Statistics Flashcards
What are the two types of approaches to making sense of psychological phenomena?
P-Grammar and M-Grammar
P-Grammar is person-focused and idiographic, while M-Grammar is molecule-focused and nomothetic.
What does RDA stand for in the context of psychological methodologies?
RDA2, RDA2, and RDA3
These are specific methods that will be learned over the next three years.
Define epistemology in the context of psychological approaches.
A theory of knowledge
Epistemology concerns how we understand and interpret knowledge in psychology.
Define ontology in the context of psychological approaches.
What we believe we know to be true
Ontology refers to the nature of reality and existence as understood in psychology.
What does P-Grammar focus on?
Person-focused
P-Grammar is associated with social sciences and idiographic approaches.
What does M-Grammar focus on?
Molecule-focused
M-Grammar is associated with natural sciences and nomothetic approaches.
True or False: The methodologies used in psychology are independent of one’s perspective.
False
The methodologies and theories formed are determined by one’s perspective.
Fill in the blank: P-Grammar is associated with _______ sciences.
social
P-Grammar emphasizes individual cases and qualitative methods.
Fill in the blank: M-Grammar is associated with _______ sciences.
natural
M-Grammar emphasizes general laws and quantitative methods.
What is the primary assumption of the nomothetic approach in psychology?
For things to be understood, they need to be observable and measurable
This approach leads to laws that are predictable and generalizable.
What does the nomothetic approach assume about mental processes?
Mental processes can be explained in universal terms and applied to all subjects
According to the nomothetic approach, what is the focus of psychological study?
The individual, rather than the (social) group
True or False: The nomothetic approach considers psychological processes to be observable and measurable.
True
Fill in the blank: The nomothetic approach is driven by _______ assumptions.
[positivist]
What does the idiographic approach in psychology emphasize?
The importance of social and cultural context in understanding psychological processes
This approach suggests that universal laws are not appropriate due to the variability of psychological phenomena.
What are the key assumptions of the idiographic approach?
- Psychological phenomena vary from time to time
- Psychological phenomena are culturally determined
- Understanding psychological processes requires understanding the intention behind them
- Psychological processes are influenced by social phenomena
These assumptions highlight the necessity of considering social influence in psychological understanding.
True or False: The idiographic approach supports the idea of universal psychological laws.
False
The idiographic approach argues that universal laws are not appropriate for understanding individual psychological processes.
Fill in the blank: The idiographic approach asserts that psychological processes are influenced by _______.
[social phenomena]
This emphasizes the need to consider social influences in psychological studies.
What must one understand to comprehend psychological processes according to the idiographic approach?
The intention behind the psychological processes
Understanding intention is crucial in this approach to grasp how psychological phenomena manifest.
What are the two methodological approaches mentioned?
Qualitative (discursive) and Quantitative
Qualitative is text-based, while Quantitative emphasizes empirical measurement.
What does the qualitative approach emphasize?
Analysis of meaning and understanding of social context
It does not allow for generalizations or simple explanations.
What is the main focus of the quantitative approach?
Empirical measurement of behavior to establish patterns and laws
It aims for universal and generalizable conclusions.
Fill in the blank: The qualitative approach deals with _______.
qualities
Fill in the blank: The quantitative approach deals with _______.
quantities
True or False: The qualitative approach offers simple or reductionist explanations.
False
True or False: The quantitative approach considers social context.
False
What does the qualitative approach require for understanding behavior?
An understanding of social context
This approach provides complex explanations.
What type of explanations does the quantitative approach offer?
Simple explanations of behavior
It often reduces laws to the individual level.
What is the purpose of experiments in research?
To measure how different circumstances affect behaviour in a controlled environment to address a hypothesis.
What type of data is typically collected in experiments?
Quantitative data, e.g., reaction time to a stimulus, accuracy of memory or perceptual discrimination.
How is quantitative data analysed in experiments?
Using statistical tests that permit inferential testing of a hypothesis.
Which principles underpin the analysis of behaviour in experiments?
The principles of generality, determinism, predictability, and simplicity.
