Idiographic & Nomothetic

Question 1

Idiographic

Answer 1

Everyone is unique and should be studied in an individual way
Method of investigation- No general laws due to chance, free will and the uniqueness of individuals
Qualitative data, investigating individuals in a personal & detailed way
Strengths- More complete understanding of the individual
Satisfies aim of science- description & understanding of behaviour
Limitations- Difficult to generalise
Regarded as non-scientific, cannot be empirically tested
Largely neglects biology & genetic influences

Question 2

Nomothetic

Answer 2

Focuses on similarities between people
Attempts to establishes laws & generalisations about people
Method of investigation:
1. Classifying people into groups
2. Establishing principles
3. Establishing dimensions
Uses scientific & quantitative data, experiments and observation
Strength- Scientific: precise measurement, prediction and control of behaviour, controlled methods allowing replication & generalisation
Helped psychology become more scientific by developing laws & theories which can be empirically tested
Combines biological and social aspects
Limitations- Predictions made to groups many not apply to individuals
Losing sight of the ‘whole person’
Superficial understanding- same action different reason