Chapter 1: Introduction & Research Methods Flashcards
Basic Research
Research conducted to advance scientific knowledge rather than for practical application
Applied Research
Research designed to solve practical problems
Biological Research
The scientific study of the brain and other parts of the nervous system
Biopsychosocial Model
A unifying theme of modern psychology that considers biological, psychological, and social processes
Correlation Coefficient
Number indicating strength and direction of the relationship between two variables (-1.00 to +1.00)
Correlational Research
A method by which the researcher observes or measures (without directly manipulating) two or more variables to find relationships between them
Critical Thinking
The process of objectively evaluating, comparing, analyzing, and synthesizing information
Debriefing
Upon completion of the research, participants are informed of the study’s design and purpose, and explanations are provided for any possible deception
Dependent Variable (DV)
A variable that is measured; it is affected by (or dependent on) the independent variable
Descriptive Research
Research method used to observe and describe behavior and mental processes without manipulating variables
Empirical Evidence
Information acquired by direct observation and measurement using systematic scientific method
Experimental Research
A carefully controlled scientific procedure that determines whether variables manipulated by the experimenter have a causal effect on other variables
Independent Variable (IV)
A variable that is manipulated to determine its causal effect on the dependent variable
Informed Consent
A participant’s agreement to take part in a study after being told what to expect
Nature-nurture Controversy
The ongoing dispute over the relative contributors of nature (biological & genetic factors) and nurture (environment) to the development of behavior and mental processes