Fill in the blank: Experiments are underpinned by the principles of _______.
[generality, determinism, predictability, simplicity]
True or False: Experiments aim to provide complex explanations for data.
False
What does it mean for behaviour to be deterministic in the context of experiments?
It means that behaviour is predictable based on certain circumstances.
What is the most likely explanation for data according to experimental principles?
The simplest explanation is most likely the correct one.
What is a survey?
A means of collecting large amounts of data from participants using self-report questionnaires
Surveys are commonly used in various fields, including psychology, to gather information on individual differences.
In which field is survey research primarily situated?
Psychometrics
Psychometrics focuses on measuring psychological constructs and individual differences, such as intelligence.
What does survey research measure?
Individual variation on a known psychological construct
Surveys can also help define constructs and their factors.
What types of statistical techniques are used in survey analysis?
Descriptive and inferential techniques
Examples include correlation and regression analyses.
True or False: Surveys can only explore known psychological constructs.
False
Surveys can also help define constructs and their factors.
Fill in the blank: Surveys are used to collect data through _______.
self-report questionnaires
Self-report questionnaires allow participants to provide their own answers and insights.
What is the purpose of using surveys in psychological research?
To explore or explain individual differences
This can help in understanding variations in psychological constructs.
What are methods that are interpretive of psychological phenomena?
Methods that include the influences of time and social context
These methods recognize the complexity of human experience and the importance of context in understanding psychological phenomena.
What is the principle behind lived experience in interpretive methods?
Lived experience has meaning and intentionality and cannot be simplified
This principle emphasizes the need for understanding experiences within a broader social context.
What types of data are used in interpretive psychological methods?
Data include:
* Interviews
* Self-reports
* Biography
* Visual data
These data types help address complex questions and issues not suitable for other methods.
What does analysis in interpretive methods involve?
Making sense of discourse through the aggregation of themes into complex narratives
This process allows for a deeper understanding of the psychological phenomena being studied.
True or False: Interpretive methods in psychology can simplify lived experiences.
False
Interpretive methods emphasize the complexity and context of lived experiences rather than simplifying them.
What is deontological ethics?
A rule-based ethical philosophy where the correctness of an action lies in itself, not its consequences.
E.g. lying is always considered wrong, regardless of the outcome.
In consequentialism, how is the correctness of an action determined?
By its intended consequences.
E.g. lying is deemed acceptable if done for the ‘right’ reasons, such as protecting someone from harm.
What does virtue ethics emphasize?
Character and practical wisdom.
It focuses on what kind of person one should be.
Fill in the blank: In virtue ethics, an honest person would not lie because doing so would not feel _______.
right
True or False: In deontological ethics, the outcome of an action is the primary factor in determining its morality.
False
What ethical philosophy suggests that lying can be good if it is done for the right reasons?
Consequentialism
Fill in the blank: Deontological ethics is also known as _______-based ethics.
rule
What is applied when ethical problems arise?
A cost-benefit analysis
This analysis evaluates the negative consequences of research against its positive outcomes.
What are the benefits in the context of ethical decision making?
The potentially positive consequences of the research for the participants or society
Benefits often extend beyond individual participants to societal impacts.
What does cost-benefit analysis provide?
A framework for making ethical decisions
This framework helps to systematically evaluate the implications of research decisions.
What type of judgments does cost-benefit analysis involve?
Subjective judgments about costs and benefits
These judgments can vary between individuals based on personal values and perspectives.
True or False: Consequences of research can always be anticipated.
False
Examples such as Zimbardo and Milgram illustrate the unpredictability of research outcomes.
What is the first step in the ethical decision-making model?
Generate alternative decisions
This step involves brainstorming various options to address the ethical issue at hand.
What comes after generating alternative decisions in the ethical decision-making model?
Enumerate consequences of making each decision
This step requires assessing the potential outcomes of each alternative decision.
What is the final step in the ethical decision-making model?
Implement the decision
This involves putting the chosen decision into action.
True or False: The ethical decision-making model includes a step for making the decision.
True
Making the decision is a critical part of the ethical decision-making process.
