Ch 2 Vid 3 Research Designs

Naturalistic Observation

A research method where behavior is systematically observed and recorded in a natural environment.

Ethology

The science of animal behavior, often involving the study of an organism's natural behaviors in their habitat.

Ethogram

An inventory of behaviors exhibited by a particular species, used in the study of ethology.

Case Study

An intensive examination of a single individual or a small group, often used when studying rare disorders or unique talents.

Control Group Design

An experimental design where one group receives no manipulation, providing a baseline to compare against the experimental group.

Independent Variable

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

Dependent Variable

The measure of the effect of the independent variable manipulation, often referred to as the target behavior.

Factorial Design

An experimental design that involves more than one independent variable, allowing for the examination of their interactions.

Comparative Psychology

The field of psychology focusing on identifying species differences to understand evolutionary changes.

Single Subject Design

An experimental design where each participant serves as their own control, allowing for personalized analysis of treatment effectiveness.

Small N Design

Another term for single subject design; focuses on individual differences in behavioral intervention.

Evolutionary Change

Alterations in species over time, often investigated through comparative designs to understand selective pressures.