research basics
factors that can change and be measured in a study
variables
method that observes behavior in its natural environment
naturalistic observation
The variable that is manipulated by the researcher.
independent variable
Numerical data used to organize and analyze research results.
statistics
The entire group a researcher wants to study.
population
A well-supported explanation for observations
theory
Method that collects self-reported data from participants.
survey of questionnaire
The variable that is measured in an experiment.
dependent variable
Three measures of central tendency.
mean, median, mode
A smaller group selected from a population.
sample
a testable prediction derived from a theory
hypothesis
An in-depth investigation of one individual or small group.
case study
Group that receives the experimental treatment.
experimental group
Measure that shows the relationship between two variables.
correlation
The process of selecting participants from a population.
sampling
the organized steps psychologists use to study behavior and mental processes
steps of scientific investigation
Research method that allows cause-and-effect conclusions.
experiment
Group that does not receive the treatment.
the control group
Number that indicates strength and direction of a relationship.
corrrelation coefficient
A sample that accurately represents the population.
representative sample
a group of detailed procedures used to answer a research question
scientific investigtion
Research method that examines relationships without manipulation.
correlational research
When a researcher’s expectations influence results.
experimenter bias
When two variables are related but one does not cause the other.
correlation without causation
When a sample does not accurately represent the population.
sampling bias