Research Methods Midterm Ch. 2

Question 1

Theory

Answer 1

Integrated set of principles that explains and predicts many, but not all, observed relationships within a given domain of inquiry.
Theories can be used to generate specific ideas that can be tested through research (i.e., deductive reasoning)

Question 2

Falsiability

Answer 2

A good theory should produce falsifiable research predictions or research hypotheses.
A research hypothesis may:
Posit the existence/presence of something (i.e., something is or is not the case)
Posit the existence of a relationship between variables of interest.
Posit the specific direction of that relationship.

Question 3

Null Hypothesis Significant Testing (NHST),

Answer 3

In Null Hypothesis Significant Testing (NHST), researchers try to disprove a relevant hypothesis.
For example:
Research Hypothesis: Group 1 is better at math than Group 2.
Statistical Hypotheses:
Null Hypothesis: Mean of G1 = Mean of G2
Alternative Hypotheses: Mean of G1 > Mean of G2, Mean of G1 < Mean of G2
P-value: The probability of finding the differences in the sample if the null is true in the population.
Conventions: p < .05, p < .01

Question 4

Types of Research Idea Tactics

Answer 4

Problem-focused research:
Testing way to solve real-world problems
Finding contributing factor to real-world problems
Inductive method:
Subjecting a “hunch” to scientific testing.
Tie your intuition into existing research.
Work directly off existing research:
Find limiting conditions of existing theories.
Explain conflicting findings.

Question 5

Research that led to ethical considerations

Answer 5

The medical atrocities of World War II
The Tuskegee syphilis project
The Willowbrook hepatitis project
Stanley Milgram’s obedience studies of the 1960’s

Question 6

Nuremburg Code

Answer 6

Ethical Considerations:
Participants should consent to participate in research.
Participants should be fully informed of the nature of the research project.
Risks should be avoided whenever possible.
Participants should be protected against risks to the greatest extent possible.
Projects should be conducted by scientifically qualified personnel.
Participants have the right to discontinue participation at any time.

Question 7

5 General Principles for Conduct

Answer 7

A. Benevolence and nonmaleficence
We strive to benefit and take care to do no harm.
B. Fidelity and Responsibility
We establish relationships of trust and take responsibility for our actions.
C. Integrity
Psychologists seek to promote truthfulness and honesty in science.
D. Justice
All people should have equal access to and benefit from contributions of psychology.
E. Respect for People’s Rights and Dignities
Psychologists respect privacy and confidentiality.

Question 8

Coercion

Answer 8

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Question 9

Deception

Answer 9

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Question 10

Debriefing

Answer 10

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