Research Methods:Scientific research Flashcards
Paradigm
a set of theoretical assumptions about a subject that is generally accepted by specialists. Kuhn (1970): argues a subject cannot be a science unless the majority of its workers agree with and work within a ‘global’ theory or paradigm. e.g.biologists all believe and accept evolution, importance of both nature and nurture. Psych is a pre-science. but actually may be a revolution as its had already gone thru many paradigm-shifts.
Order of scientific research
Theory, hypothesis, empirical data, others attempt to replicate findings, generalisation of findings, interpretation, peer review
Aim
a statement of what the researcher intends to find out in a research study
Hypotheses
a precise and testable statement about the assumed relationship between variables
Operationalisation
the variables are stated in a form that can be measured or easily tested
Directional hypothesis (one-tailed)
predicts the nature of the effect or relationship (i.e. increase/decrease or positive/negative relationship)
Non-directional hypothesis (two-tailed)
predicts that there will be an effect or a relationship, but the direction of it is not specified (normally used when there is contradictory evidence or when it is a new area with little/no previous research)
Null hypotheses
the null hypotheses is used when the research hypothesis has been rejected, concluding that any differences are due to chance
Directional hypothesis example
there will be a difference in the (operationalise DV) between experimental group who operationalise IV and control group who operationalise IV. The experimental group will …
Correlational hypothesis example
There will be a positive/negative correlation between the (operationalise one variable) and (operationalise the other variable). NOTE: there is no IV or DV
theory and hypothesis testing
provide understanding and exps by organising facts. provides basis for research. Test hypothesis in research - only accepted if its probability exceeds a predetermined significant level. Unfalsifiable - Freuds theory of unconscious mind. Falsifiable - biological approach fight/flight.3
Empirical methods
involves use of objective, quantitative observation in a systematically controlled, replicable situation, experimental and verifiable in order to test/refine a theory. Difficult to get objectivity as psych deals with living, conscious things. e.g. empirical - brain scans , not empirical - Little Hans
Replication
Repetition of a research study using the same procedure, findings should be repeated. If replicated validity is increased, generalisability is increased and practical application is improved.
generalisation
ability of the researcher to make a justified extension of their conclusions, applying them to members of the target population and other situations (ecological, population, temporal validity).
Overt behaviours
actions that are able to be observed. Can be internal but must be observed from responses. Can be studied using scientific methods.
Subjective, private experience
Private experience is produced by the individual mind. Internal and unique to each person. Cannot be accessed or replicated. E.g. pain, introspection, Freudian – unconscious mind.
Humanistic – unique, individual. Hallucinations and dreams. Can’t experience what they are hallucinating even if we know they are.
Peer review
Peer review is the practice of using independent experts to assess the quality and validity of scientific research and academic reports.
The process of P.R
Expert in same field selected, who works for the journal the paper has been submitted to. Read unpublished paper, look for mistakes. Publish, or review again, or reject.
The purpose of P.R
- Any research published must be of high quality
- Helps to allocate research funding – UK government currently spends £5.8 billion on research, so needs to go to worthwhile studies
- Cant be published in journal unless its peer reviewed. 4.Meant to spot fraudulent research, so that any research that is published can be trusted by the general public.
the problems of P.R
Isnt always possible to find expert, esp if its new area of research. Journals tend to publish studies w. positive results=publication bias. Once in the public domain the damage the damage is done. Peer review does not always spot the mistakes. It is not infallible.
Good thing about taking scientific approach
Makes studies within psych more creditable and taken more seriously. Respectability due to scientific status.
Can establish cause and effect – treatment, predict, prevent.
Theories provide general laws of behaviour and allow psych to progress as a science
bad things about taking scientific approach
reductive and deterministic. Part of being human is free will, and this is neglecting that.
Leads to neglect of vital subjective areas of psych e.g. mental illnesses.
Lab experiments – demand characteristics in artificial environment, because subject matter is human behaviour- lack of generalisability.
Ethical implication – findings from case studies cannot be replicated in a scientific experiment. These ethical restrictions may constrain psych research.
