PSY 201 Flashcards
What is science?
Science is the systematic study of the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis to understand how things work. It involves forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, gathering evidence, and drawing conclusions based on data.
What makes psychological research scientific?
Psychological research is considered scientific because it follows the principles of the scientific method, which ensures that the investigation is systematic, objective, and replicable.
Explain 5 key characteristics of an ideal scientist
- PRECISION: Precision involves being accurate and exact in conducting experiments, measuring data, and reporting findings. They avoid vague or ambiguous conclusions, and pay close attention to the details to ensure their findings are reliable.
- SKEPTICISM: Scientific skepticism is the attitude of questioning and doubting claims, especially those that are not supported by robust evidence. An ideal scientist does not accept findings at face value but critically evaluates the evidence, methodology, and logic behind them. This skepticism helps prevent the acceptance of flawed or unverified ideas and ensures that only well-supported conclusions are adopted.
- RELIANCE ON EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE: An ideal scientist bases their conclusions on empirical evidence rather than assumptions or theoretical speculation. This reliance ensures that scientific knowledge is grounded in observable, measurable reality and can be tested and validated.
- OPENNESS: Openness refers to a willingness to share findings, methods, and data with the broader scientific community and being open to critique and feedback. An ideal scientist remains transparent about their research and welcomes challenges to their work.
4 primary rules that define and guide scientific methods of research
- EMPIRICISM: Empiricism refers to the reliance on observable, measurable evidence as the foundation for drawing conclusions. Scientific knowledge is based on data gathered from the real world through observation, experimentation, or experience, rather than on abstract reasoning or theoretical speculation.
- DETERMINISM: Determinism is the concept that all events are determined by previously existing causes. It suggests that everything is subject to the laws of cause and effect, leaving no room for randomness or free will.
- PARSIMONY: In scientific research, parsimony refers to the principle that, when presented with competing hypotheses or theories, the simplest one (i.e., the one with the fewest assumptions) is preferred. This is also known as Occam’s Razor.
- TESTABILITY: Testability is the property of a hypothesis or theory that allows it to be tested through experimentation or observation. A testable idea can be supported or refuted by empirical evidence. A theory is considered scientific if it can be tested and potentially falsified.
3 main types of scientific investigation
- DESCRIPTIVE INVESTIGATION: This involves observing and describing characteristics or behaviors of a subject without influencing it. Researchers collect data about a phenomenon to understand what is happening. No manipulation of variables occurs. For example, observing and recording the distribution of different species in an ecosystem.
- COMPARATIVE INVESTIGATION: This type of investigation compares two or more groups or conditions to identify differences. Researchers look for correlations or contrasts between the variables being compared, but there’s no control over variables. For example, comparing plant growth in different soil types to see which one fosters better growth.
- EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION: This investigation involves manipulating one or more independent variables to observe the effect on a dependent variable, usually under controlled conditions. Researchers actively intervene, establish a control group, and draw conclusions about cause and effect. For example, testing how different amounts of sunlight affect plant growth.
What is a theory?
A theory is a well-substantiated explanation that organizes facts, principles, and findings to explain a particular phenomenon. It is based on extensive evidence and can generate predictions that can be tested (e.g., the theory of evolution).
What is a concept?
A concept is an abstract idea or mental representation of something, used to simplify complex phenomena (e.g., “intelligence” or “health”). Concepts are building blocks for theories, providing the terminology and basic ideas that frame research.
What is a construct?
A construct is a specifically defined concept created for scientific measurement, often used for intangible or abstract attributes (e.g., “self-esteem” or “anxiety”). Constructs are measured indirectly through indicators or scales and play a central role in testing theories.
