Evaluate Czeisler et al (1990) Flashcards
What are two strengths of Czeisler’s study?
The difference between the control group and experimental group was very large with the environmental group’s biological measures moving by over nine hours. This is a strength as the study was groundbreaking and led to design of treatment for those affected by disruption to their circadian rhythms such as light treatment.
As a controlled experimental condition was used, variables such as caffeine intake were controlled. This is a strength as the results were more valid because it could’ve only been the light which caused the change in circadian rhythms.
What are two weaknesses of Czeisler’s study?
Participants may have been adversely affected by having their temperatures constantly taken which may have affected the validity of results. The experiment involved complex procedure which is a weakness because it meant it was time consuming to run.
The study did not counter all external variables as participants were away from the lab during the day/when sleeping. This is a weakness as there may have been variations in what they ate and when they ate, the light they were exposed to etc.
