Research methods chapter 1-2

psychological science

Empirical, studies humans or animals naturally or designed, based on research

scientific method

-make observation

-make prediction based on observation

-conduct study for results to support/refute

-analyze results and accept, revise or reject

hypothesis

TESTABLE PREDICTION about relationship between 2+ variables prompted by existing theories

theory

OVERALL EXPLANATION for set of observed phenomena

a good theory

supported by data and is falsifiable

independent variable

CAN be manipulated/controlled, effect variable (X)

dependent variable

study’s outcome variable being influenced (Y)

extraneous variable

a variable other than the IV that might cause unwanted changes to the DV

good consumers

-able to evaluate evidence behind claims

-ask good questions

-make better more informed decisions

good producers

APA style paper, RMZ related research

faulty reasoning

allowing personal experiences and vivid case studies to overshadow stronger scientific experince

James randy

aura tester

belief bias

experience prevents us from seeing alternative explanations for observations

confounds

create false impression of a relationship between IV and DV (ex: hrs of sleep, test anxiety, studying hours)

empirical journal articles

study is reviewed/evaluated accepted and published

review journal articles

chapters in edited books that are not peer reviewed