PSY 2020 Final Exam Review

1. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a good theory?

• support by data

• cannot be falsified

• as simple as possible (parsimony)

• open to modification

2. What is the role of data analysis in the scientific method?

• To collect raw data and create initial hypotheses.

• To conduct experiments and observe outcomes.

• To test hypotheses and determine the probability of their support.

• To prove hypotheses and eliminate the need for further research.

In hypothesis testing, what does the null hypothesis represent?

• A prediction that the observed effect is significant and not due to chance.

• A claim that there is no difference, and any observed effect is likely due to randomness.

• The alternative theory that supports the research hypothesis.

• A definitive statement proving the research hypothesis correct.

Which of the following describes the "Theory-Then-Research" approach to scientific investigation?

•  Collecting data without any prior theory in mind.

•  Developing a theory, deriving propositions from it, and testing them empirically.

• Observing phenomena, analyzing patterns, and creating a theory afterward.

• Focusing on practical problem-solving without theoretical guidance.

5. Translational research is best described as:

• Research conducted solely in real-world settings.

• The process of translating hypotheses into empirical propositions.

•  Applying basic research findings to develop treatment or intervention strategies.

• The investigation of phenomena without practical implications.

Which statement BEST differentiates qualitative from quantitative research methodologies?

• Qualitative research captures subjective experiences, whereas quantitative research involves objective measurements that rely on statistical inference.

• Quantitative research emphasizes narrative descriptions, while qualitative research applies structured, numerical methodologies.

• Qualitative methods require experimental control, unlike quantitative approaches, which prioritize observation.

• Mixed methods research eliminates the distinctions between qualitative and quantitative approaches entirely.

7. Which of the following MOST accurately describes the primary focus of basic research?

• Developing scalable solutions to complex societal problems.
  

• Enhancing the understanding of fundamental principles without immediate practical application.

• Creating interdisciplinary models that directly translate into intervention strategies.

• Demonstrating the superiority of empirical methods over theoretical constructs.

1. The closer an R-value is to which of the following, the stronger and more "perfect" the relationship between variables?

• 0

• ±0.5

•  ±1

•  ±2

2. Which criterion for establishing causality is MOST directly challenged by the "third variable problem"?

• Temporal precedence

• Covariation between variables

• Internal validity (non spuriousness)

• Construct validity

3. In confidence intervals, what does a broader range typically indicate, and under what condition is it more commonly observed?

• Higher precision, larger sample sizes

• Higher precision, smaller sample sizes

• Lower precision, larger sample sizes

• Lower precision, smaller sample sizes