Scientific Foundations of Psychology

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the scientific foundations of psychology, research methods, and statistical analysis.

Experimental Methodology

Involves the use of independent variable(s) and random assignment to groups.

Non-Experimental Methodologies

Include case study, correlation, meta-analysis, and naturalistic observation.

Operational Definition

A clear definition of a variable that allows the study to be replicated.

Random Sampling

A sampling method where every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected.

Convenience Sampling

A sampling method where participants are selected based on availability and willingness.

Sampling Bias

Occurs when the sample is not representative of the population, affecting the generalizability of the study.

Independent Variable

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

Dependent Variable

The variable that is measured in an experiment; it is affected by the independent variable.

Placebo Effect

A phenomenon where participants experience a perceived improvement in condition due to believing they are receiving treatment.

Single-Blind Procedure

An experimental design where participants do not know which group they belong to, reducing bias.

Double-Blind Procedure

An experimental design where both participants and experimenters are unaware of group assignments to prevent bias.

Qualitative Research

Research that gathers non-numerical data to understand concepts, opinions, or experiences.

Quantitative Research

Research that uses numerical data to quantify variables and analyze patterns.

Correlation Coefficient

A statistical measure that describes the direction and strength of a relationship between two variables.

Hindsight Bias

The tendency to see events as having been predictable after they have already occurred.

Confirmation Bias

The tendency to search for, interpret, and remember information that confirms one's preconceptions.

Peer Review

The process by which a research study is evaluated by others in the same field before publication.

Institutional Review Board (IRB)

A committee that reviews research proposals to ensure ethical standards are met.

Informed Consent

The process of providing potential research participants with enough information to make an informed decision about participation.

Confidentiality

The ethical principle of keeping participant information private and secure.

Informed Assent

A process similar to informed consent but specifically for participants unable to legally provide their consent.

Measures of Central Tendency

Statistical measures that describe the center of a data set, including mean, median, and mode.

Normal Curve

A symmetrical, bell-shaped curve representing the distribution of many types of data.

Skewed Distribution

A distribution that is not symmetrical and has a long tail on one side.

Bimodal Distribution

A distribution with two different modes, indicating the presence of two distinct groups within the data.