Research Methods in Psychology Flashcards
The Scientific Method
A systematic process used to investigate questions, test hypotheses, and build knowledge.
Important Elements of the Scientific Method
Skepticism, Empiricism, Falsifiability, Peer Review
Skepticism in Science
A questioning attitude that requires evidence before accepting claims; avoids accepting conclusions without critical evaluation.
Empiricism in Science
Knowledge is gained through systematic observation and measurement rather than intuition or personal belief.
Falsifiability in Science
A scientific claim must be testable and capable of being proven wrong with evidence.
Peer Review in Science
The process where other experts evaluate research before publication to ensure quality, accuracy, and adherence to scientific standards.
Pseudoscience
Activities and beliefs that are claimed to be scientific by their proponents (and may appear to be scientific at first glance) but are not. Unlike true science, pseudoscience does not utilize skepticism, empiricism, falsifiability, and/or peer review.
Research Question
It clearly defines what the researcher aims to study, often identifying the variables of interest and their potential relationship.
Research Hypothesis
A testable statement or prediction derived from a research question. It provides a specific, measurable expectation about the relationship between variables.
Scientific Theory
Well-substantiated explanations of phenomena that are based on a body of evidence from multiple studies. Theories are broader than hypotheses and often guide the development of both research questions and hypotheses.
Nonexperimental Methods
Variables are observed as they occur naturally (they are not manipulated by the researcher).
Because they do not control for extraneous variables, statements about causation cannot be made.
Experimental methods
The researcher manipulates the first variable of interest (independent variable) and then observes the response (dependent variable).
All extraneous variables are kept constant.
Allows for statements of causation to be made.
Behavior
Anything an organism does that can be measured.
Measurement
The assignment of scores to individuals so that the scores represent some characteristic of the individuals.
Variable
Any characteristic or condition that can vary or be manipulated, controlled, or measured in research.
Must have at least two levels (values).
Conceptual Definition
Explains the meaning of a variable or concept in theoretical terms, describing what it represents abstractly or generally.
Operational Definition
A definition of a variable in terms of how it is precisely measured, such as using self-reports, behavioral observations, or physiological measurements.
Self-Report Measures
Measures in which participants provide information about themselves, typically through questionnaires or interviews.
Behavioral Measures
Measures that involve observing and recording behavior, either in structured tasks or in natural settings.
Physiological Measures
Measures that involve recording physiological processes, such as heart rate, hormone levels, or brain activity.
Converging Operations
The use of multiple operational definitions to measure the same construct, providing evidence that the construct is being measured effectively.
Psychology
The scientific study of behavior and mental processes, including how individuals think, feel, and act.
Science
A systematic approach to acquiring knowledge through observation and experimentation to understand natural phenomena.
Intuition
Relying on instincts, emotions, or a gut feeling to make judgments without relying on facts or rational thought.
Authority
Accepting information as true because it comes from a respected source or figure, such as a teacher, parent, or expert.
Rationalism
Using logic and reasoning to arrive at conclusions based on premises; it involves structured thinking rather than observation.
Empiricism
Acquiring knowledge through observation and experience; it emphasizes the importance of evidence obtained from the senses.
The Three Goals of Behavioral Science
To describe, predict, and explain behavior.
Basic Research
Research conducted to enhance general knowledge without a specific practical application in mind.
Applied Research
Research aimed at solving practical problems and improving quality of life by applying scientific findings.
