Psychology Exam 1: Historical Figures, Research Methods, and Cognitive Biases

What is the definition of Confirmation Bias?

Seeking information that only supports what you already believe.

What effect does Hindsight Bias describe?

The 'I knew it all along' effect after an event has happened.

What is the Anchoring Bias?

The brain fixates on the first piece of info and doesn't want to deal with other options.

What does the Bandwagon Effect refer to?

Group thinking; wanting to fit in (FOMO).

What is the Halo Effect?

Generalizing someone as positive in all areas because of one trait.

What does Optimism Bias entail?

Believing you are above average (e.g., 90% of people think they are above average).

What is Negativity Bias?

One bad thing outweighs many good things.

What is the Sunk Cost Fallacy?

Continuing an endeavor because of previously invested resources.

What are Heuristics?

Mental shortcuts that produce 'good enough' decisions with low effort.

What is the Dual Process Model in cognitive biases?

It consists of System 1 (fast, subconscious thinking) and System 2 (slow, methodical thinking).

What does it mean when the brain is described as a 'cognitive miser'?

It seeks to save energy for important issues.

What is the significance of the phrase 'Data is like a lamp post to a drunk'?

It suggests that data is used for support/leaning rather than for true illumination.

How does the brain's need for certainty affect its growth?

The brain loves certainty but actually needs uncertainty to grow stronger.

What does the concept 'We are smoothies' refer to?

It describes how the brain processes information.

Name a key literature that discusses cognitive biases.

'Thinking Fast and Slow' by Kahneman.

What is the role of the Law of Large Numbers in research?

Larger sample sizes allow results to be generalized to the whole population.

What is the Third Variable Problem in correlation?

An outside factor might be causing the observed relationship.

What does the term 'Operational Definitions' refer to?

Defining variables in measurable numbers (scores, ratings).

What is the difference between correlation and causation?

Correlation suggests a relationship, while causation establishes a direct cause-and-effect relationship.

What is the Independent Variable in an experimental design?

The factor you manipulate.

What is the Dependent Variable in an experimental design?

The factor you measure (the 'thing' that changes).