Psychology Research Terms

Front

case study

Back

In-depth examination of an individual or small group over an extended period, often using a variety of data sources such as interviews, observations, and psychological tests.

Front

confounding variable

Back

A variable other than the independent variable that could potentially influence the dependent variable, leading to inaccurate interpretations of the results.

Front

control group

Back

The group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment or intervention, used for comparison with the experimental group.

Front

correlation

Back

A statistical measure of the relationship between two variables, indicating how they change together. However, correlation does not imply causation.

Front

debriefing

Back

The process of providing participants with information about the purpose, procedures, and results of a research study after their participation, especially if deception was used.

Front

dependent variable

Back

The variable that is measured or observed in an experiment and is expected to change as a result of the manipulation of the independent variable.

Front

double-blind procedure

Back

An experimental procedure in which both the participants and the researchers involved are unaware of who is assigned to the experimental or control group, reducing bias.

Front

effect size

Back

A measure of the strength or magnitude of the relationship between variables or the magnitude of a treatment effect, independent of sample size.

Front

experiment

Back

A research method in which one or more variables are manipulated to observe the effect on another variable, while controlling for extraneous factors.

Front

experimental group

Back

The group in an experiment that is exposed to the treatment or intervention being studied.