PSYC 316 Chapter 2 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What are philosophical assumptions in research?

Guidelines for conducting experiments

Beliefs about reality, knowledge, and values (correct)

Only the researcher's personal opinions

Statistical methods used in research

What do interpretive frameworks guide in research?

Actions of the researcher

What does the term 'ontological' refer to?

Nature of reality

What is the focus of epistemological assumptions?

Relationship between researcher and studied subject Signup and view all the answers

Axiological assumptions indicate that all research is value-free.

False Signup and view all the answers

How does postpositivism characterize itself?

Reductionistic, logical, empirical, cause-and-effect oriented Signup and view all the answers

What do social constructivists seek to understand?

Subjective meanings of experiences Signup and view all the answers

What are social justice theories aimed at?

Bringing about change or addressing social justice issues Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of transformative frameworks?

To improve society through knowledge construction Signup and view all the answers

What do feminist research approaches aim to establish?

Collaborative and non-exploited relationships Signup and view all the answers

What does critical race theory focus on?

Race and racism in society Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of critical theory in research?

Study of social institutions and societal transformations Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Paradigms' refer to?

Basic set of beliefs that guide action Signup and view all the answers

What do theories or theoretical orientations provide in research?

General explanations of expected findings Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Philosophical Assumptions

Researcher stances include ontology (view of reality), epistemology (knowledge of reality), axiology (value stance), and methodology (research procedures).
These assumptions guide the research process and are often articulated through various theories or frameworks.

Interpretive Frameworks

Frameworks guide researchers' actions during studies and shape their understanding of the research context.

Ontological Assumptions

Address the nature of reality; in qualitative research, reality is seen as constructed in the minds of individuals involved, rather than an external entity.

Epistemological Assumptions

Highlight the interdependent relationship between the researcher and participants, emphasizing collaboration and the impact of the research context on both.

Axiological Assumptions

Acknowledge that all research carries value systems, which influence research outcomes and interpretive processes.

Methodology

Represents the qualitative researcher's conceptualization of the research process, emphasizing flexibility and context-specific approaches.

Postpositivism

Characterized by reductionism, logical reasoning, empirical evaluation, and a cause-and-effect orientation, often relying on pre-existing theories.

Seeks to understand the complex and subjective meanings individuals attach to their experiences, emphasizing participant perspectives over predefined categories.

Serve as theoretical frameworks founded on empirical evidence, providing explanations, predictions, and generalizations about social phenomena.

Focus on advocacy and participatory approaches aimed at addressing and changing social justice issues within societies.

Transformative Framework

Argues that knowledge construction reflects societal power dynamics, emphasizing support for marginalized groups and promoting positive societal change.

Postmodernism

Asserts that knowledge claims must consider contemporary social conditions and diverse perspectives related to class, race, and gender.

Pragmatism

Focuses on research outcomes and practical consequences rather than initial conditions, prioritizing actionable knowledge.

Feminist Research Approaches

Aim to create collaborative relationships, maintain the researcher’s contextual presence, and promote transformative research methodologies.

Critical Race Theory

Analyzes the deeply embedded nature of racism within American society and its influence on research topics and perspectives.

Critical Theory

Examines social institutions, historical issues of domination and alienation, and critiques society while envisioning transformative possibilities.

Queer Theory

Investigates the historical and cultural constructions of queer identities, linking them to broader discussions on gender and sexuality.

Disability Interpretive Lens

Treats disability as a dimension of human diversity rather than a defect, focusing on the strengths and contributions of individuals with disabilities.

Paradigms

Define foundational beliefs and worldviews that guide research actions, shaping the approach and interpretation within studies.

Theories or Theoretical Orientations

Outline general expectations and hypotheses the researcher aims to explore or validate in their investigations.

Description

Test your understanding of the philosophical assumptions and interpretive frameworks in research with these flashcards for PSYC 316 Chapter 2. This quiz will help clarify key concepts such as ontology, epistemology, axiology, and methodology integral to the research process.