Steps of Scientific Research
Surveys, Samples, and Populations
Methods of Observation
Experimentation
Ethical Issues in Psychology
100
What is the first step of scientific research?
research question
100
What are two ways to conduct surveys?
1. Have participants fill out questionnaires. 2. Interview participants orally.
100
What is an example of the testing method?
a personality test; IQ test; aptitude test
100
What is a limitation of the experimental method?
The conditions created in an experiment may not accurately reflect conditions in real life.
100
True or False? Researchers may conduct an experiment harmful to humans.
True. Researchers should aim to avoid harming humans; however, the APA recognizes that some short term effects are necessary for useful information. In these experiments, the human must sign a form of consent.
200
According to your notes, psychologists or researchers come up with research questions based on...
(a) everyday experiences and common sense, (b) other research studies, and (c) other psychological theories.
200
What kind of population should researchers consider to achieve accurate results?
target population
200
What is the difference between a case study and a longitudinal study?
In both studies, researchers observe patients for a long period of time; however, a case study focuses on an individual or small group of people, while a longitudinal study focuses on a group of people.
200
What is the difference between a single-blind study and a double-blind study?
In a single-blind study, only the participants are unaware of whether they are in the control group or experimental group; in a double-blind study, both the participants and researchers are unaware of who is in the control group and experimental group.
200
When is it acceptable for psychologists to break their patients' confidentiality?
It is rarely acceptable, and it is only in a case where the psychologist believes the patient may hurt him/herself or another individual.
300
define constructs
Constructs are ideas that cannot be seen or measured directly.
300
Surveys may not always be accurate. What are the two reasons (that we mentioned in class) for them not being accurate?
Participants may feel that their answers will not be kept confidential, and participants may complete a survey without any thought or effort.
300
According to your notes, what is the least reliable method of observation?
cross-sectional method
300
Describe the two types of variables.
Independent variables can be manipulated by the researchers; dependent variables are factors that depend on the independent variable.
300
Currently, what does the code of ethics say about research with animals?
It is acceptable, but controversial.
400
When is a hypothesis considered correct?
A hypothesis is considered correct when it has been proven through scientific research.
400
Define stratified sample.
Sample in which subgroups of a population are represented proportionally.
400
What is the critical period theory?
A particular period in a person's life that allows him or her to learn language and speak.
400
Controlled experiments include a(n) _______________ and a(n) _______________ .
experimental group; control group
400
What is the name of Ms. Orzel's dog?
Louie!
500
Why is it important to replicate experimentation?
Findings may be a random occurrence; replication ensures that the results are the same every time.
500
According to your textbook (let's see if you read!), when is a random sample most accurate?
when there are about 1,500 participants
500
Name all six methods of observation according to our text book.
The Testing Method; The Case Study Method; The Longitudinal Method; The Cross-Sectional Method; The Naturalistic-Observation Method; The Laboratory-Observation Method
500
Define standard deviation.
A measure of distance of every score to the mean. The larger the standard deviation the more spread out the score are.
500
What three reasons does the APA give for deception?
1. They believe that the benefits outweigh the harm. 2. Individuals would have been willing to participate if they understood the research benefits. 3. When participants receive an explanation afterwards.
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