Research methods review

What is the scientific method, and why is it important in psychology?

• A set of psychological theories

• A systematic approach to understanding behavior and mental processes

• A collection of historical case studies

• A philosophical approach to understanding human nature

Define a hypothesis and give an example related to psychology.

• A tentative explanation; e.g., "Higher caffeine intake leads to increased anxiety."

• A proven fact; e.g., "Caffeine causes anxiety

• A common belief; e.g., "Everyone knows caffeine causes anxiety."

• A personal opinion; e.g., "I believe caffeine causes anxiety."

Explain the difference between independent and dependent variables

• The dependent variable causes changes in the independent variable.

• The independent variable causes changes in the dependent variable.

• They are two names for the same variable.

• They are unrelated in research.

What is random sampling, and why is it important in research?

• Selecting participants based on a predetermined criteria; it ensures a diverse sample.

• Selecting participants by chance; it helps prevent bias in the sample.

• Selecting participants based on their willingness to participate; it saves time.

• Selecting participants based on their characteristics; it ensures a representative sample.

Describe the placebo effect and how it can influence research outcomes.

• The placebo effect is when participants guess the true purpose of the study, affecting their behavior.

• The placebo effect is when participants experience real change due to an experimental treatment.

• The placebo effect is when participants' expectations or beliefs influence their behavior or perception.

• The placebo effect is when researchers manipulate data to fit their hypothesis.

What is a double-blind study, and why is it used in psychological research?

• It's a study where participants are deceived about the study's purpose; it increases validity.

• It's a study where neither the participants nor the researchers know who is in the control group; it prevents bias.

• It's a study where the researcher has multiple hypotheses; it increases reliability.

• It's a study where participants are told they are in the treatment group; it increases motivation.

Define operational definitions and provide an example.

• A way to keep research findings confidential; e.g., "Participants' names will not be disclosed."

• A set of procedures and measurements used in research; e.g., "Happiness will be measured using a 10-point scale."

• A summary of research findings; e.g., "The study found a positive correlation."

• A set of ethical guidelines for research; e.g., "Participants must give informed consent."

Explain the concept of reliability and give an example in psychological measurement.

• Reliability refers to the accuracy of a measurement; e.g., a ruler that consistently measures the same length.

• Reliability refers to the validity of a measurement; e.g., a thermometer that measures temperature accurately.

• Reliability refers to the honesty of participants in a study; e.g., participants answering survey questions truthfully.

• Reliability refers to the use of random sampling in research; e.g., selecting participants by chance.

What is validity in research, and why is it crucial?

• Validity refers to the consistency of research findings; it's not very important in psychology.

•  Validity refers to the ability of a research study to measure what it is intended to measure; it's essential for drawing accurate conclusions.

• Validity refers to the ethical considerations in research; it's crucial for participant safety.

• Validity refers to the use of descriptive statistics in research; it helps summarize data.

Describe the differences between cross-sectional and longitudinal studies.

• Cross-sectional studies involve studying the same group of people over an extended period, while longitudinal studies involve studying different groups at one point in time.

• Cross-sectional studies involve studying different groups of people at different points in time, while longitudinal studies involve studying the same group over an extended period.

• Cross-sectional studies and longitudinal studies are two terms for the same research design.

• Cross-sectional studies involve studying animals, while longitudinal studies involve studying humans.