General Psychology, 2: Research Methods Flashcards
What is a scientific theory?
A set of related concepts, statements or formulae that explain what is known about some phenomena and generate predictions for reseach.
What is serendipity in science?
Unexpected findings that emerge in the research process, which sometimes lead to breakthrough discoveries. This indicates that science does not always proceed in an orderly or predictable fashion, though chance favors the prepared mind.
What is an operational definition?
A definition of a key concept or variable in terms of how it is measured.
Differentiate naturalistic from participant observation.
In naturalistic observation, the observer attempts to be unobtrusive and avoid influencing the behavior under study. In participant observation, the observer becomes involved in the group under study in order to experience the context themselves; it is also used when unobtrusive measurement is not feasible.
Contrast longitudinal and cross-sectional research design.
Longitudinal studies make repeated observations of persons over extended periods of time to learn about development. Cross sectional studies take a more cost and time effective approach of comparing persons of different ages at the same point in time.
What is an experimenter expectancy effect?
When an experimenter holds certain beliefs about the outcome of an experiment, and these expectations affect the actual behavior of participants.
What is the ‘third variable problem’?
In correlational studies, since no variable is manipulated (controlled) by the researcher, it is impossible to rule out a third variable as a cause of the relationship. One of the reasons correlation does not imply causation.
What is ‘social desirability’?
A source of error in self-report research methods such as surveys, social desirability refers to our tendency to portray ourselves in the most socially acceptable manner, even when responses are anonymous.
What is an MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a powerful brain imaging technique that currently provides the most detailed images of living brains.
What is a hypothesis?
A testable prediction, which can take the form of an ‘if __ then __’ statement. Testability is the critical criterion.
Differentiate Independent and Dependent variables.
Independent variables are controlled (manipulated) by a researcher. They are treated as a potential cause. Dependent variables are only measured. They are treated as a potential effect of changes to the IV.
What is random assignment?
Randomly placing experimental participants in various treatment groups to ensure that the groups are as equal as possible in all background characteristics.
What is confirmation bias?
A human tendency to seek evidence for the purposes of ‘proving’ a priori beliefs. Generally considered detrimental and unscientific, it is a difficult habit to undo.
What is replication?
Exact repetition of a research study, conducted to determine if its findings are reliable. Many believe psychology findings are less reliable than other sciences, partly because replications have been devalued.
What is correlational research?
Research in which no variable is manipulated. Two or more variables are simply measured and studied for a possible relationship.
