Researcher Methods Flashcards
(16 cards)
What is our research Methods on
Correlation
Why are correlations used
See if a relationship between two or more variables exists but these variables are not controlled by researchers
How do we represent a correlational graph
data for 2 variables are collected
plot on a scatter graph
1 variables on X and 1 on Y axis
Positive correlation
One variable increases the other variable increases
Negative correlation
One variable increases other variable decrease
What is the rule for correlational
Correlation doesn’t imply causation
Due to many intervening variables that can affect both
Strength of correlation
Useful for prior analysis
If there’s no correlation between two covariables , no potential cause effect relation ship
If there is correlation , potential cause effect relationship
Therefore justifies an experiments prior to carrying out
Weakness of correlation
Correlation only shows relationship between two variables
We don’t know which of the variables is cause and which is effect
Therefore doesn’t provide a enough reason for why connection exists in the first place
Structural imaging
Still images of the brain
Functional imaging
Shows what the brain is doing which sides are more active
CAT scan
What it is
What It does
Risk
Give static 3D xray imaging of complex angles of the brain in high details
It measures areas of the brain that are damaged
X Ray radiation
PET scan
What it is
What It does
Risk
Injected with FDG
Radioactive tracer that binds to glucose molecules
Active cells use more glucose > will be brighter
Low risk
FMRI
What it is
What It does
Risk
Expose brain to magnetic field
Blood cell with oxygen repel the magnetic field > more active
Measure by a computer
More oxygen > more active brain
Risk: Ppl who have metal implants can’t use them
Strength of FMRI/ pet / overall brain scan
Indicate the specific areas of brain involved in an experience
Provide evidence of localisation of function in the brain when ppts are doing tasks ie lower glucose active in frontal lobe in self control task in ppts
Or high oxygen usage in amygdala when ppts are being aggressive
Weakness of pet /mri/ overall brain scan
Low Mundane realism
Computer tasks / pressing buttons
Doesn’t reflect real aggression as ppts arent angry
Readings don’t reflect real life brain activity
For example screaming at ur mom because she told you do ur hw
Strength and weakness of CAT
S: very quick to showing accurate details of the brain structure
Quality of images can show structural damages to lead to better understanding of that area
W: only provide structural info limited use to researcher for linking brain areas to specific behaviours as it can’t tell us brain function
