variables – create an operational definition of the things you will measure in your research (how...
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Research in Psychology
The Scientific Method
Study Design
Variables – Create an operational definition of the things you will measure in your research (How will you observe and measure your variables?)
Population – identify the large groups you want your research to apply to. Representative sample- should match the population
in question on important characteristics Random sampling- where each person in a research
study has an equal chance of being selected Volunteer bias- those who volunteer probably differ
from those that stay silent
Descriptive Studies
Case Study Provides in-depth description of a
particular individual or event, rare occurring phenomenon
Advantages: Unusual cases can shed light on situations/ problems that are unethical to study in other ways
Disadvantages: Individual may not be representative or typical, researcher biases
Descriptive Studies
Survey/ Interview Research method that asks subjects
questions about their feelings, opinions or behavior patterns
Advantages: Large amounts of information about large numbers of people
Disadvantages: If sample is non-representative or biased info in inaccurate, Responses may not be true
Descriptive Studies
Naturalistic Observation Method that involves studying subjects
without their being award that they are being watched
Advantages: Behavior studies is completely natural
Disadvantages: Researcher bias, unable to interact with subjects, limited control
Descriptive Studies
Laboratory Observation Method to observe behavior in a more
controlled setting
Advantages: Allows more control and the use of sophisticated equipment
Disadvantages: Setting is somewhat artificial, may not reflect the “real world”
Descriptive Studies
Psychological Tests Objective methods for observation and
measurement of subjects in various areas
Advantages: information gathered on personality traits, emotional stats, aptitudes, abilities
Disadvantages: Difficult to construct tests that are valid and reliable
Descriptive Studies
Content Analysis A research method that examines
written data for patterns in behavior
Advantages: Collect large amounts of information without having to meet subjects
Disadvantages: limited information
The Experiment
A controlled test of the hypothesis The only way to prove a cause-effect
relationship! Manipulation of variables:
Independent variable: the variable the experimenter changes
Dependent variable: a variable the experimenter predicts will be affected by the independent variable (in psychology it’s the behavior you are observing)
Dividing the sample:
Experimental group: exposed to the IV
Control group: not exposed to the IV
The Experiment