Chapter 2 Vocab Flashcards
Research Methods
The Scientific procedures that sociologists use to conduct research and develop knowledge about a particular topic
Objectivity
The ability to conduct research without allowing personal biases or prejudices to influence you.
Independent Variables
Variables that are deliberately manipulated in an experiment
Dependent Variables
The response to the manipulated variable
Control Variables
Variables that re kept constant to accurately test the impact of an independent variable
Casual Relationship
A relationship in which one condition leads to a certain consequence
Causation
The relationship between cause and effect
Correlation
An indication that one factor might be the cause for another factor
Positive Correlation
Two variables that move in a parallel direction
Negative Correlation
When variables move in opposite directions
Spurious Correlation
Occurs when two variables appear to be related, but actually have a different cause.
Social Research
Investigation conducted by social scientists
Literature Review
A study of relevant academic articles and information
Theory
A comprehensive and systematic explanation of events that lead to testable predictions
Hypothesis
A suggestion about how variables relate
