Research Methods- Peer review and psychology and the economy Flashcards
Peer review -
The assessment of scientific work by others who are specialists in the same field to ensure that any research intended for publication is of high quality.
Economy -
The state of a country or region in terms of the production and consumption of goods and services.
How is psychological research typically communicated within the scientific community and to the public?
Psychological research is communicated through conferences, textbooks, and most often via academic journals such as the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology or American Psychologist.
What is peer review, and who conducts it?
Peer review involves a small group of two or three experts in the field scrutinizing all aspects of the written investigation. These experts should be objective and unknown to the author.
What process must research undergo before being published in an academic journal?
Research must undergo a process of peer review before being published in an academic journal.
What are the main aims of peer review?
- To allocate research funding.
- To validate the quality and relevance of research.
- To suggest amendments or improvements.
How does peer review contribute to research funding?
Independent peer evaluation helps decide whether to award funding for proposed research projects, often coordinated by government-run organizations like the Medical Research Council.Independent peer evaluation helps decide whether to award funding for proposed research projects, often coordinated by government-run organizations like the Medical Research Council.
What can reviewers suggest during peer review?
Reviewers may suggest minor revisions to improve the report or, in extreme cases, recommend that the work be withdrawn from publication.
What aspects of research are assessed during peer review?
All elements of research are assessed, including the formulation of hypotheses, methodology, statistical tests, and conclusions.
What is a criticism of the anonymity of peer reviewers?
While anonymity promotes honest appraisals, some reviewers may use it to criticize rival researchers, especially when competing for limited research funding.
What is publication bias, and how does it affect psychological research?
Publication bias occurs when journals prefer to publish significant or positive findings, potentially ignoring research that doesn’t meet these criteria. This can create a false impression of the current state of psychology.
How might peer review suppress groundbreaking research?
Peer review may favor research that aligns with mainstream theories and suppress innovative research that challenges established views, slowing the rate of scientific progress.
What are the economic implications of psychological research?
Psychological research can influence, benefit, or devalue economic prosperity by addressing issues like childcare arrangements and mental health treatments.
What economic impact does mental illness have, according to a government report?
Absence from work due to mental illness costs the economy an estimated £15 billion annually, with a third of absences caused by mild to moderate mental health disorders.
How has attachment research influenced modern parenting and the economy?
Research showing that both parents are equally capable of providing emotional support has promoted flexible working arrangements, allowing families to maximize income and contribute more effectively to the economy.
How does psychological research into mental illness benefit the economy?
Research into the causes and treatments of mental illness helps individuals manage conditions effectively, return to work, and reduce economic losses from work absences.
What treatments are available for mental health disorders?
Treatments include psychotherapeutic drugs (e.g., SSRIs for depression and OCD), antianxiety drugs, and psychotherapies like systematic desensitization and CBT. GPs can also refer patients for these treatments.
How do flexible working arrangements benefit the economy?
Flexible working arrangements allow parents to share childcare responsibilities, enabling them to work more hours and contribute more effectively to the economy.
