Research methods- Is Psychology a Science?

Question 1

Constructing a theory

Answer 1

set of general laws/ principles that have the ability to explain particular events or behaviours

Question 2

Induction phase

Answer 2

-Carry out detailed observations in area of interest
-Identify any patterns from data collected
-Suggest possible explanations for patterns by generating theory will account for observations

Question 3

Why is theory construction a major feature of science?

Answer 3

-Enables predictions which can be turned into hypothesis (tested empirically)
-Data obtained can support/reject/refine original theory
-Allows theory construction/ progress testing through scientific cycle of enquiry

Question 4

Deduction phase

Answer 4

Scientific cycle of enquiry
1- Generate hypothesis to test theory element
2- Carry out research controlled/objective way (replicable)
3- Analyse results/draw conclusions (support/refute)
4- New knowledge validated through replication/peer review
5- Research supported/refuted/modification
6- Undertake further research in light of new findings
E.g. Milgram/Bickman

Question 5

Falsifiable

Answer 5

-Karl Popper= key criteria of scientific theory
-Theory should be hypothesis tested/ possibility of being wrong; even if repeatably tested still may not be true just not proven wrong yet
-Reason behind lack of ‘this proves’ in psychology+ null/alternative hypothesis
-Theory cannot be scientific unless admits possibility of being proven wrong
-Not falsifiable= Freuds theory of unconscious mind (pseudoscience)
-Falsifiable= Ainsworth’s Strange situation (looked at in different country)

Question 6

Paradigm

Answer 6

-Set of shared assumptions/ agreed methods within scientific discipline
-Kuhn= separate sciences/non-sciences
-Psychology= pre-science, too much internal disagreement/ conflicting approaches
-Scientific revolution= big change in dominant unifying theory
-E.g. Maguire et al

Question 7

Empirical method

Answer 7

-Observations/ experiments based on sensory/physical experiences, not just relying on thoughts/beliefs
-Believes only physically observed behaviours should be studied
-E.g. Zimbardo (experiment)

Question 8

Objectivity

Answer 8

-Conducting research in controlled/ unbiased way
-Process not influenced by personal feelings
-E.g. Loftus and Palmer

Question 9

Replicability

Answer 9

-Ability to repeat piece of research
-Falsifiability
-Replicated= Ainsworth’s Strange Situation/ Van lijzendoorn and Kroonenberg
-Not Replicated= Phineas Gage, unique