Research Design & Ethics

Question 1

Scientists carefully select research design to ensure meaningful results are obtained

Question 2

Before conducting a study, psychologists first develop testable questions related to human behavior and mental processes

Question 3

Examples of suitable questions include exploring how beliefs in free will, personality traits related to aggression, and attitudes towards life after death impact individuals’ thoughts, emotions, and actions.

Question 4

Once the research question is established, psychologists choose the most appropriate research design from options such as Experimental, Correlational, Case Study, Naturalistic Observation, Twin Studies, Longitudinal, or Cross-Sectional studies.

Question 5

Factors considered include available resources (time and money), ethical considerations, and any potential limitations

Question 6

For instance, it would be unethical for a researcher studying child development to randomly assign children to nurturing or harsh environments as an experiment.

Question 7

After selecting the research design, psychologists determine how to measure the behavior or mental processes under investigation.

Question 8

They can use quantitative methods, where numerical data represent the degree of a variable (e.g., Likert scale for questionnaire responses)

Question 9

qualitative methods, which rely on narrative data (e.g., structured interviews to understand aggression causes and consequences)

Question 10

Quantitative and qualitative approaches offer valuable insights into human behavior and are often used to provide a comprehensive understanding.

Question 11

Researchers must be mindful of confounding variables, which are external factors that could influence study results. By carefully planning and conducting studies with diversity, equity, and inclusion in mind, psychologists aim to minimize biases and ensure representation of marginalized groups in research. This approach helps researchers have confidence in their findings and promotes the advancement of knowledge in psychology.

Question 12

Meta-analysis is a statistical method used to combine and analyze the findings from multiple studies on a particular topic. By pooling together data from various studies, researchers can reach a more comprehensive and reliable conclusion than what individual studies may provide.

Question 13

This approach allows for a deeper understanding of trends, patterns, and overall outcomes across different research efforts, enhancing the credibility and strength of the conclusions drawn. Meta-analysis is crucial in synthesizing research findings and shaping future studies in various fields, from medicine to social sciences, providing valuable insights that can guide decision-making and policy development.

Question 14

Ethics are essential in psychological research to ensure the well-being of both human and animal subjects. The American Psychological Association (APA) has established strict ethical standards that psychologists must adhere to when conducting studies.

Question 15

Research involving animals must have a clear scientific purpose to increase knowledge or understanding of the species. Animals must be treated humanely and acquired legally.

Question 16

Psychologists may choose to work with animals due to their simplicity, ease of control, and shorter life spans, making them ideal for certain types of research.

Question 17

In studies involving human participants, voluntary participation is crucial, and individuals should not be coerced into taking part. The purpose of the study must be communicated, and participants should not face significant physical or psychological risks.

Question 18

Personal information must be kept confidential, and participants should be debriefed after the study to clarify misconceptions. Ethical guidelines set forth by organizations like the APA emphasize obtaining informed consent, protecting participants from harm, maintaining confidentiality, and providing thorough debriefing to uphold the rights and well-being of research participants.