PSYC 316 Chapter 2 Flashcards

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.

Social Constructivism

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

Social Science Theories

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

Social Justice Theories

• 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.

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.