Planning Psychological Research

Question 1

Aim: Definition

Answer 1

The aim of research is a general statement on the overall purpose of the study, providing broad statement of intent without specific predictions.

Question 2

Null hypothesis: definition

Answer 2

A null hypothesis is the assumption of no relationship or correlation between the variables.

Question 3

Directional hypothesis: definition

Answer 3

States the predicted direction of relationship between 2 variables, or the predicted direction of difference between the 2 groups or conditions.

Question 4

Non directional hypothesis: definition

Answer 4

Predicts a difference in 2 groups or conditions, but odes not state a predicted direction of this difference.

Question 5

Independent variable: definition

Answer 5

The variable which is directly manipulated by the experimenter in order to test its effect.

Question 6

Dependent variable: definition

Answer 6

The variable which is measured by the experimenter.

Question 7

Confounding variables: definition

Answer 7

Any variable which varies systematically with the independent variable which could affect the DV, confounding results.

Question 8

Extraneous variables: definition

Answer 8

Do not vary systematically with IV, are nuisance variables which can make it more difficult to detect effect of IV.

Question 9

Operationalisation: definition

Answer 9

Process of defining variables in a way which makes them measurable for research.