Unit 1.1 & 1.2 Flashcards
Psychobabble
explain why someone is behaving the way they do
Theoretical Explanation
explanation for a psychological phenomenon, linked to empirical investigation
- a statement used to organize, summarize, and explain observations
- can be used to make predictions
- not like laws of science
- theories are probable, but not certain
- always open to some degree of doubt
Empirical Investigation
when a researcher collects and analyzes data in order to investigate a psychological phenomenon
- Research can be observed and measured
- A theory might result from an empirical investigation
Psychology
scientific study of mental processes and behaviors and how these are affected by internal processes and the environment
Level of analysis: Biological
Focuses on physiology and genetics
Level of analysis: Cognitive
Focuses on mental processes like memory, thinking, and perception
Level of analysis: Sociocultural
Focuses on how environment and culture affects behavioral thinking
Critical Thinking
The ability and willingness to asses claims and make objective judgements on the basis of well supported reasons and evidence
Aim
Purpose of study
Target Population
Group whose behavior the researcher wishes to investigate
Procedure
Step-by-step process used by the researcher to carry out the study
Findings
states how the researcher interpreted the data that was collected
Sample
nature of the group of participants, important in determining the usefulness of a piece of information
Opportunity Sampling
whoever happens to be there and agrees to participate
Representative Sample
sample that represents population