AP Psych Notes Unit 1

Method of Authority

Seeking answers or solutions from an authoritative figure (e.g., asking parents for help).

Rational Method

Using logic to solve a problem independently (e.g., resetting an outlet).

Correlational Study

Examining the relationship between two variables (e.g., GPA and memory).

Experimentation

A method aimed at determining cause and effect relationships.

Random

A selection process where every individual has an equal chance of being chosen.

Subject/Sample/Parts

The organisms involved in a study.

Population

The larger group represented by the subjects in a study.

Independent Variable

The variable being manipulated or compared in an experiment (e.g., alcohol amount).

Dependent Variable

The variable being measured, which depends on the independent variable (e.g., coordination test score).

Experimental Group

The group receiving the treatment or focus of the study.

Control Group

The group used for comparison against the experimental group.

Placebo

A non-active treatment used as a control.

Single Blind

A study design where participants are unaware of their group assignment.

Double Blind

A study design where both participants and researchers are unaware of group assignments to reduce bias.

Confounding Variable

Uncontrolled factors that may influence the study's outcome.

Collecting Data

The process of conducting the experiment and gathering information.

Analyzing Data

Reviewing findings to assess the validity of the hypothesis.

Revise and Retest

Repeating the experiment to check for consistent results and refine the hypothesis.

Develop a Conclusion

Determining if the hypothesis is valid, not valid, or inconclusive.

Hypothesis

A proposed explanation for a question or phenomenon.

Theory

A well-supported hypothesis backed by multiple sources.

Law

A universally accepted theory that is consistently accurate.

Survey

A method of collecting anonymous responses through questions (e.g., election polls).

Interview

A face-to-face questioning method, which may lead to dishonesty.

Case Study

In-depth information collection from a single individual over time (e.g., studying conjoined twins).

Longitudinal Study

Data collection from a group over an extended period (e.g., tracking children of mothers who used cocaine).

Cross-Sectional Study

Gathering data from different groups at one point in time (e.g., comparing children of various ages).

Naturalistic Observation

Observing subjects in their natural environment without their awareness (e.g., using hunting cameras).

Informed Consent

Participants agree to take part in the study after being informed of its nature.

Opt Out at Any Time

Participants can leave the study whenever they choose.

Contact Researcher

Researchers must provide a way for participants to reach them with questions or concerns.

Confidentiality

The obligation to keep certain information private (e.g., names and addresses).

Treat Animals with Minimal Pain

Ensuring that animal subjects experience as little pain as possible during research (e.g., cancer research on rats).