What does the BPS Code of ethics outline?
Four main principles to guide ethical behaviour:
* Respect
* Competence
* Responsibility
* Integrity
The BPS Code of Ethics provides a framework for ethical conduct in psychology.
What is the first principle of the BPS Code of ethics?
Respect
This principle emphasizes the importance of valuing the dignity and worth of individuals.
What is the second principle of the BPS Code of ethics?
Competence
This principle requires psychologists to maintain high standards of professional competence.
What is the third principle of the BPS Code of ethics?
Responsibility
This principle involves the obligation to act in the best interest of clients and society.
What is the fourth principle of the BPS Code of ethics?
Integrity
This principle stresses the importance of honesty and transparency in professional practices.
What is one key ethical principle related to respect?
General Respect
This includes acknowledging individual, cultural, and role differences.
What should be avoided to maintain ethical practices?
Unfair / prejudiced practices
This ensures fairness and equality in treatment.
What is essential to protect clients’ information?
Privacy and Confidentiality
This involves safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access.
What is necessary for ethical record keeping?
Consent
Clients must give permission for their information to be recorded and stored.
What is a critical component of informed consent?
Understanding of nature, purpose, and consequences
Clients should fully grasp what their participation entails.
When is withholding information acceptable?
When informed consent cannot be obtained
This may occur in specific circumstances where disclosure may harm the client.
What right do clients have regarding their participation?
Right to withdraw
Clients can choose to discontinue their participation at any time.
What must be considered regarding a client’s capacity?
Capacity for informed consent
It is crucial to assess if the client can understand and agree to the consent.
What ethical action must be taken regarding data after a client withdraws?
Destruction of data
Any personal data must be securely destroyed to protect client confidentiality.
What should professionals develop regarding ethics?
A comprehensive awareness of ethics
This includes understanding the ethical implications of their actions and decisions.
How should ethical awareness be integrated into professional activities?
By incorporating ethical considerations in decision-making processes
This ensures that professionals act responsibly and ethically in their work.
What is a key aspect of ethical decision making?
Recognising that ethical dilemmas will arise
Professionals must be prepared to face and address these dilemmas appropriately.
What is an important responsibility for professionals in ethical practice?
Accept responsibility
Professionals are accountable for their ethical decisions and actions.
What should professionals recognize about their competence?
The limits of their competence
Practicing within these limits is crucial for ethical practice.
What should professionals do when their competence is impaired?
Refrain from practice
This ensures that they do not compromise the quality of care or service.
What action should professionals take if they recognize their impairment?
Monitor their own lifestyle to remain alert to signs of impairment
Awareness of personal well-being is essential for maintaining professional competence.
When should professionals seek consultation and supervision?
When indicated
This can help them navigate ethical dilemmas and improve their practice.
What areas should professionals engage in?
Only those within their skills, obtaining, and education
This guards against unethical practice and promotes professional integrity.
What is a fundamental ethical principle regarding responsibility?
General Responsibility
General responsibility includes avoiding harm to clients and maintaining professional integrity.
What should be avoided to maintain ethical responsibility?
Personal and professional misconduct
Such misconduct could bring the Society into disrepute.
What is a key consideration for researchers regarding their own safety?
Be mindful of potential risks to yourself
Researchers should assess the risks they may face during their work.
What ethical consideration should be taken for research participants?
Protection of Research Participants
This includes ensuring their safety and well-being during the research process.
From whose standpoint should all research be considered?
Participants
Researchers must prioritize the views and welfare of participants.
What should researchers refrain from using as compensation?
Financial compensation
It is advised to avoid financial incentives to ensure ethical standards.
What type of approval is necessary before conducting research?
Considered and objective approval of independent advisors
This ensures that research meets ethical standards.
What should clients be informed of during the first contact?
They may decline to answer any questions
This respects the autonomy and comfort of clients.
What is an important step to take after research is conducted?
Debrief
Debriefing helps participants understand the study and its outcomes.
What are the four main principles outlined in the BPS Code of human research ethics (2021)?
