Unit. 2: The Research Enterprise in Psychology Flashcards
Goals of the Scientific Enterprise
- Measure & Describe
- Understand & Predict
- Apply & Control
Steps in a Scientific Investigation
- Formulate a testable hypothesis
- Select the method and design the study
- Collect the data
- Analyze the data and draw a conclusion
- Report your findings
Advantages of the Scientific Approach
- Clarity & precision yield better communication
- Intolerance of error yields more reliable data (clear test/data leave little to no room for error when drawing conclusions)
Quantitative Research
Measuring variables using a numerical system
Qualitative Research
research that provides descriptive data, such as observing behaviour
Experimental Research
A research study where the investigator manipulates a controlled variable seeing how/if it affects a second variable.
-Cause & Effect Relationship
Descriptive Correlation Research
- In matter of running into ethical issues where the a variable can not be manipulated this research method allows more broad spectrum of research in psychology.
- Methods include: Surveys, Case studies, Naturalistic observation
Independent Variable (X)
Conditions or events MANIPULATED by the experimenter, to have affect on dependent behaviour
Extraneous Variables
Factors besides the independent variable that may affect behaviour of dependent variable
Experimental Group V.S. Control Group
Experimental groups: subjects in a study that receive special treatment
Control groups: subjects in a study that do not receive any special treatment
Advantages & Disadvantages of Experimental Research
Advantages: Strong (cause & effect) evidence
Disadvantages: artificial and ethical issues arise
Dependent Variable (Y)
Aspects of behaviour thought to be affected by independent variable
Naturalistic Observations
Careful systematic observation, no intervention with subjects
Case Study
In-depth investigation of single participants, typically deriving data from multiple sources
Survey
Questionnaires and interviews used to gather information about specific aspects of participants behaviour
Advantages & Disadvantages of Descriptive/Correlation Research
+broadens the scope of researchable data psychologist can study
-can not demonstrate cause and effect relationships
Positive V.S. Negative Correlation
(+) Variables are going the same direction
(-)Variables are going opposite directions
Positive V.S. Negative Correlation
Determines the direction of the correlation, not the strength
(+) Variables are going the same direction
(-)Variables are going opposite directions
Correlation Coefficient
Numerical index of the degree of relationship between two variables
Correlation Strength
The closer to correlation to either -1.00 or +1.00 the stronger the relationship.
(+/-, determine the direction)
Sampling Bias
When a sample is not representative of the population it is testing
Placebo Effects
participants/subjects expectations lead them to a experience change even when given empty/fake treatment
Distortions in Self-Report data
When giving verbal accounts on ones own behaviour social desirability bias and other influences may sway results
Experimenter Bias
Research/experimenters expectations influence the outcome of a study
