Ch 1: Scientific Psych

Empirical Evidence

Information gathered through direct observation and measurement

• provides objective data

- ex: measuring reaction times in cognitive experiments

Systematic Observation

Structured and controlled methods of data collection

• ensures reliability & reduces bias

Replication

Repeating studies to verify findings

• establishes confidence in results

Peer Review

Expert evaluation of research before publication

• maintains quality standards in research

The Research Process

1. Observation & question formation

2. Literature Review

3. Hypothesis Development

4. Research Design

5. Data Collection

6. Statistical Analysis

7. Interpretation & Conclusion

8. Dissemination

Observation and Question Formation

Researchers begin by observing behavior/ mental processes that spark curiosity or challenge existing theories

Literature Review

Examining existing research to understand what is already known and identify gaps in knowledge

Hypothesis Development

Creating testable predictions based on theoretical frameworks and previous findings

Research Design

Selecting appropriate methods to test hypotheses while controlling for confounding variables

Data Collection

Systematically gathering information using validated instruments and procedures

Statistical Analysis

Applying appropriate statistical techniques to identify patterns and relationships in the data

Interpretation and Conclusion

Drawing meaningful conclusions while acknowledging limitations and implications

Dissemination

Sharing findings through peer-reviewed publications and professional presentations

Systematic Empiricism

Learning about the world through careful observation

Empirical Questions

A question about the way the world actually is that can be answered by making systematic observations

Public Knowledge

Detailed descriptions of research that are available to other researchers and the general public - usually found in professional journals

Pseudoscience

A set of beliefs or activities that are claimed to be scientific by their proponents and may appear to be scientific at first glance, but are NOT

• lacks 1 or more of the three features of science

Testability

Makes specific, testable predictions

• pseudoscience = vague/ untestable claims

Evidence

Relies on empirical data & peer review

• pseudo = cherry-picked data

Methodology

Uses controlled experiments and systematic observation

• pseudo: lacks rigorous methodology/ controls

Falsifiability

Theories can be proven wrong with evidence

Progress

Knowledge builds cumulatively over time

Analytical Reasoning

Breaking down complex problems into manageable components and examining relationships between variables

Evidence Evaluation

Assessing the quality, relevance, and reliability of research findings and data sources

Bias Recognition

Identifying potential sources of bias in research design, data interpretation, and personal judgement

Alternative Explanations

Considering multiple possible explanations for observed phenomena before drawing conclusions

Statistical Literacy

Understanding basic statistical concepts and their appropriate application in psychological research

Ethical Reasoning

Recognizing ethical considerations in research design and application of psychological principles

Establish of first psychology laboratories

Late 1800s → introduced controlled experimentation to psychology

Development of Statistical Methods

Early 1900s → enabled quantitative analysis of psychological phenomena

Emphasis on Operational Definitions

Mid 1900s → improved percision & replicability of research

Introduction of Meta-Analysis

Late 1900s → increased transparency & methodological rigor