Scientific Method in Psychology Flashcards

Study Notes

Key Concepts in Psychological Research

Hypothesis: A testable prediction intended to explain a behavior or phenomenon.
Theory: A comprehensive explanation derived from extensive data analysis, offering insights into behaviors or events.
Scientific Method: A systematic approach for conducting research that minimizes bias and errors, fostering reliable results.
Psychology as a Science: Engages in methodical inquiry to understand human behavior and mental processes.

Research Process

Research initiates with formulating a question, followed by creating a hypothesis grounded in observed behaviors.
The psychologist designs a method to rigorously test the hypothesis.
Essential to define the type and volume of data required, as well as the resources and timeframe available.

Data Analysis and Conclusions

Post-data collection, results undergo thorough analysis.
Based on findings, researchers can either support or reject the original hypothesis.
Supporting a hypothesis may lead to proposing a new theory for testing by others.
If the hypothesis is not supported, a new hypothesis and testing cycle begins.

Research Methodologies

Informal Survey: A general method where questions are posed to collect information informally.
Naturalistic Observation: Researchers observe subjects in their natural habitats without interference, allowing for authentic behavior analysis.
Case Study: Involves in-depth investigation of one or more participants, revealing detailed insights.
Formal Survey: Collects information from many individuals through structured questions, including interviews and questionnaires.
Longitudinal Study: Gathers data over years to observe developmental changes within a group.
Cross Sectional Study: Compares data across different age groups to explore developmental differences.

Variables in Research

Correlation: Indicates the strength and direction of the relationship between two variables.
Variable: Any factor within a study subject to change.
Independent Variable: The factor manipulated by researchers to observe its effects.
Dependent Variable: The outcome that is measured, contingent on changes to the independent variable.

Group Dynamics in Experiments

Control Group: Treated similarly to the experimental group but does not receive the independent variable treatment, serving as a comparison benchmark.

Steps of the Scientific Method

Formulate a research question, followed by hypothesis development.
Identify and define independent and dependent variables.
Conduct experiments, comparing experimental and control groups.
Analyze measurements and draw conclusions based on the results.

Experiment Integrity

Self-fulfilling Prophecy: Researchers' expectations may inadvertently influence participants, affecting outcomes.
Single-blind Experiment: Participants do not know which group they belong to, reducing bias.
Double-blind Experiment: Both participants and experimenters are unaware of group assignments, minimizing expectancy effects.
Placebo Effect: Participants may experience changes in behavior or condition due to their belief in the treatment rather than the actual treatment itself.

Description

Test your understanding of key concepts related to the scientific method and research in psychology with these flashcards. Each card presents important terms such as hypothesis, theory, and the steps of the scientific method, accompanied by their definitions. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their knowledge in psychology research methodologies.