Descriptive Studies: Establishing the Facts Flashcards
There are different methods in which psychologists gather evidence to support their hypothesis.
Define: Representative Sample
A group of randomly chosen participants that represent the larger population the researcher is interested in.
What is more critical in a sample?
- Size
- Representativeness
Representativeness
What types of methods used in research allows the researcher to describe and predict behavior without having to choose one explanation over a competing one?
Descriptive Methods
Clinicians often use case studies. What is a case study?
A case study is a detailed description of one particular individual, based on observation or formal psychological testing. They create a better picture of an individual compared to any other method.
Can case studies serve as a test or hypothesis?
No, they can only serve as a source of information.
What does a researcher do in Observational Studies?
The researcher observes, measures, and records behavior while avoiding intrusion on the subjects being observed.
What is the purpose of Naturalistic Observation?
The purpose is to find out how subjects act in their normal social environments.
How can Laboratory Observation be beneficial?
Researchers have more control, and they can use cameras, recording devices, determine amount of subjects, maintain a clear line of vision, etc.
Why is Laboratory Observation more useful in describing behavior rather than explaining it?
Participants in laboratory observations may behave differently than they do in their normal surroundings.
Define: Psychological Tests
Psychological tests measure and evaluate personality traits, emotional states, aptitudes, interests, abilities, and values.
What is the difference between Objective Tests and Projective Tests?
Objective tests (inventories) measure beliefs, feelings, or behaviors of which the test taker is aware. Projective tests are designed to tap into unconscious feelings or motives.
A Standardized Test includes…
Uniform procedures that exist for giving and scoring of the test.
Test scoring is done by referring to…
Norms
- established standards of performance
- determines which scores are high, low, and average
A reliable test would…
Produce the same results in any given time or place.
If a test is valid…
The test is measuring what it is designed to test.
