable in an experiment that is manipulated to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

Dependent Variable

The outcome variable that researchers measure in an experiment.

Correlation Coefficient (r)

A statistical measure that represents the degree to which two variables are related.

Positive Correlation

A relationship where an increase in one variable corresponds with an increase in another variable.

Negative Correlation

A relationship where an increase in one variable corresponds with a decrease in another variable.

Causation

The action of causing something; a relationship where one event directly affects another.

Double-blind Procedure

An experimental design in which neither the participants nor the researchers know who is in the experimental or control group.

Ethics in Psychology

Guidelines and principles that help psychologists conduct research responsibly and with consideration for participants' welfare.

Empirical Data Collection

Data collected through direct observation or experimentation, rather than through theory or opinion.

Peer Review

The process by which researchers submit their work to experts in the field for evaluation before publication.

Theory

A comprehensive explanation of some aspect of nature that is supported by a vast body of evidence.

Hypothesis

A testable prediction about the relationship between two or more variables.

Control Group

The group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment or intervention, used for comparison.

Experimental Group

The group in an experiment that receives the treatment or intervention being tested.

Data Analysis

The process of inspecting, cleaning, and modeling data to discover useful information.

Statistical Significance

A determination of whether the results of a study are likely due to something other than random chance.

Practical Limitations

Constraints related to the method or condition of a study that can affect its validity or feasibility.

Artificial Conditions

Controlled settings in experiments that may not reflect real-world scenarios.

Variable

Any factor, trait, or condition that can exist in differing amounts or types.

Natural Conditions

Environments where researchers observe behavior without manipulation or control.

Observational Study

A study that involves obtaining data by watching subjects in their natural environment.

Index of Hyperactivity

A measure used to quantify the level of hyperactivity in subjects, often through a scoring system.

Bias in Research

A systematic error that leads to incorrect conclusions or interpretations.

Sample

A subset of individuals selected from a larger population for the purpose of research.

Generalizability

The extent to which research findings can be applied to settings or groups beyond the sample studied.

Data Plotting

The act of visually representing data points on a graph to observe patterns or correlations.

Third Variable Problem

An issue in a correlational study where an additional variable may influence the relationship between the two main variables.

Revision of Theory

The process of modifying existing theories based on new evidence or insights from research.