Questions and Answers
What is a key advantage of naturalistic observation?
Which type of observation is most effective in establishing cause-effect relationships?
What is a disadvantage of participant observations?
In which type of experimental study is the independent variable not under the experimenter's control?
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Which term refers to variables that can affect the dependent variable but are not of primary interest?
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What is a common characteristic of laboratory experiments?
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Which observation method involves the researcher being a part of the group being studied?
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What is the primary goal of any experimental study?
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Which type of observation has the highest ecological validity?
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What is a common challenge faced in field experiments?
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Study Notes
Observational Studies
Naturalistic Observation
- Involves observing behavior in its natural environment without interference.
- Reduces experimenter effect by keeping observations discreet.
- Example: Sherman (1975) analyzed "group glee" in 596 preschool classes.
- Advantages include studying behavior naturally and minimizing ethical concerns due to lack of manipulation.
- Disadvantages include time consumption, experimenter-expectancy bias, and difficulty in determining cause-effect relationships.
Laboratory/Controlled Observations
- Conducted in a controlled setting where the researcher manipulates conditions.
- Experimenter can observe openly or discreetly.
- Offers greater control over extraneous variables compared to naturalistic observations.
- Potential to establish cause-effect relationships due to controlled conditions.
Participant Observations
- Researcher actively engages with the group being studied for deeper understanding.
- Can be covert (researcher conceals identity) or overt (researcher discloses identity and purpose).
Experimental Studies
Types of Experiments
- Lab Experiments: Highly controlled settings; standardized procedures; replicable.
- Field Experiments: Conducted in real-life situations; some control over independent variables (IV) but less than lab experiments.
- Natural Experiments: Occur naturally in real-life settings; IV cannot be controlled; provide ecological validity.
Comparison of Experimental Types
- Lab experiments maintain low ecological validity but establish strong cause-effect relationships.
- Field experiments have high ecological validity but face challenges in controlling extraneous variables.
- Natural experiments possess high ecological validity with minimal ethical issues, but they struggle with control over variables.
Key Terminology
- Independent Variable (IV): The factor manipulated by the experimenter; considered the cause.
- Dependent Variable (DV): The outcome measured or observed, influenced by the IV; regarded as the effect.
- Extraneous Variable (EV): Uncontrolled variables that can impact the DV, which must be managed for valid results.
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Description
This quiz explores different methods of observational studies in psychology, focusing on naturalistic observation, laboratory observations, and participant observations. Understand the advantages and disadvantages of each method and their implications for psychological research.
