Lecture 1 Flashcards
Why do we need science?
Because people are often guilty of faulty thinking-failure to consider alternative explanations (confirmation bias), and heuristics.
What is empirical evidence?
Evidence gained through experience and observation (not enough on it’s own to be scientific)
What does it mean to be systematic?
Performed consistently according to specific rules or conditions (objectivity).
What can stats help us do?
Determine whether small differences are random or real.
What is falsification?
Trying to disprove claims or beliefs (including our own)
What is a variable?
Any characteristic or factor that can vary/change. Any measure, event, or state that can vary between people or within oneself.
What are some psychological variables?
Self-esteem, stress, happiness, intelligence, hormones, etc.
How do we avoid the social desirability bias?
Carefully word questions, ensure anonymity and confidentiality, overclaiming questionnaire.
What can researchers do to limit the observer effect?
Disguise self/cameras, disguise purpose
What is habituation?
The process by which animals eventually ignore the researcher due to repeated stimulus.
What are the steps of the scientific approach?
Systematic observation, gathering empirical evidence, and then use statistics.
