scientific processes Flashcards
experimental method
1 of the major influences of this approach is the therapy that has developed. Carl Rogers has developed his client-centered therapy based on it. If the client feels like they can say what they want, then they can be honest and this honesty is important in realizing physical barriers to becoming congruent.
operationalisation
Clearly defining variables into measurable factors
lab experiments
Conducted in a controlled environment allowing the establishment of causality
field experiments
Conducted in naturalistic environments where researchers manipulate IV
natural experiment
Independent variable differs naturally
quasi experiments
Unable to freely manipulate the IV or randomly allocate variables
natural/quasi experiments AO3
High ecological validity No demand characteristics Less control Replication Ethics Sample bias
lab experiment AO3
High degree of control Replication Cause and effect Isolation of variables Experimenter bias Problems operationalising DV and IV Low external validity Demand characteristics
questionnaires
Record answers to a pre-set list of questions
Closed questions- yes/no
Open questions- answer in own words
Structured- interviewer asks a particular set of predefined questions.
Unstructured- guide used by an interviewer
constructing questionnaires
Aims- helps question writing
Length- short and to the point
Previous- use previous experiments that were successful
question formation- concise and unambiguous
Pilot study- provide detailed feedback
Measurement scale
questionnaires AO3
Allows predictions Allows quantification pf relationships No manipulation Quantification problems Cause and effect Extraneous relationships Only works for linear relationships
case studies
In-depth, detailed investigations of 1 individual or a small group. Usually include biographical details, behavioural information and experiences of interest
Allow researchers to examine individuals in great depth
case studies AO3
Rich detail The only possible method to use Useful for theory contradiction No representative Researcher bias Reliance on memory
observation techniques
Observations involve watching and recording behaviour
Participant observation- involves observers becoming actively involved in the situation being studied to gain a more ‘hands-on perspective
Non-participant observation- involves researchers not become actively involved in the behaviour being studied
Overt observation- where participant are aware they are being observed
Covert observation- where participants are unaware they are being observed
correlational analysis
Experiments looks for a difference between 2 conditions of an IV, while correlational studies involve measuring the strength and direction of relationships between co-variables.
Positive correlation- occurs when 1 co-variable increases as another increases
Negative correlation- occurs when 1 co-variables increases as the other decreases
sampling procedure
Event sampling- counting the number of times a behaviour occurs in target individuals(s).
Time sampling- counting behaviour in a set time frame
inter-observer reliability
Occurs when independent observers code behaviour in the same way and lessens the chance of observer bias., where an observer sees and records behaviour in a subjective way.
Needs to be established before an observation begins and is easier to achieve if behavioural categories are clearly defined and do not overlap with each other
observation design
There are several ways in which data can be gathered in naturalistic observations, including visual recordings like videos and photographs.
Behavioural categories- observers agree on a grid or coding sheet on which to record the behaviour being studied. Should reflect what is being studied.
