2. Psychology as a Science

Question 1

Define hypothesis.

Answer 1

A specific prediction about a phenomenon

Question 2

Define theory.

Answer 2

A set of formal statements explaining how and why events are related to one another

Question 3

Define empirical evidence.

Answer 3

Data collected through direct observation or experiment

Question 4

What are the key features of a science?

Answer 4

Emphasis on falsifying hypotheses
Using empirical data
Parsimony of theory
Ability to conduct controlled experiments
Measuring accurately
Facilitating predictions

Question 5

What is hindsight?

Answer 5

After-the-fact understanding

Question 6

6 steps to the scientific method

Answer 6

1. initial observation
2. gather info and form hypothesis
3. test hypothesis (research)
4. analyse data, draw conclusions
5. report findings
6. further research + theory building

Question 7

What are the theoretical assumptions?

Answer 7

Determinism
Generality
Systematicity

Question 8

What are the methodological assumptions?

Answer 8

Empiricism
Scepticism
Experimentation

Question 9

What is deducting reasoning?

Answer 9

Top-down
Generalising from broad to specific
Re-state what’s already known

Question 10

What is inductive reasoning?

Answer 10

Bottom-up
Generalising from specific to broad
Generate predictions about the future

Question 11

What are the ethical guidelines?

Answer 11

Respect
Competence
Responsibility
Integrity