Psychology Chapter: Scientific Method & Research

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Questions and Answers

What best describes the purpose of control groups in research design?

To observe effects of the independent variable.

To provide an experimental condition for testing hypotheses.

To serve as a baseline for comparison against experimental groups. (correct)

To manipulate external factors influencing the research.

Which sampling technique is specifically designed to enhance sample representativeness?

Stratified sampling which divides the population into subgroups.

Random sampling where each member of the population has an equal chance of being selected. (correct)

Cluster sampling which selects entire groups instead of individuals.

Convenience sampling where participants are selected based on easy access.

Which of the following is NOT a ethical consideration regarding participants in research?

Allowing participants to withdraw without penalty at any time.

Guaranteeing participant anonymity in data protection.

Providing financial compensation to all participants. (correct)

Ensuring participants are informed of potential risks.

What is a primary ethical guideline concerning animal research?

Animals should be subjected to minimal stress and proper care. Signup and view all the answers

What does longitudinal research primarily focus on?

Following the same group over an extended period. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Scientific Method?

To enhance understanding of the world through observation and experimentation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes naturalistic observation?

Observing subjects without interference in their usual environment Signup and view all the answers

What potential issue arises from using case studies in psychological research?

They can be highly biased and not generalizable Signup and view all the answers

How does the Research Methodology affect study outcomes?

It influences data collection and interpretation significantly Signup and view all the answers

What does a positive correlation between two variables indicate?

Both variables move in the same direction Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the independent variable in an experiment?

To manipulate and observe its effect on the dependent variable Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of the Scientific Method allows researchers to assess the validity of their conclusions?

Critical thinking and analysis of empirical evidence Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a dependent variable in an experiment?

To be measured and respond to changes made to the independent variable Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Scientific Method

A systematic approach to understanding the world through observation, experimentation, and analysis.
It involves formulating hypotheses, conducting controlled experiments, and drawing conclusions based on empirical evidence.
Psychology, as a discipline, relies heavily on the Scientific Method to understand human behavior.

Importance of Research Methodology

Research methodology encompasses the techniques and strategies used to gather and analyze data.
It is crucial for formulating logical conclusions based on evidence.
The specific methods used can significantly impact the results and interpretations of a study.

Observational Techniques

Gather information by watching subjects.
Can introduce bias if not conducted objectively.
Naturalistic Observation observes subjects in their natural environment and minimizes participant awareness.
The Hawthorne effect refers to subject’s tendency to alter their behavior when they are aware of being observed.

Case Studies and Correlational Studies

A Case study is an in-depth examination of a single individual, which can reveal universal principles but is prone to bias.
Correlational studies investigate the relationship between two or more variables.
Positive correlations occur when variables move in the same direction.
Negative correlations occur when variables move in opposite directions.
Correlation does not imply causation and does not explain why an association exists.

Experimental Methods

Involves manipulating variables to determine cause-and-effect relationships.
A hypothesis is a testable prediction about the outcome of an experiment.
The independent variable is manipulated by the researcher and is expected to cause changes in the dependent variable.
The dependent variable is the outcome measured in the experiment.

Research Design Considerations

Sampling Techniques aim to select a representative group from the population.
A random sample ensures each member of the population has an equal chance of being selected.
Longitudinal studies follow the same group of individuals over time.

Control and Experimental Groups

The experimental group is exposed to the independent variable.
The control group is not exposed to the independent variable and serves as a baseline for comparison.
Extraneous variables are external factors that could influence results and must be controlled for.

Ethical Considerations in Research

Participants must be informed about the nature of the research and any potential risks.
Participants can refuse to participate and withdraw at any time without penalty.
Individual data must remain private and not be disclosed without consent.
Ethical guidelines require humane treatment of animals used in research, including proper housing, food, and care.
Animal studies can provide insights applicable to human behavior, especially in genetics and developmental research.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the Scientific Method and its significance in psychology. It covers aspects of research methodology, observational techniques, and the importance of conducting experiments objectively. Test your understanding of how these concepts contribute to the study of human behavior.