Practice Test: Research Methods and Measurement

What is the purpose of multigroup designs in experiments involving independent variables?

• To simplify the experimental process.

• To detect non-linear relationships between variables.

• To limit the number of independent variables.

In survey research, what is a construct?

• A tangible measurement tool.

• The abstract idea, underlying theme, or subject matter that researchers wish to measure.

• A type of operational definition.

How is the dependent variable (DV) measured in the Milkshake Experiment?

• Through self-report data.

• Measuring levels of the ghrelin hormone associated with feelings of hunger.

• Observing participants' behavior.

What is one reason participants may not respond truthfully on surveys?

• Social desirability.

• Lack of self-knowledge.

• Both a and b.

Provide an example of an operational definition.

• Defining aggression as shouting at a certain volume.

• Defining aggression as the feeling of anger.

• Defining aggression as a concept in psychology.

What is the difference between theoretical and operational definitions?

• Theoretical definitions focus on the underlying idea, while operational definitions specify the operations needed to measure or manipulate a concept.

• Theoretical definitions are more practical, while operational definitions are more abstract.

• Theoretical definitions are only found in dictionaries, while operational definitions are used in experiments.

Why are open-ended questions not used frequently in survey research?

• They require a lot of time to analyze.

• They don't provide easy empirical scores.

• They often lead to biased responses.

How can dependent variables be measured?

• Only through behavioral responses.

• Self-report, physical response, or behavioral response.

• Only through physical responses.

From Asch's (1955) experiment, what was observed regarding the impact of the number of confederates on conformity?

• Increasing the number of confederates consistently increased conformity.

• The impact of confederates on conformity stopped quickly, showing a non-linear trend.

• The more confederates, the less conformity observed.

How can researchers address acquiescence bias in surveys?

• Include more agree-type questions.

• Include reverse-coded items.

• Avoid self-report data.