1.5 TYPES OF CLAIMS

claims

• claim: an argument someone is trying to make

  • we focus on claims based on empirical research

    • claims follow from data in the theory-data cycle

  • 3 types:

    • frequency: single variable

      • statement of how often something occurs

        • no intent to say what causes that level of variable

        • often used to draw attention to prevalence

    • association: assert that two variables are related to each other

      • the frequency of one variable is tired to or linked with the frequency of another

      • cannot assert strongly why the relationship exists

      • ask yourself: “could another variable plausibly cause both?”

    • causal: argue that two variables are related because one variable causes another variable

      • directionality in the relationship is asserted: “variable x causes change in variable y”

      • look for directed terminology: leads to, may lead to, affects, causes, increases, decreases, changes, etc.

      • independent variables: manipulated

      • dependent variables: measured

• CHALLENGE #1

  • claims based on psychological variables often depend on indirect measurements of psychological concepts we’re interested in

• CHALLENGE #2

  • different types of claims require different kinds of empirical evidence, and building up this “claim-dar” takes practice

• operational definition: how a concept is explicitly measured

  • psychological processes

    • “self-control” - concept

    • effortful inhibition of impulses

  • there are multiple operational definitions that are possible for any one conceptual definition

  • checklist for an ideal operational definition:

    • has clear rules

    • does not overly depend on interpretation of another concept that is not explained or observable

    • results in a variable with multiple values for each person in your study sample

    • results in a valid measurement of the construct

learning check

which of the following is the worst operational definition of self-control?

A. the choice in response to: “do you choose a candy bar worth 50 cents or one worth $1 next month?

B. the number of examples a participant provides when asked if they have good self-control

C. the number of times a participant reports that giving into temptation interferes with their life

D. the number of marshmallows someone eats in a day

learning check

which statement is an association claim?

A. 80% of school-aged children are physically inactive

B. being psychically active may enhance self-control in school-aged children

C. greater physical activity is linked with more self-control in school-aged children