Psyc202 Week2

Research Strategies

Quasi-Experimental Design

• Definition: No control over group assignment.

• Types:

  • Differential Research Design: Compare groups based on characteristics (e.g., smokers vs. non-smokers).

  • Posttest-Only Non-Equivalent Control Group Design: Comparison post-treatment without random assignment.

  • Pretest-Posttest Non-Equivalent Control Group Design: Observations before and after treatment, mitigates assignment bias.

Developmental Research Designs

• Types:

  • Cross-Sectional: Compare different age groups at one point in time (e.g., 10-19 vs. 20-29).

  • Longitudinal: Multiple observations over time, avoiding cohort effects but facing dropout and fatigue challenges.

Correlational Research

• Definition: Demonstrates relationships between variables without manipulation (e.g., A and B).

• Pros: High external validity, measures natural relationships.

• Cons: Low internal validity, unclear causality, potential third-variable problem.

Descriptive Research

• Methods:

  • Observational: Systematic behavior recording in natural settings.

  • Survey: Questionnaires assessing attitudes and behaviors.

  • Case Study: In-depth look at a single participant's experiences.