Research in Psychology - Research methodology Flashcards
Definition of Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes
Artifacts
Results associated with the effect of unforeseen factors
Behavior
Observable by independent observer
Mental processes
Lies behind behavior and can not easily be observed
Nomothetic approach
Deriving universal laws
Quantitative research
Operates with variables, results are numbers
Variables
A characteristic that is objectively registered and quantified
Construct
A theoretically defined variable
operationalization
Expressing a construct in terms of observable behavior
Experimental studies
Involves IV and DV
Independent variable
Manipulated variable
Dependent variable
Affected by change in IV
Cause and effect inferences
DV affected by change in IV
Correlational studies
Relationship between variables quantified
Descriptive studies
Approaching variables separately
Qualitative research
In-depth study of particular phenomenon
Idiographic approach
In-depth analysis of specific phenomenon
Sample
Group of individuals taking part in study
Sampling
Process of finding and recruiting sample
Credibility
How well does the research reflect reality
Bias
Things making research less credible
Generalizability
To what extent can results be applied beyond sample and setting
