Research July 2025

The degree to which the results of a particular standardized test actually correspond to what the test is measuring is known as:

• Internal validity

• Concurrent validity

• Social validity

• Predictive validity

Answer explanation

Internal validity refers to the extent to which a test accurately measures what it is intended to measure. It ensures that the results are a true reflection of the construct being assessed, making it the correct choice.

Which research method requires careful attention to word selection?

• Randomized controlled trial

• Observational study

• Clinical trial

• Survey

Answer explanation

Surveys require careful attention to word selection because the phrasing of questions can significantly influence respondents' answers, potentially affecting the validity of the data collected.

Who of the following psychologists was extremely influential in advancement of the intelligence test?

• Elizabeth Loftus

• Henry Murray

• Alfred Adler

• David Wechsler and Alfred Binet

Answer explanation

David Wechsler and Alfred Binet were pivotal in developing intelligence tests. Binet created the first practical intelligence test, while Wechsler developed scales that are widely used today, making them key figures in this field.

In program evaluation, the first thing you might do is:

• Determine the appraisal process

• Plan the program's goals

• Gather information

• Create an appropriate research design

Answer explanation

In program evaluation, planning the program's goals is essential as it sets the direction and objectives for the evaluation process. This step precedes gathering information and designing research, making it the first action.

Which of the following is an example of a interval scale?

• Fahrenheit degrees

• Class rank

• Clothing brand

• Reaction time

Answer explanation

Fahrenheit degrees represent an interval scale because they have equal intervals between values, allowing for meaningful comparisons. Unlike class rank or clothing brand, they do not have a true zero point.

A university psychology professor seeks to verify that her test is a fair representation of material covered during the semester. What is the professor assessing?

• Content validity

• Alternate-form reliability

• Discriminant validity

• Split-half reliability

Answer explanation

The professor is assessing content validity, which ensures that the test accurately reflects the material covered in the course. This type of validity confirms that the test measures what it is intended to measure.

In an experiment to see if location has an effect on recall, there is a group in which students learn the words in one location and recall them in the same location. In the other group, the students learn words in a classroom and are asked to recall them in the gymnasium. What would you call the second group?

• The experimental group

• The independent variable

• The control group

• The exposure group

Answer explanation

The second group, where students learn in one location and recall in another, is called the experimental group. This group is tested to see the effect of location on recall, contrasting with the control group that learns and recalls in the same place.

You have researched the effects of hypnosis vs. autogenics as treatment for posttraumatic stress on male and female Gulf War soldiers. Which technique will you use to properly analyze your data from this study?

• Within-subjects design

• ANOVA

• Two-way analysis of variance

• Factor analysis

Answer explanation

The two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) is appropriate here as it allows for the examination of the effects of two independent variables (hypnosis vs. autogenics and gender) on the dependent variable (PTSD treatment outcomes).

Kelly decides to research her psychology project by going through old newspaper articles, magazines, and even journals of the individuals involved. What is the term for this?

• Archival analysis

• Documentarian research

• Historical balance

• Incidental conclusions

Answer explanation

The term 'archival analysis' refers to the research method where historical documents, such as newspapers and journals, are examined to gather information. Kelly's approach aligns perfectly with this definition.

Which two attributes have a positive correlation?

• Schizophrenia and the need for social activity

• Fear and the need for social activity

• Anxiety and the need for social activity

• Clinical depression and the need for social activity

Answer explanation

Fear and the need for social activity are positively correlated, as individuals experiencing fear often seek social interaction for support and reassurance, enhancing their social engagement.