Research Methods in Psychology
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Questions and Answers

What is one main purpose of conducting research in psychology?

  • To create fictional narratives
  • To entertain audiences
  • To display artistic talents
  • To analyze an area of interest (correct)
  • Participants have the right to withdraw from a study at any time without giving an explanation.

    True

    What is a common disadvantage of quantitative research?

    It may oversimplify the complexity of human nature.

    Before participating in a study, individuals must read an information sheet and sign a __________.

    <p>consent form</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following types of research with their primary characteristic:

    <p>Quantitative research = Focuses on numerical measurements and data analysis Qualitative research = Explores complex phenomena through detailed descriptions Triangulation = Combines multiple methods to enhance validity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT typically included in an information sheet for participants?

    <p>Details about the study's funding</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Quantitative research involves gathering detailed descriptions of participants' experiences.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    List one advantage of quantitative research.

    <p>It allows for precise measurement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of conducting research in psychology?

    <p>To understand human behavior and mental processes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Informed consent is necessary to ensure participants understand their rights and what the research entails.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Name one advantage of conducting quantitative research.

    <p>It allows for the generalization of results.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    One disadvantage of qualitative research is that it is more __________ to analyze.

    <p>difficult</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the research type with its characteristic:

    <p>Quantitative Research = Focuses on numerical data and statistical analysis Qualitative Research = Seeks to understand experiences in depth Validity = Measures what it claims to measure Reliability = Consistency of a measure over time</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a con of quantitative research?

    <p>It may overlook the context of participants' experiences</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Qualitative research is primarily concerned with gathering numerical data.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does triangulation refer to in psychology research?

    <p>The use of multiple methods or data sources to enhance the validity of research findings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of triangulation in research?

    <p>To use various methods to enhance credibility.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Qualitative research uses structured observations to gather data.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Name one type of triangulation used in psychological research.

    <p>Data triangulation, Researcher triangulation, Theoretical triangulation, or Methodological triangulation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Researcher's position in qualitative research relies heavily on __________.

    <p>subjectivity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the types of triangulation with their definitions:

    <p>Researcher triangulation = Different researchers conducting the same study Data triangulation = Using data from different sources or times Theoretical triangulation = Multiple perspectives to interpret results Methodological triangulation = Combining quantitative and qualitative methods</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a disadvantage of qualitative research?

    <p>It lacks generalizability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Quantitative research focuses on understanding experiences in depth.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the two criteria used to judge the value of quantitative research?

    <p>Reliability and validity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Research Methods in Psychology

    • Psychology has moved from speculation to empirical data
    • Behaviourists focused on observable behavior
    • Quantitative methods use numerical data
    • Qualitative methods use descriptive data
    • Researchers choose the appropriate method based on their research intentions and assumptions
    • Quantitative methods are used to test hypotheses and generalize to populations
    • Qualitative methods are used to understand life experiences and the meaning behind experiences
    • Researchers should be knowledgeable about both methodologies

    Quantitative Research

    • Gathers numerical information
    • Uses statistical methods
    • Identifies cause-and-effect relationships (in experimental designs)
    • Assumes objectivity is key
    • May oversimplify human complexity
    • Uses large samples
    • Laboratory settings can be less natural
    • Can have low ecological validity
    • May not fully address individual differences

    Quantitative Research Tools

    • Experiments: manipulate an independent variable to observe its effect on a dependent variable, controlling extraneous variables.
    • Observation: counting the frequency of specific behaviors
    • Rating Scales: numerically measure opinions or attitudes
    • Likert Scales: measure attitudes and opinions on a scale
    • Data is often collected by questions and surveys about participants opinions

    Qualitative Research

    • Gathers descriptive and narrative information (words, not numbers)
    • Focuses on participant perspectives
    • Aims to understand the meaning people attach to their experiences
    • The researcher is the primary data collection and analysis tool
    • Does not need large, representative samples
    • Not intended to be generalized
    • Often chosen for in depth understanding of experiences/events
    • Focuses on subjective lived/experiential reality

    Qualitative Research Tools

    • Interviews (structured, semi-structured, unstructured): exploring the experiences of individuals
    • Semi-structured/unstructured observations: observing behavior in a natural setting
    • Case studies: intensive investigation of an individual or specific situation

    Combining Methodologies

    • Triangulation means using multiple approaches in a single study to improve conclusions
    • Approaches to triangulation include:
      • Data triangulation (different sources, different points in time)
      • Researcher triangulation (multiple researchers)
      • Theoretical triangulation (multiple perspectives/theories)
      • Methodological triangulation (using both qualitative and quantitative measures)

    Evaluating Research

    • Quantitative:
      • Validity: extent to which a test measure what it claims to measure
      • Reliability: extent to which the results of a measure are consistent
    • Qualitative:
      • Authenticity/Detailed:
      • Meaningful:
      • Detailed:
      • Generalization: not applicable
      • Triangulation: improve study's confidence

    Summary of Quantitative and Qualitative Methodologies

    • Quantitative: large samples, numerical data, statistical analysis, generalize easily
    • Qualitative: smaller samples, descriptive data, in-depth understanding, limited generalizability

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    Description

    Explore the various research methods used in psychology, focusing on quantitative and qualitative approaches. Understand how behaviorists emphasize observable behavior and how researchers select methods based on their intentions. This quiz will help deepen your knowledge of the tools and principles guiding psychological research.

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