Idiographic And Nomothetic Approaches Flashcards
What is the idiographic approach?
An approach to research that focuses more on individual cases as a way of understanding behaviour, rather than aiming to formulate general laws
What research methods are used with the idiographic approach?
- Case studies
- Unstructured interviews
- Self-report measures
What approaches are linked with the idiographic approach?
Humanistic and Psychodynamic
Why is the idiographic approach unscientific?
Uses qualitative, subjective data and isn’t replicable
Why does the idiographic approach lack validity?
Methods used are less scientifically rigorous, so less valid
Why is the idiographic approach good for treating disorders?
Treatment is tailored to the individual and should work for them
What is the nomothetic approach?
An approach that attempts the study human behaviour through the development of general principles and universal laws
What research methods are used with the nomothetic approach?
- Lab experiments
- Structured observations
- Structured interviews
All using large groups of people
What approaches are linked with the nomothetic approach?
Biological, Behaviourist, SLT and Cognitive
Why is the nomothetic approach considered scientific?
It uses rigorous, controlled and standardised experiments
✔️FORE
Why is the nomothetic approach considered valid?
Controlled methods
Why isn’t the nomothetic approach considered valid?
Loses sight of the individual
Why is the idiographic approach bad for treating disorders?
Time consuming
Why is the nomothetic approach good for treating disorders?
Prior knowledge of treatment - already been used and tested - know they work
Why is the nomothetic approach bad for treating disorders?
Drug treatments aren’t for everyone - Soomro et 70% effective
