Key terms Flashcards
Objective
Research is based on observable facts and is free from bias (1). Research findings are not affected by feelings or opinion or subjective interpretation (1)
Subjective
Research is based on feelings and interpretation (1). The research findings can be biassed (1).
Free will
The idea that we are free to make choices - we are self determining (1). These choices are not influenced by internal or external factors such as biology and upbringing (1)
Determinism
An individual’s behaviour is shaped or controlled by internal or external factors rather than an individual’s will to do something (1). Examples include biological determinism, psychic determinism, and environmental determinism (1).
Reductionism
Explaining a complex phenomenon with a simple explanation (1). All behaviour can be explained by biology eg. Low levels of serotonin causes depression (1).
Nature
Behaviour is determined by biology (1). Eg. genetic inheritance, the structure and function of the brain, hormones and neurotransmitters (1).
Holism
The opposite of reductionism. This holistic approach suggests that to explain behaviour we need to look at it as a whole integrated experience (1). For example, biology alone cannot explain depression, environmental factors also play a role (1).
Nurture
Behaviour is determined by environmental influences and the way we are conditioned to behave (1). For example, being rewarded and punished for our behaviour and observing and imitating role models (1).
Idiographic research
Research focuses on the study of one person or small groups and emphasises the uniqueness of individuals (1). Research into individual behaviour cannot be generalised to the whole population as is unique to that individual (1).
Nomothetic research
Research involves the study of large groups of people that seeks to develop laws/theories about their behaviour (1). If sample groups are representative of the general population, then research findings can be generalised to the whole population (1).
