Descriptive Methods

Question 1

Descriptive Methods

Answer 1

Descriptive research methods tell us how, when and where but never why.
1. We describe for the sake of description (large representative sample)
2. descriptions allow for measurement (operational definitions)
3. descriptions establish correlations (not causality)

Question 2

Types of Descriptive Methods

Answer 2

• Tests- standardized measurement of ability, knowledge or personality variables.
• Observational Data- (laboratory, naturalistic & participant)
• Ex Post Facto Data- Using data that already exists (eg. examining mental illnesses). Validity concerns: generalizability
• Interviews- (structured, semi-structured & unstructured)
• Archival Data- using another reseracher’s existing records and re-examining them for a new purpose

Question 3

Mistakes to avoid

Answer 3

1. Double barreled questions
2. Long questions
3. Leading questions
4. Big words

Question 4

Demand Characteristics
Interviewer Bias
Social Desirability Bias
Response sets

Answer 4

1. Demand characteristics (responds in the way the situation demands or how they think the researcher wants them to respond)
2. Interviewer bias (intentionally or unintentionally bias the response of the participants through verbal or non verbal signals)
3. Social desirability bias (Socially desirable responses may result)
4. Response sets skew data (habit of responding in a particular way- all yes/no/neutral answers)