Research Methods in Psychology

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of formulating a hypothesis in experimental research?

To identify the dependent variable.

To establish a predefined outcome of the experiment.

To eliminate control variables from the equation.

To propose a potential cause and effect relationship. (correct)

Which statement accurately defines the role of an independent variable in an experiment?

It is a variable that should be ignored to avoid confusion.

It is manipulated to observe its effect on the dependent variable. (correct)

It is the outcome that is measured at the end of the experiment.

It is the variable that remains constant throughout the study.

What is an essential aspect of experimental design to establish a causal relationship?

Manipulating the dependent variable while keeping the independent variable constant.

Ensuring random selection of participants without any control.

Controlling extraneous variables that may affect the results. (correct)

Using only qualitative data collected through interviews.

Why is it important to control certain variables in an experiment?

To ensure that they do not influence the dependent variable's outcome. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential disadvantage of experimental research?

It may not accurately reflect real-world conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What is mainly tested in experimental research?

The impact of variables on hypotheses Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes the variable that is manipulated in an experiment?

Independent variable Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using experimental research in psychology?

It strengthens the ability to establish cause and effect relationships. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic feature of experimental design?

Careful manipulation of the independent variable Signup and view all the answers

What purpose do control variables serve in an experiment?

To eliminate or minimize the impact of confounding variables Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a disadvantage of experimental research?

Subjects may show unnatural behavior due to controlled conditions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a disadvantage of experimental research?

It often lacks ecological validity Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the 'Between-Subjects Design' in experimental research?

Different subjects are assigned to different groups. Signup and view all the answers

What role do hypotheses play in experimental research?

They guide the design and analysis of the research Signup and view all the answers

In the context of experimental research, what is a 'control variable'?

A variable that is kept constant to prevent it from influencing the outcome. Signup and view all the answers

Which method is commonly used to control for participant differences in experiments?

Randomization Signup and view all the answers

Which format of experimental research allows researchers to measure the same subjects over multiple conditions?

Within-Subjects Design Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates Ex Post Facto research from true experimental research?

Ex Post Facto research does not manipulate the independent variable. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes unobtrusive measures?

Collection of data without direct interaction with subjects Signup and view all the answers

Why might gender researchers be hesitant to use experimental methods?

Experiments may disrupt the natural behavior of participants. Signup and view all the answers

What potential issue arises from the ethical considerations in experimental research?

The risk of causing stress or pressure to subjects. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Research Methods in Psychology

Psychology studies gender issues scientifically.
The scientific method involves steps like identifying a research problem.
Quantitative and qualitative research methods are used to collect and analyze data.
Qualitative methods involve non-numerical data analysis techniques, while quantitative methods involve numerical data analysis techniques.
Quantitative research includes descriptive and experimental methods.
Descriptive methods include surveys, correlational studies, and observations.
Content analysis is a method of analyzing media, text, or interactions to understand themes or patterns.
Content analysis can be used to assess the impact of media on ideas about gender.
Archival data refers to pre-existing data from documents, records, or other sources.
Unobtrusive measures in research involve methods of observing behavior and gathering data without the knowledge of the individuals.
Unobtrusive measures can be helpful when direct observation is not possible or appropriate.
Physical traces and products are examples of unobtrusive measures.
One type of experimental research is Ex Post facto research.
Ex Post facto research is a type of quasi-experimentation where an independent variable has occurred naturally,.
The researcher then studies the impact of the natural event.
Experimental research uses experimental methods to study phenomena.

Experimental Design

An experimental design is the plan, structure, or layout of an experiment.
The independent variable is manipulated to study its effect on the dependent variable.
The dependent variable is measured to determine if it changes as a response to the manipulations made with the independent variable.
A control variable is a potential factor that could influence the dependent variable that is held constant during the experiment.
Control variables help ensure that any observed changes in the dependent variable are solely attributed to the manipulation of the independent variable.
Experimental research aims to find cause-effect relationships.
A typical experiment uses two groups: an experimental group and a control group.
Experimental research has advantages in terms of control and establishing cause-effect relationships but has disadvantages concerning artificiality, ethical issues, and costs.

Types of Research Designs

Experimental research can take the form of between-subjects design or within-subjects design.
Between-subjects design compares an experimental group to a control group that has not received any treatment
Within-subjects design involves same subjects that are measured in all conditions.

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Description

Explore the diverse research methods used in psychology, including both qualitative and quantitative approaches. This quiz covers topics such as data collection techniques, the scientific method, and specific methodologies like content analysis and unobtrusive measures. Test your understanding of how these methods can be applied to gender issues within the field.