Chapter 1

Question 1

Empiricism

Answer 1

a. Method: Involves using evidence from the senses (or instruments designed to assist the senses) as the basis for conclusions
i. Purpose: For systematically collecting data and refining theories
b. Example: treatment that has not been supported by evidence—Scared Straight Program
c. Hypothesis: Should be preregistered (publicly stated prior to data collection)
d. Using empiricism:
i. Statistical Analyses

Question 2

Theory-Data Cycle

Answer 2

: a theory leads to a research question, which leads to research design to test a hypothesis, then collect data

i. Theory: Statement describing general principles about how variables relate to one another
ii. Hypotheses: Specific outcomes we expect to see if a theory is accurate
iii. Data: set of observations

Question 3

Properties of Good Theories

Answer 3

a. Start with a preexisting theory
b. Falsifiable: Potentially observable data that would challenge the theory
c. Parsimonious: A simple theory that explains the data well is often preferred to a more complex theory that fails to better explain the data
d. Supported by replication
i. Allows for self-correction; science = accumulation of evidence
ii. Helps to extend the results, either generalizing the theory or setting boundaries
e. Cannot be proven

Question 4

Types of Research

Answer 4

a. Basic research: enhance general body of knowledge
b. Applied Research: Solves a specific, practical problem in a real-world context
c. Transitional research: uses lessons from basic research to develop and test applications for health care, psychotherapy, and other domains
i. A continuum

Question 5

Benefits/Costs of Press Coverage

Answer 5

a. Benefits: Can reach wider audience
b. Costs: Can be reported inaccurately, or without additional qualifiers that should be stated
i. Ex: Mozart Effect