- Respect for the autonomy, privacy and dignity of individuals and communities
- Scientific integrity
- Social Responsibility
- Maximizing benefit and minimizing harm
These principles guide ethical decision-making in research involving human participants.
Define ‘Respect for the autonomy, privacy, and dignity of individuals and communities’.
This principle emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and honoring the rights and freedoms of research participants.
It includes obtaining informed consent and ensuring confidentiality.
What does ‘Scientific integrity’ refer to in research ethics?
It refers to the commitment to conducting research honestly, transparently, and without fabrication or falsification of data.
This principle ensures the credibility and reliability of research findings.
Explain the principle of ‘Social Responsibility’ in the context of research ethics.
This principle involves considering the broader impact of research on society and ensuring that research contributes positively to the community.
Researchers are encouraged to address societal issues and promote welfare.
Fill in the blank: The principle of _______ emphasizes maximizing benefits and minimizing harm in research.
Maximizing benefit and minimizing harm
What is the main characteristic of Probability Sampling?
It is possible to determine the probability that a participant will be sampled from a population
List the types of Probability Sampling.
- Random
- Systematic
- Stratified
- Cluster
- Multi-stage sampling
What is a key feature of Non-Probability Sampling?
Members of a population may not have an equal probability of being sampled
List the types of Non-Probability Sampling.
- Convenience/Opportunity
- Quota
- Snowball
True or False: In Probability Sampling, every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected.
True
Fill in the blank: In Non-Probability Sampling, the sampling methods include _______.
[Convenience/Opportunity, Quota, Snowball]
Which sampling method allows for the calculation of selection probability?
Probability Sampling
What is a random sampling method?
Select participants at random (e.g., phone book)
Random sampling ensures that every individual has an equal chance of being selected.
What does systematic sampling involve?
Select every ‘nth’ person from the population
This method can help ensure a spread of participants across the population.
Define stratified sampling
Similar to systematic but tries to reflect the characteristics of the population
Stratified sampling ensures representation from various subgroups within the population.
What is convenience (opportunity) sampling?
Recruit whoever is available/whoever volunteers
This method may lead to bias as it does not ensure a representative sample.
Describe quota sampling
Select whoever volunteers with specific characteristics
Quota sampling aims to fill a predetermined number of participants from certain subgroups.
What is snowball sampling?
Ask participants to mention the study to those they know
This method is often used in populations that are hard to reach or identify.
What does WEIRD stand for in psychological research?
Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, Democratic
What percentage of the world’s population is considered WEIRD?
Approximately 12%
What demographic is most commonly represented in psychological research participants?
Young (18-21 years) and female undergraduate students
True or False: The majority of psychological research participants are representative of the global population.
False
What significant implications may arise from the overrepresentation of WEIRD participants in research?
Implications for psychological theory and understanding
Fill in the blank: The majority of participants in psychological research are _______.
WEIRD
What is a survey?
Surveys are tools that allow us to ask questions and (typically) get a numeric response
Surveys can be used in various fields to gather quantitative data.
What types of things can surveys measure?
Surveys can measure:
* Attitudes
* Opinions
* Variables less easy to measure using other methods (e.g., intelligence, personality)
Surveys are versatile tools in research.
What is the common format used in surveys to gather responses?
Most surveys employ questionnaires that require a response from a set of options on an ordinal scale (e.g., Likert Scale)
The Likert Scale is commonly used for measuring attitudes and opinions.
In psychological research, what is the role of surveys?
Surveys in psychological research are a form of psychometric assessment
Psychometric assessments help quantify psychological variables.
True or False: Surveys can only measure easily quantifiable variables.
False
Surveys can also measure complex variables like personality and intelligence.
Fill in the blank: Surveys typically get a _______ response.
numeric response
This allows for quantitative analysis of the collected data.
What is Psychometrics?
The science of assessment
Psychometrics involves various methods of measuring psychological attributes.
List some types of assessments we are exposed to.
- Height
- Weight
- Blood pressure
- Driving tests
- Essays
- Personality tests
These assessments can vary in their focus and methodology.
What are directly observable features in assessments?
