2.2 Approaches to Research Flashcards
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What are the different research methods used by psychologists?
Observational techniques, case studies, naturalistic observation, surveys, archival research, and experiments
Each method has unique strengths and weaknesses.
What is a strength of case studies?
They provide a deep understanding of individuals and particular phenomena
Case studies allow for rich qualitative data but may not generalize well.
What is a limitation of survey research?
Data collected is subject to self-report biases and limited information
Participants may lie or misremember when answering questions.
What is the difference between longitudinal and cross-sectional research?
Longitudinal studies track the same individuals over time while cross-sectional studies compare different individuals at one point in time.
What does correlational research allow researchers to do?
Identify relationships between two or more variables
However, it cannot establish causation.
True or False: Experimental research allows for claims of causation.
True
Causation can only be established through controlled experiments.
What is naturalistic observation?
Observing behavior in its natural setting without interference
This method enhances ecological validity.
What are some challenges of naturalistic observation?
Difficult to control, requires significant time and may not capture behavior
Researchers may miss behavior due to lack of control over the environment.
What is a potential issue with observer bias?
Observers may unconsciously skew their observations based on expectations
Clear criteria and multiple observers can help mitigate this.
What is a measure of central tendency?
Mode, median, and mean
These measures summarize typical responses in survey data.
What is archival research?
Research using existing records to find patterns or relationships
It does not require interaction with research participants.
What is the main benefit of using surveys in research?
Ability to collect data from larger samples
Larger samples improve generalizability.
Fill in the blank: The __________ is the most frequently occurring response in data.
mode
What are the implications of studying case studies involving unique individuals, like conjoined twins?
They provide insights into rare phenomena but may limit generalizability to the larger population
Unique cases can yield valuable information but are not representative.
In the Strange Situation, what is primarily observed?
The infant’s behavior upon being reunited with the caregiver
This helps characterize the infant’s attachment style.
What can affect the accuracy of self-reported data in surveys?
Social desirability bias, misremembering, and lying
Participants may alter responses to appear more favorable.
True or False: Naturalistic observation can only be conducted with human subjects.
False
It can also be applied to animal behavior studies.
What is archival research?
A research approach that uses existing records to answer research questions
Archival research relies on past records to identify patterns or relationships.
What types of records might a researcher use in archival research?
Academic records, medical records, government documents, historical data
For example, analyzing college enrollment records to study degree completion.
What is a key characteristic of archival research?
The researcher never directly interacts with research participants.
What is a disadvantage of archival research?
Researchers have no control over the originally collected information.
What are two types of longitudinal research?
Repeated measures over time, long-term studies
Longitudinal research involves testing the same individuals repeatedly over an extended period.
What is cross-sectional research?
A research method that compares multiple segments of the population at the same time.
How does longitudinal research differ from cross-sectional research?
Longitudinal research follows the same individuals over time, while cross-sectional research compares different age groups at one point in time.
