Research A2 Flashcards
(10 cards)
CAT scans description:
A set of x-rays combined together to form 2D or 3D images of the area of the brain that is being scanned. Before x-ray is taken, radioactive dye is injected into ppt, they are then placed in cyndrical CAT scan machine.
CAT scans use a series of x-ray beams, passed through the head, creating cross-sectional images of the brain, showing structure, not activity.
CAT Scans Strengths:
- Can show structures of the brain that may appear to be abnormal
High quality imaging; better than produced by X-ray alone.
CAT Scans Weaknesses:
- Can only show researchers structure of brain, not eletrical activity
- Exposure to radiation: more detailed the scan is, more radiation person is exposed to
PET Scans Description:
Person is given a radioactive glucose (sugar)
Areas of the brain which appear to be the most active will require more glucose
Detectors in the scanners will highlight the most active areas of the brain, allowing in-depth images of what brain activity looks like.
PET Scans Strength:
Only PET scans can show researchers what brain activity looks like
useful for psychological research as can show what areas of the brain are most active.
PET Scans Weakness:
High costs to run and maintain
Not as precise as scans such as MRI
Longditunal Research Description:
A method of conducting research over a long period of time to observe long-term effects of X on specific behaviours. May utilise other methods e.g- case studies and interviews. Participants are commonly assessed on 2 or more occasions. Allows researchers to look into any long-term effects.
Longtidunal Research: Strengths
- Same participant tested numerous times so controls for ppt variables
- Developing trends can be identified easily as tests are repeated regularly and findings are compared.
Longtidunal Research: Weaknesses
- High drop out rate as research takes so long. As a result sample is smaller which could be biased.
- Time consuming
Cross-Sectional Description:
A method of anal