Features that can be measured without inference
Examples include height and weight.
What are proxy measures?
Measures that indirectly assess a construct
Proxy measures are used when direct measurement is not possible.
What do we mean by unobservable constructs in assessments?
Attributes or traits that cannot be directly measured
Examples include intelligence or personality.
Fill in the blank: Psychometrics is the science of _______.
[assessment]
True or False: Personality tests are considered a type of psychometric assessment.
True
Personality tests assess psychological traits and characteristics.
What is psychometrics?
Psychometrics is any type of measure that has been developed that measures unobservable constructs (e.g. conscientiousness)
Psychometrics plays a crucial role in psychology, education, and various fields requiring measurement of psychological traits.
What are the two main bases for psychometric measures?
- Theory Based
- Statistics Based
These bases ensure that measures are both conceptually sound and empirically validated.
What is True Score Theory also known as?
Latent trait theory
True Score Theory is fundamental in psychometrics for understanding the relationship between observed scores and true scores.
What is a key procedure in developing psychometric measures?
There is a procedure for developing psychometric measures
This procedure often involves multiple stages, including item generation, testing, and validation.
True or False: Psychometric measures can only be developed based on theory.
False
Psychometric measures can be developed based on both theory and statistics.
Fill in the blank: Psychometric development is based on _______.
[True Score Theory]
This theory underlies many psychometric methods and practices in measurement.
What is an example of an unobservable construct that psychometrics measures?
Conscientiousness
Conscientiousness is a personality trait that can influence various life outcomes, making it an important construct in psychometrics.
What is psychometrics?
Psychometrics is any type of measure that has been developed that measures unobservable constructs (e.g. conscientiousness)
Psychometrics plays a crucial role in psychology, education, and various fields requiring measurement of psychological traits.
What are the two main bases for psychometric measures?
- Theory Based
- Statistics Based
These bases ensure that measures are both conceptually sound and empirically validated.
What is True Score Theory also known as?
Latent trait theory
True Score Theory is fundamental in psychometrics for understanding the relationship between observed scores and true scores.
What is a key procedure in developing psychometric measures?
There is a procedure for developing psychometric measures
This procedure often involves multiple stages, including item generation, testing, and validation.
True or False: Psychometric measures can only be developed based on theory.
False
Psychometric measures can be developed based on both theory and statistics.
Fill in the blank: Psychometric development is based on _______.
[True Score Theory]
This theory underlies many psychometric methods and practices in measurement.
What is an example of an unobservable construct that psychometrics measures?
Conscientiousness
Conscientiousness is a personality trait that can influence various life outcomes, making it an important construct in psychometrics.
What are self-report questionnaires?
Used to further understand behaviour and inner experience
What is the purpose of self-report questionnaires?
A way to quantify an aspect of the self
How do self-report questionnaires typically collect responses?
Involve a set of statements which are responded to on a scale
How are responses to self-report questionnaires processed?
Responses are scored
What is a key characteristic of scoring in self-report questionnaires?
Individually or for a group
What is a common use of self-report questionnaires in group settings?
To separate extroverts from introverts
What must be tested for self-report questionnaire scales?
Reliability
What is another important aspect of self-report questionnaires besides reliability?
Validity
What constructs have scales been developed for in self-report questionnaires?
Body image and self-esteem
Name a specific self-report scale that measures self-esteem.
Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale (RSES)
Fill in the blank: The _______ is a scale developed to measure self-objectification.
Self-objectification scale
What is the full name of the scale abbreviated as ROBCS?
Revised Objectified Body Consciousness Scale
Who developed the Revised Objectified Body Consciousness Scale?
Quinn and Lewis, 2005
What are the two very important concepts in keeping measurement error to a minimum?
Reliability and Validity
These concepts are essential for ensuring accurate measurements in research.
Define reliability in the context of measurement tools.
Reliability refers to whether the tool measures the construct consistently across different situations.
This means that repeated measurements under consistent conditions should yield similar results.
Define validity in the context of measurement tools.
Validity refers to whether the tool measures what it is supposed to measure.
It assesses whether the measurement accurately reflects the concept being studied.
