Reporting psychological investigations

Question 1

Abstract

Answer 1

A brief (150-200 words) summary of the report. If a psychologist finds the title to be useful the next step is for them to read the abstract. This is a concise summary of the study covering the aims/hypothesis, method/procedure, results and conclusions.

Question 2

Introduction

Answer 2

Designed to introduce the reader to the topic area and background to the study. This is made up of the relevant theories and past studies/research relevant to the research question. This allows the reader to place the study in context. This will then allow the researcher to introduce the actual study and to explain the ideas behind it before going into the specific research hypotheses.

Question 3

Method

Answer 3

This section will describe how the study was conducted. It should have enough information to allow for replication. This serves two important functions. If the method cannot be replicated, then the findings cannot be checked to see if they are (1) reliable and (2) valid. This section should include the design, participants, apparatus/resources/materials, pilot study (if applicable) and procedure.

Question 4

Results

Answer 4

Will report the findings of the study clearly and accurately. It may report the findings in words, or use visual interpretations of the data in the form of graphs, tables, and so on. It usually also includes the results of inferential analyses to determine whether results are significant.

Question 5

Discussion

Answer 5

This section begins with a summary of the findings of the results before going on to offer explanations of the behaviours observed and may also consider the implications of the research and make suggestions for further research.

Question 6

References/Bibliography.

Answer 6

Complete details of all research documents, journals, internet resources and books that were mentioned and used for additional background research. An example of how this might appear for a book used would be:
Skinner, B.F. (1953). Science and Human Behaviour. New York: MacMillan
The format therefore is: Author (Year). Title of Book. Place: Publisher

Question 7

Appendices.

Answer 7

Comprised of a copy of all resources/materials used within the study, raw data and statistical calculations.