LU2: Explain scientific approach Flashcards
What are the 3 sets of interrelated goals in psychology
- Measurement and description
2.Understanding and prediction
- Application and control
Define Measurement and Description
Develop measurement techniques to describe behaviour clearly and precisely
Define Understanding and prediction
- Hypothesis- a statement about a relationship between 2 or more variables
- Variables- measurable conditions, characteristics etc controlled and managed in a study
Define application and control
The information gathered can be of practical value to help and solve problems.
Once understood can then exert more control over it
What is the aim of scientific method
To make observations of phenomena in order to collect data and improve the quality of human lives
How do scientists observe nature
in a systematic way and follow rules
What does it mean when saying that psychology is
“ empirical “
It means it uses direct observation to gather knowledge
What are the goals of the science of psychology
- To describe how people and animals behave
- To understand and explain the causes of behaviour
- To predict how people and animals will behave in certain conditions
- To control behaviour through knowledge and control of its causes