category 1
an evidence-based method that draws on observation and experimentation
empirical approach
the arithmetic average of a distribution, obtained by adding the scores and then dividing by the number of scores
mean
the science of behavior and mental processes
psychology
pure science that aims to increase the scientific knowledge base
basic research
a testable prediction, often implied by a theory
hypothesis
perceiving a relationship where none exists, or perceiving a stronger-than-actual relationship
illusory correlation
a computed measure of how much scores vary around the mean score
standard deviation
thinking that does not automatically accept arguments and conclusions
critical thinking
all those in a group being studied, from which random samples may be taken
population
the factor that is manipulated; the variable whose effect is being studied
independent variable
an early school of thought promoted by Wundt and Titchener; used introspection to reveal the structure of the human mind
structuralism
the tendency to believe, after learning an outcome, that one would have foreseen it
hindsight bias
a statistical index of the relationship between two things (from -1.00 to +1.00)
correlation coefficient
an integrated approach that incorporates biological, psychological, and social-cultural levels of analysis
biopsychosocial approach
a symmetrical, bell-shaped curve that describes the distribution of many types of data
normal curve
the interdisciplinary study of the brain activity linked with cognition
cognitive neuroscience
a research design that examines how individuals develop by studying the same sample over a long period of time
longitudinal study
an experimental procedure in which both the research staff and participants are ignorant about whether the participants have received the treatment or placebo
double-blind procedure
a graphed cluster of dots, each of which represents the values of two variables
scatterplot
a study method incorporating five steps–survey, question, read, retrieve, review
sq3r
testing effect
enhanced memory after retrieving, rather than simply rereading, information; also referred to as a retrieval practice effect or test-enhanced learning
debriefing
the post experimental explanation of a study, including its purpose and any deceptions, to its participants
case study
a descriptive technique in which one individual or group is studied in depth in the hope of revealing universal principles
random assignment
assigning participants to experimental and control groups by chance, thus minimizing preexisting differences between different groups
control group
the group not exposed to the treatment