Role of Theory in Social Psychological Research

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What type of variable is the independent variable (IV)?

Randomly selected

Dependent on another variable

Manipulated by the researcher (correct)

Not being studied directly

Which group is NOT exposed to the independent variable in an experiment?

Control Group (correct)

Variable Group

Random Group

Experimental Group

What is the main purpose of a representative sample in research?

To generalize findings to a larger population (correct)

To reduce the sample size

To introduce biases into the study

To manipulate variables effectively

Why are college students often over-represented in research samples?

Because of convenience Signup and view all the answers

In experimentation, what is required for success regarding participants?

Random assignment Signup and view all the answers

What type of validity focuses on whether a study rules out other controllable effects?

Internal validity Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of conducting laboratory research?

High internal validity due to control Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research involves the examination of behavior in its natural habitat?

Field research Signup and view all the answers

In experimental research, why is it important to manipulate variables?

To establish a cause-and-effect relationship Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research primarily uses systematic observation?

Descriptive research Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes correlational research from experimental research?

Establishing cause-and-effect relationships Signup and view all the answers

Why are results from field research more generalizable to a wider population?

Behavior is observed in natural settings Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research is characterized by systematic methods to gather information and test the usefulness of theories?

Laboratory research Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research aims to establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables?

Experimental research Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of descriptive research in social psychology?

To make reliable generalizations Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research is driven by a curiosity and desire to expand knowledge, but may not have direct real-world applications?

Basic research Signup and view all the answers

Applied research is primarily focused on:

Solving specific problems Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research directly aims to promote understanding rather than immediate real-world applications?