Research Methods in the Experimental Analysis of Behavior Flashcards
Observational Research
A method where behavior is observed and recorded in its natural or controlled environment.
Naturalistic Observation
Observing behavior in its natural environment without manipulation.
Laboratory Observation
Observing behavior in a controlled setting, such as a lab.
Case Study
An in-depth study of a single individual or small group.
Survey Research
A research method using questionnaires or interviews to gather data from large groups.
Correlational Research
A method examining the relationship between two variables but does not imply causation.
Experiment
A controlled test where one variable is manipulated to observe its effect on another.
Independent Variable (IV)
The variable that is manipulated in an experiment.
Dependent Variable (DV)
The variable that is measured in response to the manipulation.
Control Group
A group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment, serving as a baseline.
Experimental Group
A group in an experiment that receives the treatment or manipulation.
Random Assignment
A method ensuring participants have an equal chance of being in either experimental or control groups.
A-B Design
A simple experimental design with one baseline and one treatment phase.
A-B-A-B Reversal Design
A design where baseline and treatment phases are implemented twice to establish causality.
Changing-Criterion Design
A shaping-based design in which reinforcement is gradually adjusted toward a final behavioral goal.
Multiple-Baseline Design
A design with multiple baseline phases across subjects, behaviors, or settings to examine treatment effects.
Baseline Phase
The phase in an experiment where no treatment is given, establishing a baseline for comparison.
Treatment Phase
The phase in an experiment where a treatment or intervention is introduced.
Continuous Recording
A method of recording all instances of a behavior during an observation period.
Observation Period
A predetermined time frame in which behavior is observed and recorded.
Product or Outcome Recording
A method where researchers record the final outcome or product of a behavior rather than the behavior itself.
Interval Recording
A recording method that involves measuring whether behavior occurs during specific intervals.
Standard or Classic Maze
A traditional maze used in behavioral experiments, often to test learning and memory.
T-maze
A maze shaped like the letter ‘T,’ used to study decision-making in animals.
Y-maze
A maze shaped like the letter ‘Y,’ used in learning and memory research.
Radial Arm Maze
A maze with multiple arms radiating from a central hub, used to study spatial learning.
Morris Water Maze
A water-based maze used to study spatial memory and learning in rodents.
Skinner Box
(AKA Operant Chamber) A controlled environment used by B.F. Skinner to study operant conditioning in animals, where responses are reinforced with rewards or punishments.
Scientific Research Article
A published report presenting scientific research findings.
Abstract Section
The section summarizing the key points of a research article, including purpose, methods, results, and conclusions.
Introduction Section
The section outlining the background, rationale, and hypotheses of a study.
Method Section
The section detailing the participants, procedures, and materials used in a study.
Results Section
The section presenting the findings of the study, often with statistical analyses.
Discussion Section
The section interpreting results, discussing implications, and suggesting future research directions.
Puzzle Box
A device used by Edward Thorndike to study learning in animals, where they had to solve a problem (e.g., pulling a lever) to escape and receive a reward.
Dependent Variable
The variable that is measured in an experiment to determine the effect of the independent variable.
Errors
A measure of learning that assesses the number of mistakes made during a task.
Frequency
A measure of the total number of times a behavior occurs within a given observation period. It does not take time into account beyond the general observation window.
Intensity
A measure of the strength or magnitude of a response.
Duration/Run Time/Speed
A measure of how long a behavior lasts or the speed at which it is performed.
Latency
A measure of the time delay between a stimulus and the initiation of a response.
Topography
A measure of the form or structure of a behavior.
Rate
A measure of how frequently a behavior occurs over a unit of time.
Fluency
A measure of the accuracy and speed of a behavior, often used in skill-based learning.
Animal Models of Behavior
Using animals in research to study behavioral processes due to similarities with human physiology.
Disease Models
Animals used as models to study human diseases, such as diabetes or cancer, to develop treatments.
Safety Testing
Testing new substances on animals to ensure they are safe for humans, other animals, and the environment.
3Rs Principle
A framework for ethical animal research: Replace, Reduce, and Refine animal use in studies.
Replacement
Using alternatives like computer models or cell cultures instead of live animals when possible.
Reduction
Minimizing the number of animals used in research while maintaining scientific integrity.
Refinement
Modifying experimental procedures to minimize animal suffering and improve welfare.
Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)
A committee that oversees the ethical treatment of animals in research and ensures compliance with regulations.
Human Models of Behavior
Using human participants in research to study learning, cognition, and behavior.
Informed Consent
The process of informing participants about a study and obtaining their voluntary agreement.
Confidentiality
Ensuring participant data remains private and not disclosed without consent.
Right to Withdraw
Participants’ right to leave a study at any time without penalty.
Debriefing
Providing participants with information about the study’s purpose after their participation ends.
Deception in Research
Allowing minimal deception in research if necessary, provided participants are debriefed afterward.
Institutional Review Board (IRB)
A board that reviews and approves research involving human subjects to ensure ethical compliance.
