Exam 1 Flashcards
The Scientific Method
Systematic observations.
Avoiding biases.
Tentative conclusions.
Descriptive Method
research techniques used to accurately describe and observe behaviors, patterns, or phenomena without manipulating variables
Naturalistic Observation
Involves studying larger groups in their natural settings, allowing observations of real-world behavior.
Case Studies
an in-depth analysis of one person or a small group
Surveys
Allow researchers to gather data from large groups about attitudes and behavior
Hawthorne Effect
the tendency for people to change their behavior when they are aware of being observed
Confirmation bias
the human tendency to only seek out information that supports one position or idea
Observer bias
the phenomenon where the observer’s knowledge of the treatment can influence their observations, either consciously or unconsciously
Correlational Method
measures the strength and direction of a relationship between variables without manipulating any variables
Positive Correlation
high levels of one variable associated with high levels of the other
Negative Correlation
high levels of one variable associated with low levels of the other
Zero Correlation
no relationship between the variables
Scatterplots
show relationships on a graph
Experimental Method
The formal experiment allows researchers to determine cause-and-effect relationships, unlike descriptive and correlational methods
Hypothesis
a testable prediction
Independent Variable (IV)
The independent variable is the variable that is manipulated or controlled by the researcher to observe its effect on the dependent variable (the cause)
Dependent Variable (DV)
The dependent variable is the variable that is measured or observed in the experiment (effect)
Operational Definitions
describes behavior so that it is observable and measurable, anyone who reads the definition will easily be able to identify if the behavior is occurring or not
Attribute variables
Attribute variables represent categories or groups rather than numerical values. They can include variables like gender, race, marital status, and educational level.
Validity
The degree to which a test or measurement tool accurately measures what it is intended to measure
Reliability
The consistency of a measure or the ability to produce the same results when applied repeatedly to the same person or process
Replication
The process of repeating a study to verify its results and determine if they are valid and reliable
Meta-analysis
A statistical analysis that combines the results of multiple studies on a specific topic to create a comprehensive understanding of the subject
Likert Scale
a rating system that measures attitudes, opinions, or perceptions by asking respondents to choose from a range of answer options
MRI
studies brain anatomy
Functional MRI (fMRI)
studies brain function
Spinal cord
Part of central nervous system (CNS), but can function independently of brain
Brainstem
