Overview of Psychological Research Methods

ch.2 pt 1

What is a science?

A system of knowledge governed by lawful order that can be observed, measured, and tested.

Scientific method

A systematic approach designed to maintain accuracy and precision in the scientific process.

Hypothesis

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

Variable

Any measurable condition that is controlled or observed in a study.

Operational definition

A specific definition of a variable that is measurable and observable for testing.

Random sample

A subset of a population where every individual has an equal chance of being selected.

Population

The entire group of interest to the researchers being studied.

Sample

A portion of the population that is selected for the study.

Sampling bias

A flaw in sampling where the selected sample does not represent the population.

Naturalistic observation

Observing and recording behavior in its natural context without interference.

Case study

An in-depth investigation of a single participant using various data collection techniques.

Advantages of case study

Allows for detailed study of rare behaviors and offers support for behavioral causes.

Disadvantages of case study

Results may not generalize, potential for researcher bias, cannot determine cause and effect.

Survey

A data collection method where participants answer questions about their behavior.

Advantages of survey

Quick and cost-effective; useful for studying behaviors that are hard to observe directly.

Disadvantages of survey

Subject to participant bias and wording effects, cannot determine cause and effect.

Experimental research

Research used to demonstrate cause and effect through manipulation of variables.

Correlational research

Research that examines how two or more variables are related without manipulation.

Independent variable (IV)

The variable that is deliberately manipulated in an experiment.

Dependent variable (DV)

The variable that is measured in response to changes in the independent variable.

Experimental group

The group in an experiment that receives the treatment or manipulation.

Control group

The group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment and serves for comparison.

Cause and effect conclusions

Conclusions that can be made when a difference in groups is attributed to the independent variable.

Hawthorne effect

When participants alter their behavior due to awareness of being observed.

Participants bias

When responses are influenced by what participants think they should say.

Data collection techniques

Various methods such as case studies, observations, surveys, and experiments used to gather data in research.

Steps in research design

1. Make observations 2. Develop hypothesis 3. Choose participants and methods.

Review literature

The process of examining previous studies and findings relevant to the research question.

Testable hypothesis

A hypothesis that can be supported or refuted through experimentation or observation.

Refined sugar consumption

Intake of processed sugars, often linked to behavioral issues in children.

Behavioral characteristics

Attributes and tendencies displayed by individuals in response to stimuli.

In-depth investigation

A comprehensive analysis focusing on a particular subject or case study.

Instructions for activities

Guidelines provided to participants on how to engage in tasks or games.