03. Human Practical Issue

Question 1

What 3 things do psychologists aim for their research to be?

Answer 1

1. Accurate- are they measuring what they intend to measure, or are results affected by lying, guessing or other external factors?
2. Replicable- can other psychologists carry out their study and get the same results?
3. Universal- will the results apply to other people, places or times?

Question 1

What practical issues can affect validity?

Answer 1

1. Extraneous variables- any variable that may affect the DV that is not the IV. For example situational or participant variables. The researcher needs to ensure these remain constant.
2. Confounding variables- a type of extraneous variable where the extraneous variable changes systematic with the IV (it is acting as another IV and affects the DV).

Question 2

Describe the ethical guideline deception.

Answer 2

When the participant is not told the true aim or is deliberately given misinformation (eg a fake result that they did poorly on an IQ test). This refers to self-deception, where the research may lead people to form false stereotypes (eg believing they have a lower than average IQ) that then becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Question 3

Describe the ethical guideline informed consent.

Answer 3

Participants should be given comprehensive information concerning the nature and purpose of the study and their role in it so they can make a decision about taking part. It is important in any research, but especially so when it is socially sensitive.

Question 4

Describe the ethical guideline protection from harm.

Answer 4

Participants should not experience negative physical effects, or psychological effects, such as lowered self-esteem as a consequence of taking part.

Question 5

Describe the ethical guideline right to withdraw.

Answer 5

Participants should be told that they can stop participating in a study in for any reason they are feeling uncomfortable.

Question 6

Describe the ethical guideline anonymity and confidentiality.

Answer 6

-A person’s right to have personal information protected through anonymity (not giving their real name, location or photographing them) or by keeping information safe (confidentiality).
-Some research may lead to social policies that are an invasion of people’s privacy. For example, AIDS research may lead to laws requiring certain people to undergo compulsory testing.
-Confidentiality of data (breaches confidentiality in relation to sensitive issues could have fear reaching social and economic consequences).

Question 7

What are the 4 BPS ethical principles?

Answer 7

1. Respect
2. Competence
3. Responsibility
4. Integrity