Chapter 1: Psychology is a Way of Thinking Flashcards
Epiricism
The use of verifiable evidence as the basis for conclusions; collecting data systematically and using it to develop, support, or challenge a theory. Also called empirical method, empirical research.
Scientists don’t say _______.
“prove”
Evidence-based treatment
Any psychotherapy technique whose effectiveness has been supported by empirical research
Theory
Statement/set of statements that describes general principles about how variables are related
Hypothesis
A prediction that a researcher plans to observe/study
Data
Set of collected observations
Preregistered
Before collecting data, the researcher has stated publicly what the expected outcome is
Replication
The process of conducting a study again to retest the results
Weight of evidence
Conclusion drawn from reviewing scientific literature and considering the proportion of studies that is consistent with a theory
Falsifiability
Ability to be deemed false by collection of data
Universalism
One of Merton’s 4 scientific norms, states that scientific claims are evaluated according to their merit, independent of the researcher’s credentials or reputation. The same preestablished criteria apply to all scientists.
Communality
One of Merton’s 4 scientific norms, states that scientific knowledge is created by a community and its findings belong to that community
Disinterestedness
One of Merton’s 4 scientific norms, states that scientists strive to discover the truth; they are not swayed by conviction, politics, profit, or idealism
Organized skepticism
One of Merton’s 4 scientific norms, states that scientists question everything, including their own theories, ancient wisdom, and widely accepted theories
Self-correcting
A process in which scientists peer review, replicate, and critique each other’s work