True or False: Validity and reliability are the same concepts.
False
They represent different aspects of measurement quality.
Fill in the blank: _______ refers to whether a measurement tool yields consistent results across different situations.
[Reliability]
Fill in the blank: _______ assesses whether a tool measures what it is intended to measure.
[Validity]
What is reliability in measurement?
Reliability is the ability to measure a construct consistently or that it has a low error rate.
Reliability indicates the stability and consistency of a measurement over time and across different scenarios.
Why is establishing reliability easier in physical sciences compared to psychological constructs?
In physical sciences, reliability can be easily established, for example, measuring height with a ruler can be verified against other scales.
In contrast, psychological constructs are more subjective and complex, making reliability harder to ensure.
What is Cronbach’s alpha used for?
Cronbach’s alpha is used to measure internal consistency, specifically how well do questions in a questionnaire correlate with one another.
A higher Cronbach’s alpha indicates better internal consistency among the items in the questionnaire.
What does the test-retest method evaluate?
The test-retest method evaluates whether a questionnaire yields a similar score at two different time points.
This method helps assess the stability of the measure over time.
Fill in the blank: Reliability is the ability to measure a construct _______.
[consistently]
True or False: Some level of error can be acceptable when measuring psychological constructs.
True
The acceptable level of error can vary depending on the context and purpose of the measurement.
List two methods to test reliability.
- Cronbach’s alpha
- Test-retest
What does validity mean in the context of a test score?
It measures what it says it measures
Validity is crucial for ensuring the accuracy of test scores and the inferences drawn from them.
According to APA, how is a test defined as valid?
A test is valid to the extent that inferences made from it are appropriate, meaningful and useful
This definition emphasizes the importance of the implications derived from test results.
What is face validity?
Does it look right?
Face validity refers to the superficial appearance of a test and whether it seems to measure what it claims to measure.
Define content validity.
The test corresponds to the construct (content validity index)
Content validity ensures that the test covers the relevant content area comprehensively.
What does criterion-related validity assess?
Does it work against other similar measures?
This form of validity examines how well one measure predicts an outcome based on another measure.
What is construct validity?
Does it measure what it says it will measure?
Construct validity evaluates whether a test truly measures the theoretical construct it claims to measure.
What does the variable X represent in the True Score formula?
X is the score that is observed
In the True Score formula, what does T represent?
T is the true score
In the True Score formula, what does E represent?
E is the error
What is the formula for calculating the observed score?
Observed score = true score + error
Fill in the blank: Observed score = _______ + error.
[true score]
What is a psychological construct?
A concept that represents a psychological phenomenon
What is the challenge in defining a psychological construct?
Knowing what to measure and where to start
True or False: The definition of psychological constructs is straightforward and does not require further investigation.
False
What are the key considerations when defining psychological constructs?
- What to measure
- Where to start
What is response bias?
When participants are biased away from truthful or accurate answers
This can significantly affect the validity of survey results.
What is social desirability bias?
Participants frequently like to present themselves favorably
This bias can lead to inaccurate responses in surveys.
True or False: It is acceptable to ask sexist questions in surveys.
False
Such questions can lead to biased responses and are unethical.
What is acquiescence in survey responses?
When people are not sure about the question and just agree to it
This can compromise the accuracy of survey results.
List some downfalls of survey methods.
- Response Bias
- Leading Questions
- Social Desirability Bias
- Acquiescence
These issues can affect the reliability and validity of survey findings.
What are Likert scales commonly used for?
Psychometric measures
What is a typical response format for Likert scales?
Disagree strongly through to agree strongly with 1-5
What is a major issue with Likert scales?
They are routinely used as a continuous variable when they are not
What is debated regarding the points on a Likert scale?
Odd or even points on a scale
Why is there debate over even points on a Likert scale?
A neutral option does not force participants to one side
What do most psychometricians accept regarding the number of responses in Likert scales?
Use of odd numbered responses (i.e. 1-5 or 1-7)
Fill in the blank: Likert scales are often used to measure _______.
[participant attitudes or opinions]