research methods Flashcards
(26 cards)
What is the primary purpose of psychological research?
To understand, explain, predict, and control behavior and mental processes.
True or False: A hypothesis is a testable prediction about the relationship between two or more variables.
True
Fill in the blank: The __________ method involves manipulating one variable to determine its effect on another variable.
experimental
What is a control group?
A group that does not receive the experimental treatment and is used for comparison.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a type of research design? A) Descriptive B) Correlational C) Experimental D) Conclusive
D) Conclusive
What does the term ‘operational definition’ refer to?
A specific description of how a variable will be measured or manipulated in a study.
True or False: Correlational studies can establish cause-and-effect relationships.
False
What is the purpose of random assignment in experiments?
To ensure that each participant has an equal chance of being assigned to any group, reducing bias.
Fill in the blank: In a __________ study, researchers observe and record behavior without manipulating any variables.
descriptive
Multiple Choice: Which research method involves in-depth study of a single individual or group? A) Case study B) Survey C) Experiment D) Observation
A) Case study
What is a survey in psychological research?
A method of gathering data by asking people questions about their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors.
True or False: Longitudinal studies follow the same group of individuals over a period of time.
True
What does ‘external validity’ refer to?
The extent to which findings from a study can be generalized to real-world settings.
Fill in the blank: __________ validity refers to the extent to which a study measures what it claims to measure.
Construct
Multiple Choice: Which type of data collection method uses a systematic approach to gather information from a sample? A) Ethnography B) Experiment C) Survey D) Case study
C) Survey
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative research?
Qualitative research focuses on understanding concepts and experiences, while quantitative research focuses on measuring variables and statistical analysis.
True or False: A double-blind study is one in which neither the participants nor the experimenters know who is in the treatment or control group.
True
What is the main advantage of using a placebo in experiments?
To control for the effects of participants’ expectations on the outcome.
Fill in the blank: __________ sampling involves selecting participants based on specific characteristics or criteria.
Purposive
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a limitation of case studies? A) They provide in-depth information B) They are time-consuming C) They can be generalized D) They involve multiple participants
B) They are time-consuming
What does ‘confounding variable’ mean?
An external variable that can affect the outcome of an experiment, leading to inaccurate conclusions.
True or False: Ethical guidelines in psychological research are designed to protect participants from harm.
True
What is informed consent?
The process of providing potential participants with information about a study so they can make an informed decision about their participation.
Fill in the blank: __________ research examines the relationships between variables, without manipulating them.
Correlational
