1.3.4 Watson + Rayner Evaluation Flashcards
(14 cards)
What type of observation was used in the study?
methodology
controlled observation
What specific environment was the study conducted in?
methodology
A controlled setting—a dark room.
What is one advantage of using a controlled observation?
methodology
high levels of control to reduce the chance of extraneous variables affecting the results.
What is one disadvantage of the controlled setting?
methodology
It lacks ecological validity, making it harder to generalise the findings to real life.
How many participants were in the study?
sample
only one - Little Albert
What conclusion did Watson and Rayner make about Albert’s fear of rats?
sample
That he developed a phobia due to the association between the rat and a loud noise.
Why is this conclusion not definitive?
sample
There was no control group to compare with; fear may have developed without conditioning.
Why was a motion picture camera used during the study?
procedure
To allow future psychologists to review the original footage and assess the study’s validity.
What’s the benefit of filming the procedure?
procedure
It makes the study replicable and allows others to test its reliability.
How were extraneous variables controlled?
Through the use of a laboratory environment and baseline control conditions.
What object was used as a control condition?
procedure
wooden blocks
What did the use of wooden blocks demonstrate?
procedure
That Albert’s fear response was specific to furry objects, not all objects.
Why does having a baseline control increase scientific validity?
procedure
It shows that the fear response can be attributed to conditioning, not other factors.
NEED ALT. EVIDENCE
